Category Archives: Branson Attractions

A “Bakers Dozen” of things in Branson your kids would absolutely love doing!

Silver Dollar City’s record setting spinning coaster, “Time Traveler,” Sight and Sound’s spectacular “Samson,” “Reza Edge of Illusion, and “Main Street Lake Cruises Lake Queen” are just a few of the exciting things kids, will enjoy in Branson.

There’s so much to see and do in Branson that it’s sometimes hard to focus in on the particular things that you might want to see and do. That’s true whether you’re an adult or child. From among many, here’s a “Baker’s Dozen” of items that we believe most kids will enjoy doing.

It is in a “check list” form so that items of interest can be checked off for further consideration. The links will take you to additional information on the item such as scheduling, pricing and, in many cases, pictures and videos. The information is provided by the Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services:

1.  Experience the “walls coming down at Sight and Sound’s amazing biblical production of Samson. This spectacular production is  presented on a 300 foot surround stage and features live animals on stage and coming down the aisles. You can enhance the fun and excitement of seeing Samson by taking a Samson Behind the Scenes Tour to see the animals, and what goes on behind the scenes, up close and personal.

2.  Ride one of Silver Dollar City’s over 40 rides. From the new world record setting spinning coaster “Time Traveler” to rides for the smallest member of the family there’s fun and excitement around every turn.

3.  Watch a dog peddle a bicycle, cats jump through hoops, and see pets, many rescued from animal shelters,Watch a dog peddle a perform amazing feats at the Amazing Pets show.

4.  From big dazzling illusions to charming sleight-of-hand trickery, thrill to the magic of one of the hottest artists in the world of magic today, Reza, in the Reza Edge of Illusion show.

5.   Take a train ride on Branson Scenic Railway‘s historic vintage railroad cars through the beautiful Ozark Mountains.

6.  See the horses in their stalls at Dolly Parton’s Stampede then experience the fun and excitement of the “funnest place in Branson to eat.”

7.   Walk amid 1000s of live butterflies and through mirror mazes in the Butterfly Palace and Rainforest Adventure.

8.  Play mini golf on one of Branson’s many themed mini golf courses such as Fun Spot Farms Mini Golf.

9.  Sit in a lifeboat, touch an iceberg, or enjoy one of the other exciting interactive activities as part of your “voyage” at the Titanic Museum Attraction.

10. Splash, play, slide and “plummet” in 2 million gallons of watery fun at southwest Missouri’s largest outdoor water park, White Water.

11. Experience the “big splashdown” while riding “Ride The Ducks.”

12. Be amazed by the Amazing Acrobats of Shanghai where you’ll see acrobatic feats so phenomenal you won’t believe your eyes!

13. Experience the unique thrill, relaxation, and family togetherness of a cruise on Lake Taneycomo aboard Main Street Lake Cruises Lake Queen. Narrated by your U.S. Coast Guard licensed Captain, you’ll experience scenic vistas and see things that most of the millions of Branson visitors never get to see including the largest Great Blue Heron rookeries in Missouri and areas inhabited by Bald Eagles where you’ll frequently get to see these incredible creatures perched in the trees or soaring above the water.

In terms of all exciting and fun things for kids to see and do in Branson, this list is just the “tip of an iceberg.” For additional information on anything in this article or for information on “anything Branson,” please feel free to call 1-800-785-1550 and talk with one of Branson Tourism Center’s Branson based Travel Planners who will be delighted assist you in any way they can.

Best Branson Insider Highlights for April 2018

Most recently seen on the hit NBC show, “The Voice,” country music super star Trace Adkins .

In April, the Ozark Hills surrounding Branson blossom into the full freshness and wonder of spring, but that’s not all that happens! It’s also when Branson’s shows, attractions, outdoor and other activities blossom into the full freshness and wonder of their 2018 seasons.

Here’s our Featured Show, Limited Engagement, and Event of the Month, along with a list highlighting many other Limited Engagement appearances, and Special Events you can enjoy in Branson during April:

Featured Show of the Month: Million Dollar Quartet, the Tony Award-winning musical, is again captivating Branson audiences with this brilliant musical adaptation depicting a phenomenal moment in the history of rock and roll; the impromptu jam session that brought together music budding icons Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Carl Perkins for the first and only time they would ever perform together! In 1956, rocker Carl Perkins scheduled a recording session at Sun Studios in Memphis, with his band and another rock ‘n roller, Jerry Lee Lewis. Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash happened by separately and they all just started jamming together.

The Million Dollar Quartet is filled with songs that most know and love such as “Matchbox,” “That’s All right,” “I Walk the Line”, “Ghost Riders in the Sky,” “Hound Dog,” “Peace in the Valley,” “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On,” “Blue Suede Shoes, and and more, but it’s much more than just great music. It’s the story of a special moment, relationships, and a hint of romance, all in a production that is one of the most entertaining in Branson.

