Now in its sixth year, MOFO was launched officially yesterday by curator Brian Ritchie dressed as an astronaut in front of a US space shuttle at the festival's after-party site.

For the next five days Hobart will be alive with everything from roaming performers, shipping container bars and kitchens, food and wine demos, performance blacksmiths, installation artworks to musical artists from around the world.

Ritchie said the festival would be a spaced out event, with US singer songwriter John Grant and UK house music founders The Orb as his standout acts.

Ticket sales were looking good, and almost 60 per cent were bought by visitors from outside Tasmania.

MOFO kicks off today with performances around Hobart, including the official after-party, Faux Mo, located at the Huon Quays.

The festival runs until Sunday and tickets can be bought individually or as a whole festival ticket at www.mofo.net.au.