Category Archives: Branson Events

$1.7 million Titanic Violin ignites a spectacular Titanic 10th anniversary celebration

Shoji Tabuchi viewing the Wallace Hartley Titanic Violin and paying his respects to his fellow musicians who perished that night.

Shoji Tabuchi viewing the Wallace Hartley Titanic Violin and paying his respects to his fellow musicians who perished that night.

Why would someone pay $1.7 million for a violin that can’t be played and has not played a note in over 100 years? There can’t be too many reasons, but one would surely be because it’s believed to be the very violin played by the Titanic’s bandleader, Wallace Hartley, the night of April 14, 1912 when the RMS Titanic hit an iceberg and sank into the deep depths of the icy north Atlantic, and became a legend for the ages.

“RMS Titanic bandleader Wallace Hartley’s violin has become the iconic symbol of the Titanic saga. Found strapped to his body after the sinking, it was returned to his wife-to-be, only to be lost to the world until it resurfaced almost a century later. Now, for the first time since an unnamed owner took possession of the violin, visitors to the Titanic Museum Attractions will be able to experience, for themselves, the overwhelming sense of emotion it evokes,” says Mary Kellogg-Joslyn, co-owner of the Titanic Attractions.

She also points out that 2016 is the 10th anniversary of the Titanic Museum Attraction’s “setting anchor” in Branson, and to honor the occasion, they are pleased to present a 2016 World Exclusive Exhibit, the display of the $1.7 million Wallace Hartley Titanic Violin; it will be at the museum from March 7 through May 29 along with the only Bible to survive the sinking.# “The Titanic Violin may never be played again,” admits Kellogg. “But one of the final songs Wallace Hartley was said to have been playing during the ship’s final moments can still be heard in our imaginations: ‘Nearer, my God to thee, Nearer to thee…’”

Although the violin exhibit is a major feature of its 10th anniversary celebration, there will be other events at Titanic during the year to honor the occasion. One of these is a special $10.00 admission to the attraction for children ages 5 through 12 throughout all of 2016.

When asked why Branson was picked as the “home port” of the Titanic Museum, Kellogg pointed out that it was a process that started over a decade before its 2006 opening. More than 10 years before that, while serving as the Executive Vice President of Television for The Walt Disney Company, she bought the national TV show “Live With Regis and Kathie Lee,” to the Grand Palace in Branson as the result of a letter received from Steve Presley, on behalf of the Ozark Marketing Council. During the process, a warm friendship with the Presleys developed and Mary and her husband John fell in love with Table Rock Lake. As a result, they kept in contact with the Presleys and came back to Branson and Table Rock Lake every 4th of July.

Through the years, her husband John, who had been touring with the Titanic artifacts throughout Europe and the United States, thought that they needed a permanent location for display. When he decided it was time, their love of Branson and friendship with the Presleys, along with the demographics of the Branson visitor, made Branson an ideal location. The museum opened in 2006 and the rest is history.

“Congratulations to the Titanic Museum Attraction on the occasion of its 10th anniversary in Branson, and on being able to obtain a 2016 World Exclusive Exhibit, the display of the $1.7 million Wallace Hartley Titanic Violin,” said Annette Wood, Director of Sales and Marketing for the Branson Tourism Center. “What a blessing the Titanic Museum Attraction has been for Branson and its visitor as it honors those who were on board by telling their stories in a special and dignified way, while providing Branson visitors of all ages with a special, unique, and fun-filled experience they’ll never forget,” she added.

For additional information or tickets for the Titanic Museum Attraction, or any of Branson’s other shows and attractions, or for lodging arrangements, please feel free to contact the Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services; call 1-800-785-1550 or visit www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

# From June 7 through Labor Day Weekend the violin will be on display at the Titanic’s sister ship in Pigeon Forge, TN

 

Best Branson Insider Highlights for February 2016

Grand Jubilee's award wining quartet, "New South."

Grand Jubilee’s award wining quartet, “New South.”

“The four-day combined Valentine’s Day/President’s Day weekend in the middle of the month highlights both the romance of Branson and its signature live shows,” said Annette Wood, Director of Sales and Marketing for the Branson Tourism Center. Romance is in the air as Branson celebrates Valentine’s day; a time when many of our most popular shows are opening for their 2016 Season,” she added.

