County Meath gave a warm welcome to 32 Irish and International Roses who visited Meath as part of the International Rose Tour last Wednesday and Thursday, hosted by Meath County Council.

The Roses experienced a jam-packed whistle stop tour of the county before hitting the road to Tralee for the Rose of Tralee International Festival 2023.

On Wednesday afternoon things got underway with the tour bus arriving at Newgrange Stone Age Passage Tomb, the jewel in the crown of Ireland's Ancient East, the 32 Roses then visited Emerald Park, Ireland’s only theme park and zoo, for a thrilling adventure before attending a gala ball that evening in Knightsbrook Hotel Spa & Golf Resort.  The next morning the Roses were treated to an authentic taste of Irish life on Causey Farm where they baked brown bread, had a céilí and enjoyed traditional farm life.

On the last stop of the tour, the Roses visited Meath County Council headquarters for an official welcome reception, entertainment was provided by Navan Silver Band and performance artists from Broken Theatre, food was served from a delicious menu featuring Boyne Valley Flavours and the Roses had the opportunity to meet with local food and drink producers as well as Meath Craft Makers.

Fiona Lawless, Chief Executive of Meath County Council said, “Meath County Council is thrilled to host this year's Rose Tour. It is so great to see all 32 Roses create memories and lasting friendships here in Meath. They soaked up the sun and had so much fun discovering the adventurous side of the County.  I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to the many local businesses who joined us in welcoming the Roses to Meath.”

Cathaoirleach of Meath County Council, Cllr. Tommy Reilly added “I want to congratulate and thank Brú na Bóinne, Emerald Park, Knightsbrook Hotel Spa & Golf Resort and Causey Farm who showcased the county wonderfully, creating a memorable tour for the Roses.  Meath is the birthplace of Halloween and host to the infamous Púca Halloween Festival, I welcome everyone back to Meath in October where the spirit of Púca comes alive!”