The Folk by the Sea Festival begins this Friday, September 4 and runs through to Sunday, September 6.

It offers audiences a variety of compelling performances in local restaurants, parks, cafes and at the Pavilion Kiama.

The festival has morphed from its traditional folk roots into a celebration of diverse world music.

It is a mix of folk, world, roots, gypsy, Celtic and bluegrass music which culminates in a performance by headline act, Christine Anu. It also embraces many different types of cultural expression such as plays, poetry and dancing.

There will be 45 acts, 70 concerts and 100 artists from the UK, Ireland and New Zealand, along with some great Aussie talent.

The festival will provide another great weekend in Kiama celebrating music and culture. The Hillbilly Goats are tipped to be a standout performance and I'm personally looking forward to hearing local singer, and council's Cultural Grants winner, Joe Mungovan stake his place in this international music festival.

Once again, Kiama council is delighted to be a major sponsor and congratulates the Illawarra Folk Club's organising committee for the effort, time and passion they put into the event. The festival is a marvellous tribute to the enthusiasm of this community-based organisation.

I welcome all visitors who have made the pilgrimage to Kiama for this festival, and I encourage our residents to join in the celebrations.

While you are in town, council invites you to try our free NBN Wi-Fi in the Kiama CBD and share your festival videos on our new community website kiamaconnect.com.au.

Have a wonderful time at Folk by the Sea 2015.

Enjoy the festival, our lovely location, shops, cafes and welcoming community.

Mayor Brian Petschler