Featured Limited Engagement of the Month: Trace Adkins with special guest Billy Dean. Trace Adkins’ trademark baritone has powered numerous hits to the top on the charts. Among other things, the three-time Grammy nominated member of the Grand Ole Opry is also a TV personality, most recently appearing in the NBC hit prime time show, “The  Voice,” an actor, author, and spokesman for the Wounded Warrior Project. Adkin’s numerous hits include “This Ain’t No Thinkin’ Thing,” “I Left Something Turned On At Home,” “Hot Mama,” “Songs About Me,” “Honky Tonk Badonkadonk,” “Ladies Love Country Boys,” “You’re Gonna Miss This,” “Arlington,” “I’m Tryin’,” “Chrome,” and “This Ain’t No Love Song.” Appearing along with Adkins, as a special guest will be Billy Dean who has a string of hits including “Only Here For A Little While,” “Somewhere In My Broken Heart,” “You Don’t Count The Cost,” “Only The Wind,” “Billy The Kid,” “If There Hadn’t Been You,” “We Just Disagree,” “That Girl’s Been Spyin’ On Me,” and “Let Them Be Little.

Featured Event of the Month: Branson.com Honors Purple Heart Recipients, is a unique event remembering, honoring, serving, and entertaining those getting the ‘Purple Heart’ as the result of combat wounds suffered serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. It is arranged to permit time for those attending to share time with one another, experience Branson, and take part in activities that honor, entertain and support them. All of the activities are no cost to Purple Heart Recipients. For more information or to Register, please call 1-800-268-4014 or go to the Branson.Com Honors Purple Heart Recipients web page.

Limited Engagements (Sorted by starting date.)

Apr 13: The Dean Z Show
Apr 14: Ultimate Elvis Tribute Contest
Apr 17-17: Mickey Gilley & Johnny Lee – The Urban Cowboy Reunion
Apr 20-21: Oak Ridge Boys
Apr 20-21: Branson Music Fest
Apr 22-24: Mickey Gilley & Johnny Lee – The Urban Cowboy Reunion
Apr 27: Trace Adkins with special guest Billy Dean

Special Event Highlights (Sorted by starting date.)

Apr 1-8: Spring Ride Days at Silver Dollar City
Apr 1-30: Ozark Mountain Shindig Festival
Apr 6-8: Silver Dollar City Young Christian’s Weekend
Apr 7: Party with the Stars
Apr 11-29: Festival of Wonder at Silver Dollar City
Apr 12-14: 10th Annual Branson.Com Honors Purple Heart Recipients 
Apr 13-15: Ultimate Elvis Tribute Contest & Festival
Apr 14: Ultimate Elvis Tribute Contest – American Bandstand Theatre
Apr 16-22: Bass Pro Shops Legends of Golf – Big Cedar
Apr 18-22: Legends of Golf Presented by Bass Pro Shops
Apr 20-21: Branson Car Auction – Branson Convention Center
Apr 20-21: Branson Music Fest – Welk Resort Branson
Apr 20-21: Branson Auto Auction
Apr 28: Kayak Branson’s Biggest Flotilla Adventure on Lake Taneycomo

For additional information on these events, or any of Branson’s shows and attractions, or for lodging arrangements, please contact the Branson Tourism Center by visiting www.BransonTourismCenter.com, or calling 1-800-785-1550 and talking with one of their  Branson-based vacation planning specialists. They will be delighted to answer any questions, and assist you with show or lodging reservations and there’s absolutely no charge for this service.

“Samson” and Silver Dollar City’s “Time Traveler ” are finally here!

“There’s always something new and exciting in Branson; 2018, is no exception,” said Preston Garrison, Business Unit Manager for the Branson Tourism Center. “Two of the most anticipated events of 2018 are the Branson premier of Sight and Sound’s spectacular stage production of Samson on March 3 and the opening of Silver Dollar City’s world record setting ‘Time Traveler’ spinning coaster, scheduled for March 14,” he added.

Sight and Sound Theatres, noted for its spectacular productions, will be premiering Samson in Branson on March 3. It presents the story on a  “jaw-dropping scale as it’s brought to life by a world-class cast, spectacular special effects, and live animals – on stage and in the aisles. It’s an unforgettable, uplifting thrill ride that literally brings the house down!…As Samson battles the Philistines – and his own personal calling – he soon falls prey to temptation, losing his strength and sight. But he never stops hoping. He’s a frequent failure and an underachiever yet, in the New Testament book of Hebrews, ‘Samson’ is included on the all-star list of faith. Discover how God transforms this unwilling hero to accomplish His work.”

Those planning to see Samson might also want to take the special Behind the Scenes Tour of the production. “A million watts of lights, sixty-thousand watts of sound, a massive stage over twenty-thousand square feet in size that wraps around the audience on three sides and four-story tall set pieces towering right in front of you.” It has exclusive backstage access to everything that happens behind the scenes.

The Behind the Scenes Tour is available with the purchase of regular season ticket. Arrival time is at 12:30 pm, the tour begins at 1:00 pm, and lasts 1 hour.

Silver Dollar City’s new $26 million Time Traveler coaster is the world’s fastest, steepest, and tallest spinning coaster. “It’s a revolutionary coaster ahead of our time, and there’s only one place on the planet to experience it; that’s here in Silver Dollar City!” said Brad Thomas, President of Silver Dollar City Attractions.

The Time Traveler, is a world-record-breaking spinning coaster from many different aspects. With a top speed of 50.3 miles per hour, it will be the fastest and its “”immediate out-of-the-station 10 story, 90 degree vertical drop”… straight down the Ozark mountainside, is the steepest drop. Other “first and only” features include three inversions, a Dive Loop, Vertical Loop, and a Zero-G Roll; a 95-foot tall Vertical Loop; and a double launch. It’s first day of operation is scheduled to be in conjunction with the opening of Silver Dollar City’s 2018 season on March 14.

For additional information on Samson, Silver Dollar City or for lodging arrangements, please contact the Branson Tourism Center by visiting www.BransonTourismCenter.com, or calling 1-800-785-1550 and talk with a Branson-based vacation planning specialist. They will be delighted to answer any questions, and assist you with show or lodging reservations. There’s absolutely no charge for this service.

 

Best Branson Insider Highlights for March 2018

Sight and Sounds’ biblical spectacular “Samson” premiers March 3.

“With the winter we’ve had everyone is looking forward to spring and, there’s just something special about spring in Branson,” said, Preston Garrison, Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. “The beauty of our Ozarks as they begin to blossom out with spring foliage and colors, the opening of Silver Dollar City, and the start of the season for Presleys’ Country Jubilee has for decades been signs that it’s spring in Branson,” he added.

Here’s our Featured Show and Event of the Month, with a list of the highlights of special events you can enjoy in Branson during the month of March:

Featured Show(s) of the Month: The Branson Premier of Samson, Sight and Sound Theatres’ newest biblical spectacular. Experience this epic story as Samson battles the Philistines and himself and discover how God transforms this unwilling hero to accomplish His work. It’s all brought to life on a 300 foot surround sound stage, with animals, awesome special effects, colorful costumes, spectacular sets, and an amazing cast in a production that will entertain and inspire the whole family.

Presleys’ Country Jubilee, Branson’s first show on the “Branson Strip” starts its 51st consecutive Branson season on March 9. Its mix of that special Presley comedy strategically interwoven into the shows great music provides a one of a kind entertainment experience that keeps the audience, kids and adults alike, completely entertained, laughing, and wondering what to expect next! Once you’ve experienced you will understand why it has been one of Branson’s most popular show for over 50 years.

Featured Event of the Month: The scheduled opening of Silver Dollar City’s new $26 million “Time Traveler,” the world’s fastest, steepest, and tallest Spinning Coaster on March 14 in conjunction with the 2018 opening of Silver Dollar City. It’s a world-record-breaking Spinning Coaster from many different aspects including a top speed of 50.3 miles per hour, making it the fastest with its immediate out-of-the-station 10 story, 90 degree vertical drop”… straight down the Ozark mountainside, making it the steepest.

Special Event Highlights (Sorted by starting date.)

Mar 2 – Mar 4: Branson Classic Gymnastics, Branson Convention Center
Mar 2: First Friday, Branson Landing
Mar 8 – Mar 10: National IH Collectors Club Winter Convention
Mar 9: 5 K The Kenyan Way
March 14: Silver Dollar City opens 2018 Season
Mar 14 – Apr 08: Spring Ride Days, Silver Dollar City
Mar 16 – 17: American Cheer Power Cheerleading Competition
Mar 17: Hughes Music Show Presents St. Patrick’s Luck of the Irish Show
Mar 22 – 25: MoNASP State Tournament, (Archery) Branson, Convention Center
Mar 24 – Mar 25: KVD Big Bass Classic
Mar 31: Hollister Easter Egg Hunt Hollister High School Football Field
Mar 31 – Apr 2: Silver Dollar City Young Christians Weekend

For additional information on these events, or any of Branson’s shows and attractions, or for lodging arrangements, please contact the Branson Tourism Center by visiting www.BransonTourismCenter.com, or calling 1-800-785-1550 and talking with a Branson-based vacation planning specialist. They will be delighted to answer any questions, and assist you with show or lodging reservations and there’s absolutely no charge for this service.

 

Best Branson Insider Highlights for February 2018

One of the “big cats” at the National Tiger Sanctuary, the Titanic Museum Attractions’s full scale replica the Titanic’s “Grand Staircase, and the Grand Jubilee’s award winning quartet “New South.”

“With more shows starting to open for their 2018 season, Valentine’s Day, the long President’s Day Weekend, and smaller crowds, February is an ideal time to visit Branson ” said Preston Garrison, Business Unit Manager for the Branson Tourism Center. “It’s hard to imagine a more romantic place to celebrate Valentine’s Day or a better shopping destination during President’s Day Weekend,” he added.

Garrison also points out that many of Branson’s great shows will be open, or opening, during February. In fact, the beginning blush of Branson’s 2018 live show season with the opening of some of its most popular shows in February is our “Featured Show” of the month. Among the shows joining Grand Country’s Amazing Pets, Branson Country USA, Comedy Jamboree, and Grand Jubilee which premiered their 2018 shows in January, will be the following, sorted by opening date:*:

SIX (Feb 1)
Creedence Clearwater Revival Tribute Show (Feb 1)
Legends in Concert (Feb 2)
Eagles Tribute Concert (Feb 2)
Motown Downtown (Feb 9)
The Haygoods (Feb 10)
Doo Wop and the Drifters (Feb 10)
Ozarks Gospel (Feb 11)
Branson Murder Mystery Dinner Show (Feb 13)
The Blackwoods (Feb 14)
Dolly Parton’s Stampede (Feb 23)
Ozarks Country (Feb 25)

* Please check schedule for specific times and changes.

Many of Branson’s major attractions are open year round providing a myriad of opportunity for fun and adventure. These include, but are certainly not limited to the Butterfly Palace & Rainforest Adventure, Fritz’s Adventure, Main Street Lake Cruises Landing Princess, National Tiger Sanctuary, Shepherd of the Hills ATV Adventures, Titanic Museum Attraction, World’s Largest Toy Museum Complex and dozens more.

Featured Event of the Month: VisionCon 2018 continues a two decade only tradition of being Missouri’s premier comic book, science fiction, fantasy, live action, role playing, and gaming convention. Being held at the Branson Convention center, more than 4,000 people will attend with one common goal, having fun and raising money for local charities.

Special Event Highlights (Sorted by starting date.)

Feb 1-25: Off-Road Ozark ATV Adventures
Feb 14 & 17: Valentine’s Day Cruise on Main Street Marina’s luxury yacht The Landing Princess
Feb 14: Happy Valentines Day
Feb 14: Valentine’s Day Dinner at Keeter Center
Feb 15-19:  President’s Day Weekend Sale – Tanger Outlets
Feb 23-25: VisionCon 2018- Gaming, Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Anime Convention
Feb 25: Vince Elfrink Memorial Tournament – Lilleys’ Landing

Branson Tourism Center’s Garrison advises that weather and seasonal show, attraction and lodging availability are important things to consider when planning a trip to Branson during the winter months. He suggests calling the Branson Tourism Center, toll-free at 1-800-785-1550, and talking with one of their Branson-based Vacation Planning specialists. They’ll answer any questions and help with show reservations, ticketing and lodging. There’s no charge for this service.

 

Ozark Mountain Christmas celebrates the true excitement and spirit of Christmas

The “Andy Williams Christmas Extravaganza” staring the Osmonds and Lennon Sisters, “Christmas Wonderland,” Santa, and Silver Dollar City’s “An Old Time Christmas.”

“If you want a place where the spirit of the traditional American Christmas is honored, Branson, Missouri is for you,” said Annette Wood, the Director of Sales and Marketing for the Branson Tourism Center. “It’s a spectacular two-month celebration of the traditional American Christmas, Ozark Mountain Christmas, is like none other in the world. What other travel destination has Branson’s genuine Christmas spirit and live shows combined with millions of Christmas lights, drive through Christmas lighting displays, festive Christmas decorations, great shopping, an award-winning world class theme park, and so much more? None that we know of!” she added.

There’s always so much to see and do in Branson, but during Ozark Mountain Christmas, running from November 1 through December 31, it’s even more so. From among many, here’s three ideas that share the true excitement and spirit of an Ozark Mountain Christmas:

1. See One of Branson’s Live Christmas Shows: Branson is known for the variety of and quality of its live shows. During Ozark Mountain Christmas most of Branson’s most popular shows celebrate Christmas and the real “reason for the season,” starting with their first show in November. Branson’s Christmas shows are generally presented in one of two formats. One is shows that are totally Christmas. These include Andy Williams Christmas Extravaganza, Christmas Wonderland, Hughes Brothers Christmas Show, The Texas Tenors, Dixie Stampede, Sight and Sounds Miracle of Christmas, and others.

The second, involves a mixture of the “best” from their regular season shows and Christmas. Typically, about half of the show is devoted to the best of their regular season, and the other half, usually the last half, to their Christmas show. This would include many of Branson’s most popular shows such as Clay Cooper’s Country Express, the Haygoods, Presleys’ Country Jubilee, SIX, and others.

