TODAY is the day - Marymass 2024 is set to officially get underway.

The famous Irvine festival will open later on tonight, Thursday, August 15, with the first event held to get the proceedings going in style.

The opening ceremony will get underway at 8pm outside the Townhouse with entertainment for everyone to enjoy.

Following this, the captain for this year's festival will be announced at around 9.40pm.

The race for captaincy is expected to be tight, with 2022 and 2023 captain Gordon Storrar up against Ronnie Robson for the title this time around.

Prior to this, a piper will lead the Carters to the Townhouse before the Royal Party are sashed.

Once Queen Millie Barnes and Marys Lauren Wyllie, Hannah Nelson, Autaum Robinson and Rebecca Lusby are welcomed into their roles, Marymass will officially be underway.

A festival spokesperson commented: "We hope to see as many of you there to help open the festivities in style!"

For the latest updates on events throughout the festival, these can be found on the Marymass festival Facebook page at facebook.com/marymassfestival.