Wouldn’t your sweetheart absolutely love an awesome Valentine’s Day in Branson? From the Titanic Museum Attraction’s celebration of Romance Month, to the Keeter Center’s Valentine’s Day Dinner and Dancing, to special Valentine’s Day menus at restaurants, the answer to that rhetorical question just has to be, “Yes!” In addition, many of Branson’s Most Popular Shows are welcoming the 2016 season that weekend.

Here’s our Featured Show and Event of the Month, along with a list of the major events you can enjoy in Branson during February, 2016:

Featured Show of the Month is Grand Jubilee, which has been performing its 2016 show since premiering on New Year’s Eve. Remarkably, this talented cast of producers, vocalists, musicians, and technicians develop and rehearse the next year’s show, at the same time they are performing their Christmas Show, so that it can be presented on New Year’s Eve. Branson’s “Grand Jubilee” boasts tight harmonies and a variety of musical styles; a show custom-made for all ages! Enjoy the dynamic performance of the quartet New South, female vocalist Jackie Brown, and the sound of the Grand Band as they perform it all, from country and gospel, to rock & roll favorites! Jamie Haage, aka “Jim Dandy,” and emcee extraordinaire, Mike Patrick, will keep you in stitches!

Event of the Month: The four-day combined Valentine’s/Day President’s Day weekend presents an ideal time for a winter getaway to Branson, where the feeling of romance will be in the air along with everything else Branson is noted for, including live shows, attractions, shopping and much more.

SPECIAL EVENT HIGHLIGHTS (Sorted by starting date.)

Feb 1                           Hot Winter Fun Big Show
Feb 1 – Feb 29            Sweetheart Month at Titanic Museum Attraction
Feb 8 – Feb 21            Tanger Outlets Share the LOVE Event
Feb 12 – Feb 14          The 20th Annual Branson Tri-Lakes Building & Home Show
Feb 12 – Feb 14          Valentines at Chateau Grille
Feb 12 – Feb 15          Presidents Day Weekend Sale – Tanger Outlets
Feb 12 – Feb 15         Valentine’s Weekend in Branson
Feb 14                         Valentine’s Day Dinner & Dancing – Keeter Center
Feb 26 – Feb 28          25th Ann.VisionCon – Gaming, Science Fiction…Convention
Feb 27                         Vince Elfrink Memorial Tournament – Lilleys’ Landing

Due to the possibility of winter weather, seasonal show and attraction schedules, and the fact that some Branson lodging facilities are just opening for their 2016 season, Branson Tourism Center’s Wood suggests that that an easy way to avoid problems; save time and, in many cases, money, as well as making sure you have the most current information, is by simply calling the Branson Tourism Center toll-free at 1-800-785-1550 and talking with one of its Branson-based vacation planning specialists. They’ll be delighted to answer any questions and assist you with show or lodging reservations. There is absolutely no charge for this service.

Five things you really need to know about having a fabulous Christmas Week in Branson!

Many of Branson's most popular shows will be open Christmas Week.

Many of Branson’s most popular shows will be open Christmas Week.

“Branson is famous for its live entertainment, attractions, shopping, fun, and other exciting activities,” said Annette Wood, the Director of Sales and Marketing for the Branson Tourism Center. “Christmas Week, the week between Christmas and New Year’s Day, is filled with all the things that Branson is famous for…and then some,” she continued.

Here’s a list of five things you should know about spending Christmas Week in Branson:

1. Many Branson Shows are still performing: Although many of Branson’s shows are closed for the season, a number of its most popular shows are open during Christmas Week. This includes such shows as The Acrobats of China, Amazing Pets, Billy Dean in Concert with Jarrett Clay Cooper’s Country Express, Comedy Jamboree, Dixie Stampede, Grand Jubilee, Hamner’s Unbelievable Variety, The Haygoods, Sight and Sound’s spectacular Jonah, Hughes Brothers Christmas Show, Legends in Concert, Paul Harris and the Cleverlys, Pierce Arrow, the Showboat Branson Belle, and many more.

2. The vast majority of Branson Attractions are open: The vast majority of Branson’s attractions will be open. This includes its oldest and most popular paid attraction, the international award-winning Silver Dollar City presenting its “Old Time Christmas;” the Titanic Museum Attraction decked out for its beautiful “Christmas and Winter Celebration;” the unique White Flight exhibit at the Butterfly Palace & Rainforest Adventure; the National Tiger Sanctuary; Branson’s Promised Land Zoo, and others.

