RTE bosses have launched their search for young entertainers from Donegal to wow audiences for the Late Late Toy Show special.
In recent years, the nation has fallen in love with Donegal children who appeared on the show like last year’s star TJ McDaid, from Drumkeen; Charles Gallagher, from Castlefinn, in 2023; Jack Beattie, from Raphoe, in 2020; Finlay Sheridan, from Rathmullan, in 2019; and Bobby Gallagher, from Mountcharles, in 2018.
Toy Show host Patrick Kielty wants demonstrators, singers, dancers, performers, and wee characters.
He said: “The stars of the Toy Show have always been our amazing kids.
“And this year we’re looking forward to them shining brighter than ever.
“So if you want to dream big and show Ireland and the world what you’ve got, the adventure starts here.”
A Toy Show spokesperson said: “The countdown to the most wonderful night of the year has officially begun.
“Host Patrick Kielty is gearing up for another unforgettable Late Late Toy Show night, promising mischief, mayhem and magical moments.
“The Toy Show team has started the search in earnest to find the next generation of youngsters to feature on this year’s show.
“Do you know a child that has that special Toy Show sparkle? Whether they dream of demonstrating this year’s must-have toys, or stepping into the spotlight for a phenomenal performance – this is their chance to be part of one of the biggest TV spectacles of the year.”
RTE revealed that an TV “audience of 1.7 million across the weekend” watched the 2025 The Late Late Toy Show with “more than 300 children” lighting up the stage “with toy demonstrations, performances and book reviews”.
Applications for the upcoming Christmas spectacular opened last Friday and close on September 27.
Parents and guardians can submit applications via the official rte.ie website.
If selected from the digital application phase, auditions will be held at venues around the country.