Could flower fest replace the Rose this August?

THIS year’s Rose of Tralee may have been cancelled but there may still be a festival in the county capital this August.

Under the roadmap for re-opening the country small festivals, involving crowds of less then 5,000 people, may be allowed from August 10.

Councillor Johnnie Wall has suggested running Tralee’s Féile na mBláth festival –which also fell victim to the Coronavirus lockdown – in lieu of the Rose of Tralee at the end of August.

While Féile na mBláth – which usually takes place in the Town Park in June – is far smaller than the Rose of Tralee Cllr Wall said it could bring a little happiness and life to the streets on what is normally the busiest week of the year in the town.

While any decision will depend entirely on Government instructions and public health advice management at Kerry County Council said they are “very supportive” of holding the event.

The weekend of August 22 has tentatively been pencilled in, with the date chosen as Birds Amusements are also hoping to come to Tralee around that time to run their traditional august funfair.

Bird’s decision will also be based on Government advice on outdoor events.

Mayor of Tralee Cllr Terry O’Brien said he has already discussed the idea of running Féile na mBláth in August with Council Chief Executive Moira Murrell and Tralee MD Manager Michael Scannell.

Council management said “a firm decision” will be made after the next phase of reopening which is scheduled for July 20.

Photo Domnick Walsh 2019 Kerry Rose Sally Ann Leahy with a young fan at last year’s Ballylongford Oyster Festival.