President of Ireland Catherine Connolly officially opened the Galway International Arts Festival last evening.
The two-week festival is now underway, with a jam-packed programme of theatre, music, street spectacle and more.
Last year's festival brought in over 450 thousand attendees over the fortnight, while almost 500 people - representing 64 nationalities - volunteered.
President Connolly spoke at the official opening at The Galmont Hotel, speaking about the humble beginnings of the festival