President of Ireland Catherine Connolly will officially open the Galway International Arts Festival this evening.
The two-week festival kicks off today, 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.
The official opening at The Galmont Hotel at 5PM today will be followed by the opening performance of circus spectacular Carnation from NoFit State at Nimmo's Pier.
