BALLYSHANNON is preparing to rock out as the annual Rory Gallagher Festival swings back into town.

 

Now in its sixteenth year, the festival invites guitar enthusiasts and blues fans from all over the world to take up residence in south Donegal for four music-packed days.

 

From humble beginnings, the Rory Gallagher International Tribute Festival now attracts 10,000 fans annually.

 

Born at the Rock Hospital in Ballyshannon in 1948, Rory would have celebrated his 70th birthday on March 2 this year.

 

To mark what would have been a very special milestone for the man generally regarded as the greatest blues guitarist who ever lived, festival organisers have compiled a stunning line up of acts.

 

Things kick off this Thursday, May 31, at 2pm with Peter Price and Jed Thomas lighting things up at the Rory Gallagher statue.

 

The music continues throughout the day with a special panel discussion by Rory’s brother, Donal and special guests at 7pm in the Rory Gallagher Theatre.

 

Things get under way again at noon on Saturday with among the highlights of the day a performance by the mighty Johnny Gallagher and Boxtie.

 

The show rolls on into Sunday with music throughout the day, both on the streets, in the pubs and on the specially assembled stages and tents.

 

Sunday’s highlight has to be the Wilko Johnson Band who will play the Festival Big Top with gates opening at 7pm.

 

There is literally barely time to catch a breath as band after band after band steps up to celebrate the life of Rory Gallagher.

 

All open air concerts and pub gigs are free however tickets are required for many of the headline performances.

 

Speaking ahead of the opening night, a festival spokesperson said, “An inspirational musician to many but unique to us all, Rory Gallagher’s legacy is there for all to appreciate having started out with the showband ‘The Impact’ before establishing ‘Taste’. 

 

“He produced more than a dozen albums, devoting his entire life to music and his fans, selling over 30 million albums worldwide with his marathon tours and live performances winning him great acclaim. 

 

“We, the voluntary organising committee of the Rory Gallagher International Tribute Festival 2018, would like extend a special invitation to Rory’s fans worldwide to join us between Thursday May 31 and Sunday June 3 for what will be a unique tribute that will honour one of the greatest of all time.”

 

For all festival information, check out www.rorygallagherfestival.com.