The festival features events never seen in the Illawarra at any other time of the year.

One of the major events will be the Dragon Boat Challenge at Skiway Park, Oak Flats, from 9am on the Saturday.

Secretary of the Shellharbour City Festival of Sport Diane Johnston said from humble beginnings a few years ago, the event now attracted enormous interest.

"We are delighted with the response, with around 25 crews already showing interest," she said.

"However, we can always handle a few more.

"Twenty people per team are required, so get your family, friends or work colleagues together to battle it out over 200 metres on Lake Illawarra.

"The cost is only $500 per team [$25 per person] for a great day out.

"Dragon Boats NSW provides the boats, drummers and sweepers and the local community is encouraged to come down and support the teams and cheer them on."

On the Sunday, the Walk or Run for Fun at Shell Cove takes place.

This five-kilometre walk/run or nine-kilometre run through reserves at Shell Cove is open to all. Parents with prams are catered for, and there will be food stalls and entertainment.

There will be a jumping castle for the children and all participants will receive a free drink bottle, certificate of participation and a chance to win some great prizes donated by businesses.

Early-bird entry before the day is available; the cost is $10 (seniors) and $5 (juniors under-18), with a family of four (two adults and two children) $25.

Registration on the day is from 8am to 8.50am, with seniors $15, juniors $10 and family $35.

The event runs from 9am-11am, proceeds going to the NSW Cancer Council and Shellharbour Hospital Ladies Auxiliary.

For registrations contact the Shellharbour Visitor Information Centre on 4221 6169 or download the entry forms from shellharbourcityfestivalofsport.com.au.