Locals, visitors, families and lovers of Country music are making their way to the Central Coast for the annual, three-day Central Coast Council Country Music Festival which kicks off tomorrow evening and runs over the weekend.

9,000 people attended the popular free Country Music Festival last year with even more Country music fans expected to gather and enjoy the 2018 event.

Council Section Manager Place Activation, Ashlee Abbott, said a new movement of Country music performers inspired by today’s pop, rock and alternative genres have been brought together for the community to enjoy.

“The Country Music Festival is a popular free event run by Council which brings people together to celebrate contemporary Country music.” Ms Abbott said.

“A massive line-up of quality Country Australian performers will take to the main stage on Sunday, 12 August including Adam Eckersley, Homegrown, Peter Denahy, Gretta Ziller, Andrew Swift and Brad Cox – 2018 Toyota Star Maker winner.

“New this year, Festival goers will also get a sneak-peak of the talented artists who will be involved in Council’s free four-day pavement art event – ‘Chalk the Walk’ – to be held on 4-7 October 2018.

“We believe events like this are important in bringing our community together and in supporting local people and local businesses and I invite the community to join us for this great family weekend of free entertainment.”

On Friday, 10 August and Saturday, 11 August local venues will feature live entertainment in their establishments including a mix of known and up-and-coming performers such as Chelsea Berman, Whiskey River, Red Dirt Band, Roadhouse, Keep It Country Trio, Peter Stefanson, Neilly Rich and Redneck Gentlemen.

Also on Saturday, talented buskers will bring the streets to life with Country music as Festival goers check out The Entrance Markets, food stalls, rides and activities.

Don't miss a great family weekend of free entertainment! Enjoy the fantastic line-up of local and interstate performers at the 2018 Country Music Festival.

Visit centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/events to view the full program.