And it's on again this weekend.

Recognised by Tourism NSW as one of the NSW's major cultural events, Ironfest is an arts festival with a metal edge.

The festival enthrals visitors with its large scale performances, colourful medieval costumes and alternative musical and artistic performances.

According to Ironfest Manager, Macgregor Ross, it is the opportunity to participate in a lifestyle known only through creative writing, film and the study of history that draws people to Ironfest.

"Visitors are transported back in time, as the smell of gunpowder wafts across the ground, and the boom of cannons reverberates around the hills.

"They are immersed in the spectacle both as an audience to the performances and by joining art and craft workshops," Mr Ross said.

Titled 'Revolution', Ironfest 2007 will include two major events as well as art exhibitions, market stalls, live musical acts, street performances, art workshops, blacksmithing demonstrations and competitions, busking competitions, circus acts, educational exhibits and more.

In 2006 Ironfest attracted international attention when jousters from New Zealand participated in the inaugural St George's Day Australasian World Jousting Tournament, bringing the sound, colour and action of a medieval pageant to Lithgow.

This weekend jousters from the United Kingdom, New Zealand and France will participate in the second St George's Day Australasian World Jousting Tournament, to be held over two days.

Members of the British historical re-enactment group, the 71st Highland Light Infantry will travel from the UK to participate in the annual colonial battle re-enactment, The Battle of Lithgow.

This large scale event, brings to life the drama of a colonial battle.

Ironfest will take place at Lithgow Showground from 10 am to 5 pm on Saturday and from 10 am to 4 pm on Sunday.

Admission costs: adults $20 one day, $35 two days; children $12/$20 and families $45/$80; pre-purchased tickets are discounted.