3. All major Branson Christmas lighting displays will still be aglow: All the major lighting displays including Shepherd of the Hills Trail of Lights, the giant 30 foot nativity scene on top of Mount Branson overlooking Lake Taneycomo, Branson Landing and Historic Downtown Branson, and the Ozark Mountain Christmas Lights & Village will continue throughout the week.

4. Shop ‘til you drop: – Branson’s shopping experience is legendary and Christmas Week is no exception. From the unique Branson Landing, with its 100 retail stores, to the shops of Historic Downtown Branson, featuring Dicks 5 & 10; from outlet centers such as Tanger Outlets and The Shoppes at Branson Meadows, to the dozens of specialty shops offering arts and crafts and one- of-a-kind items, Branson’s Christmas Week shopping will satisfy the most avid shopper.

151124 CoClayGoods 2015

5. New Year’s Eve Fun: In addition to New Year’s Eve Dinner & Dancing – Keeter Center, and other area celebrations welcoming in the New Year, the following shows will have special New Year’s Eve celebrations:

Big Cedar Resort’s New Years Eve Celebrations
Chateau on the Lake New Years Eve Celebration
Clay-Goods Jambor-Eve
Doug Gabriel’s #1 Hits Tribute Show
Grand Jubilee
Hughes Brothers
Legends in Concert
Million Dollar Quartet
Pierce Arrow
Hamners’ Unbelievable Variety

BTC’s Wood points out that the weather, Show schedules, and the fact that some Branson lodging facilities are closed should be considered when planning your trip. She suggests that an easy way to avoid problems, make sure you have the most current information, save time and, in many cases, money, is by simply 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 be delighted to answer any questions and assist you with show or lodging reservations. There is absolutely no charge for this service.

5 things you need to know about Branson’s beautiful drive-thru Christmas Light displays

Just a few of the beautiful Christmas light displays lighting up the Ozark Hills.

Just a few of the beautiful Christmas light displays you will experience.

From Silver Dollar City to Branson Landing and the top of Mount Branson, Branson will be aglow with the spirit and lights of Christmas on trees, poles, and displays during Ozark Mountain Christmas. Silver Dollar City’s Old Time Christmas is by far Branson’s biggest light display, with more than five million Christmas lights transforming the 1880’s styled theme park into a glittering Christmas wonderland.

Next, in terms of total lights and displays, as well as excitement and fun, would be the Drive-thru Christmas light displays. Here are five things you should know about Branson’s Drive-thru displays:

1. The two largest and most unique: Ozark Mountain Christmas Lights and Village and Trail of Lights are the biggest and most unique Branson Drive-thru displays, with each providing a totally different experience from the other.

2. Operation Schedule/Hours of operation: Ozark Mountain Christmas Lights and Village will be open from 5:30 PM to 11:30 PM, seven days a week from November 5 through December 27. The Trail of Lights will be open from 5:30 PM to Midnight, seven days a week from November 1 through December 31.

3. Trail of Lights Overview: Drive through the historic Shepherd of the Hills Homestead with Christmas light displays that run from touchingly subtle to elaborate and exciting, themes from traditional to contemporary, and employing brilliant lights, delightful animation, and your favorite holiday music. They include characters in different types of buildings…you can take a peek at the Christmas-time activities taking place inside; many animated scenes, and many magnificently lighted displays. Also included is a trip to the top of the 230 foot Inspiration Tower with it’s a sensational view of Branson all aglow with holiday cheer!

4. Ozark Mountain Christmas Lights and Village Overview: Your adventure starts with a leisurely drive through, a magical musical mile and a half of hundreds of thousands of glittering, glowing Christmas lights on amazing displays. This unique drive-thru offers options other than driving through in your own vehicle, such as two-seater scooters, or in a carriage or wagon pulled by a Clydesdale!

And the amazing holiday experience at Ozark Mountain Christmas Lights and Village isn’t over after you drive through; an incredible Christmas village awaits you at the end! Discover 6,000 square feet of holiday cheer that stimulates the senses…hear the Christmas music…see the beautiful decor…smell the delicious aromas…taste the tantalizing treats like gourmet hot chocolate or hot cider, freshly made kettle corn and Bavarian nuts, and other tempting sweets and treats.”

