Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann has kicked off in Belfast for the very first time. The eight-day festival, which runs until 9 August, is the world's largest celebration of Irish music and culture. There are more than 200 events planned across the city, with live music sessions, storytelling, interactive workshops, dance classes and family fun days featuring in the programme. The Fleadh's main outdoor stage, the Gig Rig, is located outside Belfast City Hall. As well as core events, external the city centre the fringe programme, external will feature more than 90 community events with family-focused gatherings taking place in neighbourhood venues across Belfast.