President-elect Catherine Connolly is attending the official launch of Oireachtas na Samhna in Belfast.
She got a huge welcome at the event in the city's Waterfront Hall.
Around 10,000 people will attend events between today and Sunday.
An t-Oireachtas is a festival of Irish including competitions, lectures and book launches.
Deputy Lord Mayor of Belfast Paul Doherty said he was delighted to welcome guests to the city.
He said they had already brought "that incredible buzz".
