FanFest replaces the Knights' community season launch, and is free and open-to-all.

It will run from 11am to 8pm, with activities for the whole family, entertainment, a chance to meet and greet the team, and three big games of footy.

Attendees will see the next generation of Knights' talent in action, with the Harold Matthews and SG Ball sides (featuring a number of Coalfields players) to take on the Penrith Panthers from 11am and 12.30pm respectively.

The NRL squad will then take to the field for an open-training session, followed by an opportunity for the public to meet and mingle with the squad.

For the little ones looking to give rugby league a go, there will be a free Come and Try Clinic for boys and girls aged five to 12 from 2pm to 6pm. Club representatives from the Maitland and District Junior Rugby League Association on hand to assist with inquiries.

The day will conclude with a trial match between the Knights' NSW Cup side (which could feature Cessnock juniors Brayden Musgrove and Brodie Jones) and the reigning Newcastle Rugby League premiers, the Cessnock Goannas at 6pm.

Full canteen facilities will be available with the bar open at 2pm, and a pop-up bar on the hill with Kalyn Ponga's Goo-C Pacific Ale.

A famous Cessnock jersey worn by Kate Curry and signed by the Johns family (Gary, Matthew, Andrew, Kate, Jack, Cooper, Samuel, Louis, Pat and Fletcher) will be raffled.

Cessnock Goannas secretary Cherie Douglas said the club is excited to welcome the Knights to Cessnock Sportsground.

"We are very grateful for the opportunity to have such an amazing event in our home town - our Cessnock and Knights fans love rugby league," she said.

"It will be fantastic exposure for our sponsors and a great way to celebration the start of season 2021."

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