Festival chairwoman Diane Paterson said although the weekend had a good following, it was important to come up with fresh ideas to keep it interesting.
The 11th festival will take place for three days from Friday, February 25, and this year's entertainment includes some new activities among the old favourites, she said.
"We're trying to ensure there's things for all age groups and the Dolly Derby is a bit of fun aimed at the kids. It's a chance for the mums and dads to help their kids make their entry for the race," Ms Paterson said.
The "dolly" would contain wheels and a platform, with or without sides, with no steering.
Competitors would race in teams, with one person on the "dolly", towed by another.
The race along part of Charlemont St would be held on Saturday, as part of the afternoon street party.
A golf putting course, around the John Turnbull Thompson statue, and games of petanque and croquet would also be among the "low-key" activities added to this year's entertainment.
"The wider variety of events we have, the more likely people will linger a bit longer."
The festival was taking on a "wartime" theme this year, she said.
"Again, that's something we've adopted, to keep the festival fresh - picking an era to focus on."
"The Maniototo Stadium [venue for the Friday night banquet] will be decorated along those lines and some of the music will be wartime songs."
Once again, the annual two-day Otago Central Rail Trail duathlon will stop over in Ranfurly on the Saturday night, giving the town another boost.
The festival will feature an Art Deco fashion parade, art exhibition, and music by Southern Dixie Jazz and the Canterbury Regiment Army Band and a church service.