Many of Branson’s most popular shows will close out their 2017 season, including their Christmas shows by December 16. These include Presleys’ Country Jubilee, Andy Williams Christmas Extravaganza, Duttons, George Dyer, New Jersey Nights, and many more. Other popular shows such as Dixie Stampede, Clay Cooper’s Country Express, Dublin Tenors and the Celtic Ladies, Grand Jubilee, Haygoods, Hughes Brothers Christmas Show, Legends in Concert, Million Dollar Quartet, and SIX, remain open longer. It’s a good idea to check the individual show schedule, particularly for those remaining open after December 16, because they operate on abbreviated Christmas schedules.

2. Visit Silver Dollar City for its An Old Time Christmas Festival – The festival features over over 6.5 million sparkling Christmas lights with 1.5 million added just this year for its new light spectacular “Christmas in Midtown;” a Holly JollyTM Christmas Light Parade featuring Rudolph, The Red-Nosed Reindeer & Friends; 1,000 decorated Christmas Trees; two Broadway-style productions; a 5-Story Special Effects Christmas Tree; and more. Silver Dollar City’s An Old Time Christmas Festival has been perennially recognized as one of the best Christmas light displays in America. An Old Time Christmas resonates with the spirit and excitement of the traditional American celebration of Christmas. All the activities involved with An Old Time Christmas are in addition to the parks other activities including, weather permitting, its 30 plus rides and attractions. The festival runs from November 4 through December 30.

3. 69th Adoration Parade and Lighting Ceremony – On Sunday, December 5 at 5:00 PM, the Branson community will gather together to celebrate the true meaning of the Christmas season. The theme of the Lighting Ceremony and Parade is “keeping Christ in Christmas.” In keeping with that theme, the evening starts with the lighting of the giant 30-foot Nativity Scene near the top of Mount Branson overlooking Lake Taneycomo, Branson Landing, and Historic Downtown Branson. It’s immediately followed by a night “light parade” with dozens of bands, floats and walking units participating. The colorful and festive parade is themed to “keeping Christ in Christmas,” with no commercial advertising permitted on the floats.

“And that’s just three ideas from many,” said Wood. “Even if you can only visit for a couple of days, you can still enjoy the heartwarming charm of Christmas in Branson and the fun, excitement, and spirit of Ozark Mountain Christmas.

Ozark Mountain Christmas is not only one of the most special times of the year to visit Branson; it’s also one of the busiest. It’s suggested that you make reservations to insure availability and getting the best seats. For more information, or help with tickets and lodging, contact the Branson Tourism Center, at 1-800-785-1550 or through their website, www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

Best Branson Insider Highlights for October 2017

Chuck Wagon Cooking from Silver Dollar City’s Nation Crafts & Cowboy Festival, “The Texas Tenors”, and the “Million Dollar Quartet.”

“Branson’s beautiful fall foliage season will peak sometime between the middle and end of October,” said Preston Garrison, Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. “That, coupled with smaller crowds, cooler temperatures, and most of its Attractions and Shows being open, make October an ideal time to visit Branson. It’s also the last opportunity to see the biblical spectacular Moses and the regular season productions of many of Branson’s most popular shows before they start their Christmas shows during the first week of November,” he added.

Here’s an insider’s highlight list, containing some of the best of what’s going on in Branson during October including our Featured Show, Limited Engagement, and Event of the Month.

Featured Show of the Month: The Million Dollar Quartet is one of Branson’s most popular shows. It tells the story of one of the greatest jam sessions in rock n’ roll history. A once in a lifetime impromptu jam session of four young recording legends-to-be, Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Carl Perkins, and Jerry Lee Lewis that would have been a forgotten page of history, but for the discovery of an unknown recording of it decades later. It became the inspiration for the Tony Award winning musical Million Dollar Quartet that shares the music, spontaneity, and drama of what happened that December 4, 1956 day, as these four legends performed together for their first and last time. Its outstanding cast, timeless music that everyone knows, and great storyline combined with the show’s unique set and great production to create an incredible entertainment experience for the whole family.

Featured Limited Engagement of the Month: Since their national debut on NBC’s hit prime time show America’s Got Talent in 2009, The Texas Tenors have become one of the most popular singing groups in America. In addition, to a full concert schedule and many hit recordings, they have filmed two PBS Specials, “You Should Dream” and, just recently their newest, “Rise.” The show is in concert format containing many covers and original music including country, classical, gospel, Broadway, and more. From their first number to the last, the power, beauty, and intensity of each totals up to an unforgettable entertainment experience that should not be missed!

Featured Event of the Month: Silver Dollar City’s National Crafts & Cowboy Festival showcases the largest gathering of demonstrating craftsmen in the country. It features a Buffalo Bill style Wild West Show; chuck wagon cooking by Kent Rollins; expert horse trainer Fred Woehl taming beautiful wild mustangs; Silver Dollar City’s Barn Dance, and much more all in addition to all the other rides and activities the world class 1880s styled theme park offers daily.

