THE ANNUAL Stores Charlotte Street Music Festival kicks off this Friday night with a performance by Irish rockers Bi Polar Empire.

The festival, which has been running for a number of years now, welcomes a number of top artists to the town for a music packed weekend with all music events being free to the public.

All music takes place on Charlotte Street and there will be an open-air live broadcast by Today FM on Saturday afternoon with Phil Cawley.

The event has enjoyed massive success with a massive crowd packed into the area last year.

Organiser Andy Doyle said: “The weather is to pick up by the end of the week and all the events are free and easily accessible on the street so we’re looking forward to a great weekend.”

The line-up includes Michael Darcy and Bi Polar Empire from 8 p.m. on Friday.

On Saturday there will be a live broadcast by Phil Cawley from Today FM, music from Dave Clarke and Unusual Suspects. There will also be a charity Tug Of War competition with six local clubs battling it out to be crowned 2013 champions.

On Sunday, music gets underway at 12:30 p.m. with a traditional Irish music session and ceili. This will be followed by Bruce Springsteen tribute group, The Springstiens and Electric Lemon.

The night will be topped off with a GAA Club Colours night, with a cash prize for whichever club brings the most jerseys.