The theme is reconnection, and performers from overseas, New Zealand and the Upper Clutha will unite for seven days of entertainment and conversation from March 26 to April 2.
Locals feature heavily, from local choir the Song Catchers, led by Hawea Flat musician Anna Shaw, to former Wanaka adventurer Dave Vass, of Christchurch, who is launching his first book.
Free events have also been expanded.
Several performers are coming from Australia, including one-man band Jonny Hawkins, who will present Maureen: Harbinger of Death.
Speaking before last night’s launch at the Lake Wanaka Centre, festival artistic director Sophie Kelly, of Nelson, said the programme resulted from a "deep dive by key shareholders, who reflected on what the festival meant and why they went to it".
"There will be quite a different look and feel."
Festival venues include the Luggate Memorial Hall, The Camp at Lake Hawea, the Mount Aspiring College theatre and the Bullock Creek reserve.
The colourful Pacific Crystal Palace returns to the lawn of the Wanaka Hotel .
The festival has refreshed branding and colours and a new name - the Wanaka Festival of Colour, previously known as the Southern Lakes Festival of Colour.
Former arts festival director Philip Tremewan is directing the festival’s sister act, the Aspiring Conversations Festival.