Limited Engagements (Sorted by starting date)

Oct 4-5: Oak Ridge Boys
Oct 5: Dailey and Vincent
Oct 6-7: Herman’s Hermits Starring Peter Noone, & B.J. Thomas
Oct 8: America
Oct 11-12: Oak Ridge Boys
Oct 12-13: Boot Daddy Presents Gene Watson
Oct 13: Neal McCoy
Oct 13: Roots and Boots Tour starring Pam Tillis, Sammy Kershaw and Collin Raye
Oct 14: John Michael Montgomery
Oct 14: Sawyer Brown
Oct 15: Sara Evans
Oct 17-18: Boot Daddy Presents Jimmy Fortune
Oct 18: Gary Lewis & The Playboys, Dennis Tufano, and La La Brooks
Oct 20: Bill Engvall
Oct 21: Neil Sedaka
Oct 26: Oak Ridge Boys
Oct 28: The Golden Boys
Oct 27: William Shatner: Shatner’s World
Oct 30-Nov 18: Daniel O’Donnell
Oct 31: Oak Ridge Boys

Special Event Highlights (Sorted by starting date.)

Oct 1-28: National Craft & Cowboy Festival at Silver Dollar City
Oct 1- 31: The Urban Cowboy Reunion – Select Dates
Oct 1: Wounded Warriors Amputee Softball Team – Kids Camp Reunion
Oct 1: Annual TangerStyle Fit for a Cure 5K Run/Walk
Oct 1: Grand Country Half Marathon & 5K
Oct 3-Nov 16: ‘Flames of Freedom’ Play – Select Dates
Oct 6: Movie in the Park – Hocus Pocus
Oct 7: Harvest Moon Festival
Oct 10: Cops for Kids Open Buddy Bass Tournament
Oct 13-15: 2017 Outlaw Invitational Ledgestone Country Club
Oct 13-15: Ballparks of America – Ozark Mountain Fall Championship (7U-13U)
Oct 13-15: Our Lady of the Lake Annual Arts & Crafts Festival
Oct 14: Hollister Grape & Fall Festival
Oct 14: Branson’s Center Stage Presents Classic Rumble
Oct 14: Hollister Color Me Grape 5K
Oct 17-22: The Branson Collector Car Auction
Oct 20: Edina High School Marching Hornet Band Performance
Oct 27: Little River Band
Oct 27-29: Ballparks of America – Field of Screams (9U-13U)
Oct 28: Halloween BOOnanza at the Branson Recplex
Oct 28: 4th Annual Trout Team Tournament
Oct 28: Halloween Boogie Bash @ The Atrium
Oct 31: Trick or Treat Tangerstyle
Oct 31: Branson Landing’s Annual Safe Street Trick or Treat

For additional information on these events, or any of Branson’s shows and attractions, or for lodging arrangements, please contact the Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services by visiting www.BransonTourismCenter.com, or calling 1-800-785-1550.

 

From mustangs to crafts – Silver Dollar City’s National Crafts & Cowboy Festival has it all!

Mustang expert Fred Woehl is just one of the unique and exciting things to experience at Silver Dollar City’s National Crafts & Cowboy Festival.

“Silver Dollar City’s National Crafts & Cowboy Festival is a sure sign of fall in Branson,” said Preston Garrison, Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. “It’s a joint celebration of the legacy of the ‘Great American Cowboy’ and ‘1880’s style craftsmanship.’ There’s not another like it anywhere,” he added.

The Festival runs from September 13 to October 28 and is one of the largest gatherings of demonstrating craftsmen in the country. About 125 “visiting craftsmen, including Best of Missouri Hands juried artists,” will join Silver Dollar City’s 100 traditional craftsmen for the festival. It’s a unique chance to experience and see demonstrations of a variety of American crafts all in one place, including basketry, cooperage, knife making, stained glass, glass blowing, pottery & ceramics, quilt making, and many more.

Silver Dollar City’s Wild West Show, is returning, by popular demand, and will run through October 15. It’s hosted by trick roper and bullwhip artist A.J. Silver. Reminiscent of the Wild West shows of the 1880s, the show features “trick riders, 8-time World Champion Native American Hoop Dancer Nakotah LaRance, performing canines, and a new marksmanship demonstration by sharpshooting champion Kala Howard, who fires at targets while riding horseback.”

The Festival’s musical entertainment includes “Western Music Association 7-time Female Performer of the Year Belinda Gail, 3-time Group of the Year Miss Devon and the Outlaw, Entertainer of the Year and 2-time Female Performer of the Year Kristyn Harris, plus The Malpass Brothers, and The Home Rangers.” The popular Barn Dance, with Silver Dollar City’s own “Horsecreek Band,” will be held at the Carousel Barn each day.

