US President Joe Biden has kicked-off his visit to Co Mayo with a trip to the Knock Shrine.
He broke down in tears earlier after a chance meeting with the priest who performed the last rites on his son Beau Biden, who died from brain cancer in 2015.
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President Biden will be in Ballina later, where he is to make a public address on the banks of the River Moy.
The Coronas, The Academic and The Chieftains will be among the musical acts to perform at the event.
A sign welcoming US President Joe Biden to Ballina, Co Mayo. Picture by: Barry WhyteUS Ambassador to Ireland, Claire Cronin, said this will be especially meaningful.
"The Chieftains played for President Biden when he visited Ireland in 2016," she said.
"This reunion of the band and President Biden will be an emotional one, since we lost the legendary Paddy Moloney in 2021.
"I am honoured to say that The Chieftains will reunite one last time in honour of President Biden and play together for the first time since Paddy's passing," she added.
My trip home to Ireland embodied céad míle fáilte – a hundred thousand welcomes.
It’s been great to see so many old friends and family – and make some new ones.
Like my Grandfather used to say: “If you're lucky enough to be Irish, you're lucky enough.” pic.twitter.com/cgXDMQkPRn— President Biden (@POTUS) April 14, 2023
The flags and bunting are out, the musicians are on the streets and crowds are gathering.
Ballina is ready to welcome President Biden to his ancestral home.
Some 20,000 people are expected to turn out to hear and see the US President.
The stage set up for US President Joe Biden's visit to Ballina, Co Mayo. Picture by: Barry WhyteLocal artist Leslie Lackey is hopeful that a mural he painted will catch Mr Biden's eye.
"It took, roughly, I'd say three days and three nights," he said.
"It was all hands on deck; it was a great atmosphere and we were very proud of it.
"He has roots here in the town, so we just wanted to give something back".
Asked if he is hopes the President will get a photo with his mural, he said: "Cross our fingers, that's what we're hoping".
One woman in the town said: "This is wonderful for Ballina, sure good Lord, it's huge".
"This is massive for the town.
"When President Biden was Vice-President seven years ago it was huge, but nothing like this," she added.
Annaleese and Angeline Ruddy wait to see US President Joe Biden in Ballina, Co Mayo. Picture by: Barry Whyte"It's putting Ballina on the map, and the north-west of Ireland on the map," one man said.
"It's just great publicity for the town".
President Biden will address the crowds at the local cathedral, before than going on a walkabout in the town centre.
He will then return to Dublin Airport later tonight, before flying back to the United States.
Reporting by Barry Whyte in Co Mayo
