The Rory Gallagher Festival is off to a fantastic start in Ballyshannon

The sun is beating down on the streets of Ballyshannon and music is filling the air as the Rory Gallagher Festival gets off to a fantastic start. 

The warm weather is really adding to the party atmosphere as the first of the live bands perform on outdoor stages around the town. There is also a packed programme of events in the town's bars as Rory Gallagher fans from around the world gather to honour one of the world's great guitar heroes in the town where he was born. 

Those heading to Ballyshannon for the annual Rory Gallagher Festival are in for a fantastic weekend of entertainment and festivities.

And it looks as if the weather is going to be perfect too, with dry and sunny conditions forecast for the long weekend.

Ballyshannon is the birthplace of the legendary blues guitarist who - somewhat prophetically - was born in the town’s Rock Hospital. This annual, four-day festival running from June 1 to 4 is a celebration not only of Rory Gallagher’s own music, but of the blues rock that he loved so much. It also shows the pride and esteem in which he is held in the Erneside town.

This year’s Rory Gallagher Festival features 30 acts on 15 stages over four days.

Acts for the ticketed concerts in the Big Top include Michael Schenker Group, Band of Friends, Eric Gales Band (USA), Pat McManus Band, Laurence Jones Band, Johnny Gallagher and The Boxtie Band, Bullfrog Taste Express (NL), Grainne Duffy Band, Zac Schulze Band and many more.

Throughout the weekend there will be free, non-stop open air concerts on the streets of Ballyshannon. Festival goers can also enjoy pub blues rock sessions, exhibitions and gigs at the Rory Gallagher statue in the heart of Ballyshannon. 

Further information and updates can be found on the festival website www.rorygallagherfestival.com

Don't forget to pack the sun cream!