HE'S been an Airlie Beach local for nearly 23 years, but has been a star on the local and national stage for much longer.

Last month, Kieran McCarthy played his 1000th show.

And to celebrate, the venue at which he has played many of his shows, KC's Bar & Grill, is holding a tribute weekend.

"I was going through all my calendars and went through all the gigs I'd done all over Australia and added a few up only to realise I'd done just on a thousand,” Mr McCarthy said.

"It was something I mentioned to Peter (owner of KC's) and he thought we should do something so we decided to do a weekend and just get some old punters from Airlie who've been here for a while and reminisce.”

Owner of KC's Bar & Grill Peter Chengody said it was a privilege to have the "loveable” Mr McCarthy play on the KC's stage.

"The weekend is for many years of wonderful entertainment and not only at our venue but around the Whitsunday region,” he said.

"He's not just an artist who plays music but has developed his music and produced albums and singles that are recognisable within the Whitsundays.”

Mr Chengody said despite having only been involved with KC's for two years, he knew Mr McCarthy as being an "admirable citizen”.

"He's done wonderful things and he's a friend to everyone,” he said.

"It's also amazing that KC's is still this great place for musicians to play at since 1981. We've had live music every year since.”

Mr McCarthy said he was honoured to have a weekend dedicated to his music.

"KC's over the years has been quite an iconic venue to play, so it was always a privilege to play there,” he said.

"For (KC's) to be doing seven nights a week of entertainment since they've been opened is incredible.”

The Kieran McCarthy tribute weekend will be held on February 24-25 and anyone from anywhere is welcome to attend to celebrate more than 1000 Kieran McCarthy shows.

1000 shows

WHAT: Kieran McCarthy Tribute Weekend

WHERE: KC's Grill & Bar

WHEN: February 24 (8.30pm), February 25 (2-5pm and 8.30pm)

COST: Free

CONTACT: 49466320