See the “Extreme Mustang Makeover,” as mustang expert Fred Woehl tames and trains rescued wild mustangs. Kent Rollins, a ranch owner, whose chuck wagon cooking talents have been featured on the Food Network’s “Chopped” and “Throwdown with Bobby Flay,” returns for daily demonstrations of trail-side cooking. “Watercolor artist and Gunsmoke star Buck Taylor shows off his and other artists’ work in Buck Taylor’s Cowboy Emporium, located in the Silver Dollar City Frisco Barn. A cowboy art-lover’s dream; it features craftsmen with cowboy-inspired crafts like saddle making, leather crafting, Native American jewelry making, antler art, moccasin crafting and turkey feather painting.

In addition to the excellent food offered throughout the park daily, there will also be special Festival food offerings. These include Harvest Skillets with vegetables and smoked ham, bacon-wrapped smoked Turkey Legs, slow-smoked Prime Rib, and Apple Dumplings with homemade Cinnamon Ice Cream.

Branson Tourism Center’s Garrison points out that all the activities of the National Harvest & Cowboy Festival are in addition to everything else the award winning 1880’s theme park offers daily. This includes over 30 rides and attractions, 12 stage venues, 60 shops and more.

In terms of value and being able to enjoy all that Silver Dollar City has to offer at your leisure, he points out that the Branson Tourism Center (BTC) has a two day Silver Dollar City Pass that offers a greatly discounted price over two one day admissions. For additional information or tickets for Silver Dollar City, including the National Harvest & Cowboy Festival, or any of Branson’s other shows, attractions, or lodging, please contact BTC by either calling their toll-free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website https://www.bransontourismcenter.com/.

Branson Entertainment District voted Missouri’s Best Attraction!

Just a small glimpse of the entertainment, fun, and adventure available in “Branson’s Entertainment District.”

“What an honor it is for Branson’s Entertainment District to be voted ‘Missouri’s Best Attraction’” said Annette Wood, Director of Sales and Marketing for the Branson Tourism Center. Wood was referring to the recent USA Today’s 2017 10Best Missouri Attractions Readers’ Choice Travel Awards voting that honor to “Branson’s Entertainment District.” “It’s even more so when you consider all the other great attractions in Missouri.”

From all of Missouri’s attractions, a panel of four “experts,” working with the editors of USA’s “10Best,” nominated 20 Missouri attractions for 10Best’s readers to vote on. The experts were Laura Heck (Missouri Life), Diana Lambdin Meyer (www.mojotraveler.com) and Susan Manlin Katzman (Sweet Leisure) who “were chosen based on their knowledge and experience of travel in Missouri.”

From the 20 nominees, 10Best readers voted for “their favorite must-see attractions in the state.” They did. The results are in; the “Branson Entertainment District is Number 1!”

In announcing the award, Branson’s awesome live shows were featured. It said, “Branson is known as the ‘Live Music Show Capital of the World,’ so it’s no surprise that this entertainment district has something for everyone. Besides 50 live performance theaters, the area has a walkable downtown with loads of shopping options.”

The quality, quantity, and variety of Branson’s live shows is legendary. Branson offers over 100 live shows every day, during the season. And what a variety! From the Amazing Pets show to Branson’s first show on the “Branson Strip,” Presleys’ Country Jubilee, and dozens in-between, there truly is “something for everyone.”

Like the pure sound of the old country classics sung by some of the greats who made them famous, Raiding the Country Vault is the show for you. Want a little variety, including some great dance routines, trick roping, and one of the best entertainers in Branson? Clay Cooper and the cast of Clay Cooper’s Country Express have all that and then some. How about spending some time with some of music’s greatest legends at Branson’s Legends in Concert, or some of the greatest music from Broadway in Broadway’s Greatest Hits?

Music’s not your thing. How about the fun and excitement of a dinner show at Dixie Stampede or the wonder Sight and Sound’s biblical spectacular, Moses? You and your family will absolutely love what the furry lovable animals at the Amazing Pets Show do. Want a little magic in you entertainment? The Illusionist Rick Thomas show is filled with stunning magic, illusions, and spectacle.

In addition to Branson’s shows, the Branson Entertainment District has many outstanding attractions. Like Branson’s shows, they offer a wide variety of fun and excitement. The Butterfly Palace & Rainforest Adventure, Titanic Museum Attraction, The Branson Ferris Wheel, and the Branson Auto & Farm Museum are just a few.

Branson Tourism Center’s Wood points out that the Branson Entertainment District encompasses more than what is referred to as the “Branson Strip.” She points out that some of Branson’s most popular shows and attractions are not on the strip. These would include shows such as the Million Dollar Quartet and Moses and attractions like Silver Dollar City.

Best Branson Insider Highlights for September 2017

One of the over 115 craftsmen who will be demonstrating at Silver Dollar City’s National Harvest & Cowboy Festival; Clay & Tina Cooper performing in “Clay Cooper’s Country Express;” and the “Oak Ridge Boys.”

