Stars and stripes were flying high as the incoming U.S. Ambassador to Ireland, Edward S. Walsh, hosted guests for the Fourth of July celebrations on Thursday.
The high-profile bash was hosted on the lawn at Deerfield Residence in the Phoenix Park in Dublin, with over 2,500 guests from the world of media, culture, politics, sports and business stepping out to raise a toast to American independence.
Speaking of his new appointment, Ambassador Walsh said: 'I have been told that this is the best job in the entire world - and judging by this past week, and especially tonight, I already believe it.'
'I stand before you as a businessman, a family man, and someone who deeply values the ties that bind communities together, from the boardroom to the golf course.
'As the new U.S. Ambassador to Ireland, I look forward to building lasting relationships, communicating openly, and embracing all that brings our peoples together.'
He was joined on stage by his wife Lynn; his daughter Maggie and her husband, Matthew; as well as his daughter Anna and her finacé Beljan.
Guests on the night tucked into an American-themed feast of hot dogs and hamburgers, washed down with bourbon and beer.
They were also treated to live entertainment on the night from Una Healy, who stole the show in a glittering white jumpsuit, and Luke Thomas & The Swing Cats.
One highlight of the evening came courtesy of Michael Flatley, who performed a tune on his flute, much to the delight of the crowd.
The national anthems were performed on the night by Emmet Cahill and Sean Tester.
The Independence Day celebrations wrapped up in style with a vibrant fireworks display to a soundtrack of hits favoured by the US President, including 'America the Beautiful' and 'YMCA.'
As he took office, he thanked his 'friend' for having faith in him to do the job.
'I am truly grateful to my friend, President Donald J Trump, for his trust in me.
'The United States and Ireland enjoy a relationship rooted in friendship, strengthened by partnership and enriched by deep people-to-people ties.'
See more photos from the Fourth of July celebrations below:
