Ironfest is a tough festival to pin down. Its inclusivity means it is no one thing, but a wild collection of a whole range of ideas, hobbies, interests and enthusiasms.
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All of this Ironfest energy, which is billed as an arts fest with a metal edge, makes its organisation something of a challenge.
“The problem of juggling so much is a wonderful problem to have,” Ironfest’s Macgregor Ross said.
Ticket sales are already 20 per cent ahead of where they were last year for Saturday and Sunday’s festival.
Considering last year saw 16,000 people through the gates, Mr Ross is predicting close to 20,000.
There will be, among other things, Cosplay, medieval, blacksmiths, 20th century, sci-fi, live music, jousting and a cavalry charge.
A new feature this year will be the addition of a guild hall; a hub of demonstrations and workshops particularly for the hobbyiest or for the admirer of the grossly talented.
“This will be replacing the wrestlers, they are having a break this year,” he said.
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More bands will be on offer for live entertainment, including the Blue Mountains and Bathurst brass bands as well as Lithgow’s Highland Pipe Band.
Ironfest will open this Friday for family previews, followed by the annual Ironfest Ball at Lithgow Workies but the main event will be on Saturday and Sunday.
The preview will be a sneak peek of the set-up of Ironfest from 3pm-6pm on Friday, costing $5. The official opening of Ironfest will occur at 7.30pm as part of the ball.