THE Whitsundays is about to be hit by a three-day, jam-packed art and lifestyle festival known as Mushroom Valley.

This weekend will mark the fifth anniversary of the event, with more than 25music artists and numerous workshops, as well as massage and reiki throughout the weekend.

In the past five years, Mushroom Valley has evolved into something more than a music festival - it has become a community.

With the event to take place in a magical landscape between the Whitsundays and Mackay, the sub-tropical setting is the perfect complement to the eclectic electronic music the festival has to offer.

This year's Mushroom Valley will include a deluxe choice of old favourites and some special international guests, playing styles ranging from techno to progressive, psychedelic trance and the broken beat genres of glitch hop and drum and bass.

Although the music is a central focus, it is only part of the experience.

As the festival website reads: "In this community, we cater for all ages and offer everyone the chance to be themselves."

Mushroom Valley director/promoter Ben Irving said the event had grown a lot in five years with this year's event expected to draw its biggest crowds yet.

"It was hard at the start but after five years we've really noticed the community support," he said.

"We now donate to schools and the local community."

The event includes four days of free camping, free workshops, a children's area, family camping, healing area, chill zone, market stalls, face painting and a variety of food options.

There is a shuttle bus leaving Airlie Beach at 3pm from the Base Resort to the festival via Proserpine airport. The bus returns from the festival and will leave the site at 7pm Sunday.

It's an experience like no other and it's coming to the Whitsundays this weekend.

FESTIVAL TIME

What: Mushroom Valley

When: October 7-9

Where: Calen Mount Charlton Rd, Mt Charlton

Cost: $120, kids under 15 free, under 18s need to be accompanied by an adult

Tickets: Online here.