The latest event kicked off on Friday with thousands arriving in the North-East town to enjoy a weekend of music and entertainment.

Festival coordinator Chris Atwell said the three-day event was the largest and longest running social and cultural event in the history of the town.

“It showcases George Town in a really special way … all the local people seem to like it and get involved now,” she said.

“We’ve got a strong positive committee … it’s growing every year, I think it’s bigger and better and we’re now bringing in headline acts.”

Musician Theresa Young travelled up from Hobart to take part in the festival for the first time.

“Participation in music and dance is the core of what the folk culture is and I think any festival which encourages people to jam and to sing and celebrate life together is really special,” she said.

The festival will finish up on Sunday afternoon with a farewell concert.