Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann arrives in Belfast today (2 August), bringing eight days of traditional music, culture and celebration to the city, with organisers expecting up to 800,000 visitors over the course of the festival. More than 200 events and 180 traditional music competitions are taking place across venues, streets and neighbourhoods throughout the week-long celebration. The landmark festival showcases the very best of Irish culture, with a packed programme of All-Ireland competitions, concerts, community events and performances from both established and emerging artists. As Ireland's only UNESCO City of Music, Belfast provides a fitting backdrop for the world-renowned event. At the heart of the festivities is the Gig Rig, the Fleadh's flagship outdoor stage set against the iconic backdrop of Belfast City Hall.