Today marks the first day of the St Patrick's Festival in Dublin which is returning to live events after the pandemic.
Actor John C Reilly is the international guest of honour at the Dublin parade.
The Chicago native said as an Irish American it was an honour to be invited.
He said he has worked and holidayed here before but that it feels particularly important to come at this time and let people know that Ireland is open for business again.
Artists have said they cannot wait to perform in front of a live crowd again.
Community artists were among those at the Guinness Storehouse this morning getting ready for tomorrow's parade in the capital.
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Organisers have promised the largest and most ambitious event ever produced, combining contemporary and traditional Irish arts.
New this year is a Festival Quarter located at Collins Barracks in Dublin, where music and arts events will take place throughout the festival.
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