The 17th annual Iowa Irish Fest kicks off today, Friday in Waterloo, Iowa.
The all things Irish extravaganza runs three days and will concluded on Sunday, August 6.
The opening ceremony is taking place at the Nagle Sign/KWWL Stage at 4 p.m. Friday.
According to a release, following the opening ceremony there will be "one of the largest Irish music and dance events in the Midwest, with 7 stages, 32 acts and over 75 performances."
This year's attractions include the three part "Guinness Experience" a number of whiskey workshops, the ShamRock N’ Fun Run takes place on August 5 at 10 a.m. and the "High Nelly Bike Rally," also on Saturday.
Added the release: "The Celtic Cruise Motorcycle Ride is a highly anticipated event during the Fest weekend. It starts at 10 a.m. on Sunday, August 6, at the Silver Eagle Harley-Davidson/Yamaha in Waterloo.
This year's Fest also feature a rugby invitational and in a nod to the Scottish cousins a "Highland Games" event.
And of course there will be music and Irish dance all weekend long with top groups taking the stage. The Fest will go on rain or shine, say organizers. More at www.iowairishfest.com.