“Branson’s beautiful fall foliage season starts in mid-September. The colorful show continues through the middle or end of October,” said Preston Garrison, Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. “That, coupled with cooler temperatures, smaller crowds, and most of its Attractions and Shows being open, make September an ideal time to visit Branson.”

Here’s an insider’s highlight list, containing some of the best of what’s going on in Branson during September, our Featured Show, Limited Engagement, and Event of the Month.”

Featured Show of the Month: Clay Cooper’s Country Express combines the vocal talent and audience charisma of Clay Cooper, with the best dancers and choreography on any Branson stage. This amazing show also includes, the vocal talents of featured female vocalist Kari Garrison, the talent and comedy of Matt Gumm, the rope and gun handling performance of Johnny Lonestar, one of the most talented live bands in Branson, and so much more. It’s two hours of great music, dancing, fun, laughter, and variety that whisks adults and children alike, “down the tracks” on a delightful entertainment journey.

Featured Limited Engagement of the Month: Country music legends, the Oak Ridge Boys return to Branson, with their harmonies and an amazing career spanning several decades. It’s a career including five Grammy Awards, the Song of the Year, from both the “Country Music Association” and the “Academy of Country Music,” for their hit Elvira. Their hits include Touch a Hand, Make a Friend, Make My Life with You, American Made, (I’m Settin’) Fancy Free, It Takes a Little Rain (To Make Love Grow), Bobbie Sue, and many more.

Featured Event of the Month: Silver Dollar City’s National Harvest & Cowboy Festival showcases the largest gathering of demonstrating craftsmen in the country. In addition it features  a Buffalo Bill style Wild West Show; chuck wagon cooking by Kent Rollins; expert horse trainer Fred Woehl taming beautiful wild mustangs; Silver Dollar City’s Barn Dance; and much more.

Limited Engagements (Sorted by starting date)

Sep 1: Ben & Noel Haggard and The Strangers
Sep 16: Tanya Tucker
Sep 18: Larry’s Country Diner-T. Graham Brown
Sep 19: Larry’s Country Diner-Rhonda Vincent
Sep 20-21: Oak Ridge Boys
Sep 20: Larry’s Country Diner-Gene Watson
Sep 21: Larry’s Country Diner-Jimmy Fortune
Sep 22: Larry’s Country Diner-The Isaacs
Sep 23: Righteous Brothers
Sep 29: Charley Pride

Special Event Highlights (Sorted by starting date.)

Sep 1 – Sep 4: Branson Landing’s Annual School Shoes For Kids
Sep 1 – Sep 4: Silver Dollar City Southern Gospel Picnic Festival
Sep 1 – Sep 3: Showboat Branson Belle Labor Day Weekend Cruises
Sep 1: Resurrection: A Journey Tribute – Live in Concert
Sep 1 – Sep 2: American Independent Tae Kwon Do Tournaments
Sep 1 – Sep 2: Treasure Lake RV Resort Wood Carvers Club Show and Sale
Sep 1 – Sep 2: Labor Day Weekend Open House – Branson Mill
Sep 1 – Sep 4: Labor Day Weekend Sale at Tanger Outlets
Sep 1 – Sep 4: Branson Landing Labor Day Weekend Sales
Sep 2: Stars & Stripes K-Life Run
Sep 2 – Sep 3: Generations Tour Hosted by Reflections Art Gallery
Sep 3: Chateau on the Lake Celebrates Labor Day
Sep 4: Doggie Dive-In-Branson RecPlex
Sep 8: Clubs for a Cause Benefiting HOPE Foundation
Sep 8 – Sep 9: Orphan Car Show
Sep 8 – Sep 10: Table Rock Lifted Truck Nationals
Sep 8 – Sep 10: Silver Dollar City Country Music Weekend
Sep 9 – Sep 10: SHOW ME Shakeup 4 Car, Truck, & Bike Show
Sep 10: 9/11 Observance Ceremony
Sep 11: 9/11 Memorial Ceremony
Sep 11: 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony
Sep 11: 9/11 Branson Remembers at the Branson Landing
Sep 13 – Sep 17: CAF AirPower History Tour
Sep 13 – Oct 28: National Craft & Cowboy Festival at Silver Dollar City
Sep 14 – Sep 16: Autumn Daze Arts, Crafts, & Music Festival
Sep 15: Makenna & Brock – Live in Concert
Sep 16: Fall Community Garage Sale
Sep 23: Blues, Brews, & Barbeque Festival
Sep 28 – Oct 1: Wounded Warriors Amputee Softball Team – Kids Camp Reunion
Sep 30: Memorial Stair Climb

For additional information on these events, or any of Branson’s shows and attractions, or for lodging arrangements, please contact the Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services by visiting www.BransonTourismCenter.com, or calling 1-800-785-1550.