IRISH language rappers Kneecap will take to the Falls Park stage for a much-anticipated ‘Uppa Falls’ charity gig on Thursday night.
The huge Féile an Phobail concert will see a line-up of special guests including Young Spencer and Bob Vylan.
All profits will go to two Irish language projects Glór na Móna’s Croí na Carraige Irish language youth and community hub in West Belfast, and Seán Dolans GAA Club Irish language hub in Derry.
Here are some of the other main events on Thursday:
11am-7pm - Palestine Day (St Mary's University College) - featuring a talk from Romana Rubeo (managing editor of the Palestine Chronicle), Hands Up Project Poetry from children in Gaza with live link up for Q&A, Palestinian lunch, Wieland Hoban (founding member of Global and European Jews for Palestine) and book launch of 'Before the Flood', a Gaza family memoir by Ramzy Baroud.
3pm - The Catalpa Rescue: The Greatest Escape In Irish History (St Mary's University College) - This year marks the 150th anniversary of one of Irish history’s boldest prison breaks. In 1876, a small crew of Irish and American Fenians, masterminded by John Devoy, sailed a humble whaling ship across three oceans to snatch six prisoners from Fremantle Jail right under the British Empire’s nose. A thrilling one hour rollercoaster ride of secret plans, huge risks and narrow escapes, powered by “Irish skill and pluck and Yankee grit” told by independent historian Marcus Howard.
3.30pm - Scribes At The West (West Club) - featuring Leslie Wilson, Séamas O’Reilly, Wendy Erskine and Anna Carey.
5.30pm- Annual James Connolly Lecture (St Mary's University College) - given by Eddie Dempsey, General Secretary of the National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers (RMT).
7pm - Twilight Evening of Poetry, Songs and Stories of Resistance (Roddy McCorley Heritage Centre) - This year’s theme is Irish unity and the land that holds us. Hosted by the Roddy McCorley Society and Siobhán McCallin with special guest readers. This is an open mic session and those wishing to participate can submit a poem, song or excerpt in advance.
8pm - Aoife Scott Live in Concert (St Comgalls) - Aoife Scott is one of the most compelling voices in contemporary Irish folk. Hailing from Dublin and born into the legendary Black Family, she carries a rich musical heritage. As the city comes alive for Fleadh Cheoil, this concert promises to be a special night of music and storytelling.
