Chontelle Grecian, one of the festival's organisers, said she was excited to see people enjoying the shows and events lined up in the 2019 schedule, which is jam-packed with music, dancing, bush poetry, song writing and youth events.

"It's going to be a really action-packed, full weekend," Ms Grecian said. "We're really excited for the weekend. We're really excited to see the names that are coming for the festival.

The fact that we have some really good local talent part of the festival this year is also exciting. We've been promoting the festival regionally as well as in metropolitan areas. We're expecting lots of people to come through and check it out."

The festival, sponsored by Port Stephens Toyota, will begin with a line dancing meet and greet on Thursday and end with the longest line dance on Monday.

In between those days there will be bush poetry, more line dancing, gigs, songwriting, open mic opportunities, a twilight dinner cruise and a family fun day available.

The festival's official launch event will be held at Nelson Bay Bowling Club on Friday from 5.30pm. Tickets, $20 per person, much be purchased by 3pm on Thursday.

The launch includes a line dancing demonstration, bush poetry and performances by young country music stars Brooke and Sam Thompson, plus Lee J Collier, Wendy Wood and Mustang.

More youth activities have been included in this year's festival, including the addition of a youth market and free children's activities at a family fun day at Horizons Golf Resort in Salamander Bay on Sunday.

Jason Owen's gig at Broughtons at the Bay on Saturday night is also all ages. This week the venue announced the previously ticketed gig is now free. Those who have purchased tickets to the 6pm gig will receive a refund.