Get ready for an unforgettable weekend of music as the 12th annual Folk by the Sea Festival comes to Kiama from 12-14 September.

The festival has an impressive lineup of over 35 bands and artists from across Australia, performing in nine venues at the Kiama Showground Pavillion and surrounds.

Festival director Neil McCann says he’s excited for what the festival has in store, with around 200 performers having applied, organisers had the luxury of selecting 30 to 40 acts based on quality.

“This is a small festival compared to many folk festivals, but it attracts really good quality musicians," he said.

This year’s program includes award-winning acts like Darren Coggan, recipient of multiple Golden Guitars and Independent Country Music Awards, The Weeping Willows, and Charley Castle and the Boys in the Well, a young band that recently won the Tamworth Busking Competition. There will also be local favourites performing at the festival including Kiama Sea Shanty and Kiama Pipe Band.

"The Weeping Willows have just come back from a European tour, and you've got to have a fair bit of quality to pull off a sold-out European tour," McMann said.

The festival offers diverse venue experiences, from The Pavilion accommodating over 200 people, to more intimate venues that host around 20 to 30 people.

“People come to the folk festival to take in the music, and they watch, they listen, and they enjoy the music,” McMann said.

“The audience love it because they're up close and personal with the musicians, and they can hear everything.”

The festival is kicking off on Thursday night with a free charity concert at the Kiama Leagues Club, with entry by donation to Lifeline South Coast.

Tickets are available online at folkbythesea.com.au/tickets or can be purchased at the gate on the day.