On the same day Premier Dominic Perrottet announced new restrictions for NSW but promised major events could proceed, the organisers of the event pulled the pin.

"The decision to postpone the Festival, just a week out from the event, was a difficult, yet necessary, decision to make," festival manager Barry Harley said.

"Given the current state of COVID transmission in our communities, and the impact the changed COVID safety measures have on our venues, it is the best decision for the health and safety of everyone involved, particularly the Tamworth and country music community."

It is the second year in a row the country's longest-running country music festival, which usually attracts over 50,000 people, has been impacted by the pandemic.

Organisers are now planning to hold the 50th anniversary event between April 18 and 24.

"There's still a lot to celebrate and we will be able to do so in April this year," Mr Harley said.

A further update on the rescheduled event will be made next week, and ticket holders for January shows will be contacted directly, he said.

Australian Associated Press