This year marks the 24th instalment of the festival, with up to 300 artists, painters, sculptors, photographers and more to show their talents through Thirroul streets between Friday and Sunday. David Hubbard, festival co-ordinator, said organisers this year were tackling one of their biggest instalments.

"It's not just painting or art, it is the arts in a broad sense," Mr Hubbard said, pointing out the market stalls, music, talent quests and more that flesh out the festival's offerings.

"We've tried to make it a real showcase for creative people in the northern suburbs."

The work of more than 200 artists will be shown as part of a special exhibition, in addition to dozens of artists and stalls along the promenade, through the town, and a sculpture showing on the beach itself.

Liz Humphries, co-ordinator of the art prize, said the contest had grown from a small side offering to one of the festival's biggest drawcards.

"It started small, to foster art in the area, but it has grown and grown each year to around 220 entries this year," she said.

Comedian and northern suburbs resident Anh Do has contributed a piece to the festival, alongside other locals.

"The point is to expose up-and-coming artists, to give them opportunities to get their work out there," Mr Hubbard said.

Also on the schedule is a sandcastle building competition, a photography exhibit, and family entertainment including rides, a petting zoo and kite building workshops.

See thirroulfestival.com for more information.