In addition, the village has several complimentary features, like Selfies with Santa, occasional storytelling sessions with Branson historian, author, and storyteller extraordinaire, Bud Lynn; and a stunning, life-sized animated nativity to remind us all of the true reason for this glorious season. And, for a few belly laughs, check out the cacklin’ animated chickens that sing Christmas songs! Other activities available include family photos taken by a professional photographer, and the North Pole Express, a train ride that kids and adults can enjoy together!

5. Branson Christmas Shows and Drive-thru Christmas displays: The hours of operation of the drive-thru displays allow plenty of time to see one of Branson’s Great Christmas shows, whether you go to the show before or after; what better way to experience Christmas in Branson than by combining both!

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

How many of these October 2015 Branson Highlights would you like to see?

The amazing Clay Cooper performing "Crying."

The amazing Clay Cooper performing “Crying.”

“During the month of October, Branson’s shows aren’t the only live entertainment in town. Mother Nature will be putting on a pretty special show of her own as she paints the Ozark Mountains with beautiful fall colors,” said Annette Wood, the Director of Sales and Marketing for the Branson Tourism Center. “What a beautiful compliment to the live entertainment, attractions, shopping, and other activities that Branson offers,” she added.

Here’s a list highlighting the major special events and limited engagement performances you can enjoy in Branson during October, 2015, as well as our Featured Show, Event, and Limited Engagement of the month:

Featured Show: Clay Cooper’s Country Express: “Clay Cooper’s Country Express” has everything you want in a great Branson show! With 24 veteran entertainers, there’s a variety of singing, dancing, comedy, and music. Backed by a live, 7 piece band, you’ll hear country and pop hits from the likes of George Jones, Hunter Hayes, the Doobie Brothers, and Bruno Mars!

The Texas Tenors, Marcus Collins, right, John Hagen, and JC Fisher .

The Texas Tenors, Marcus Collins, right, John Hagen, and JC Fisher .

Featured Limited Engagement: The Texas Tenors: “The Texas Tenors” continue to be one of Branson’s most popular acts! Ever since we met the extremely talented and exceptionally charming trio of handsome troubadours on America’s Got Talent, they’ve been delighting fans with several genres of music; country, gospel, pop, Broadway, and classical. Enjoy favorites like Rocky Top, Unchained Melody and many more, including a spectacular medley from Les Misérables.

Featured Event: Mother Nature’s Ozark Fall Spectacular: From the first tint of color, until the last leaf falls, the fall foliage of the Ozark Mountains provides one of Mother Nature’s most amazing and beautiful shows. If the past is any indication, and everything keeps on going like it’s been going, visitors to Branson can expect a spectacular fall foliage show this year!

LIMITED ENGAGEMENT HIGHLIGHTS

Oct 1 – 31: Wake Up with Yakov
Oct 2 – 4: Boot Daddy Presents Rhonda Vincent
Oct 4: Loretta Lynn and Johnny Rodriguez
Oct 6 – 14: The Texas Tenors
Oct 7 – 9: Boot Daddy Presents Suzy Boggus
Oct 9 – 10: Boot Daddy Presents Mark Bilyeu and Cindy Woolf
Oct 11: Tanya Tucker
Oct 16 – 17: Larry Gatlin & the Gatlin Brothers
Oct 17: Kenny Rogers
Oct 18: Ronnie Milsap and Janie Fricke
Oct 19 – 31: The Hits starring the Osmonds
Oct 20 – 22: Boot Daddy Presents Gene Watson
Oct 24: Don Williams
Oct 25: Moe Bandy & Joe Stampley
Oct 26 – 27: Boot Daddy Presents Jimmy Fortune
Oct 28 – 29: Boot Daddy Presents Dailey & Vincent

SPECIAL EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

Oct 1 – 31: National Harvest & Cowboy Festival at Silver Dollar City
Oct 1 – Oct 3: Bassmasters Central Open
Oct 10: Hollister Grape Festival
Oct 19 – 31: Tanger Mall FB – Kids Halloween Photo Contest
Oct 23 – 25: Branson Balloon Dayz 417-336-6060
Oct 24: VVA Trout Fishing Tournament
Oct 31: Branson Landing’s Safe Street Trick or Treat 417-239-3002
Oct 31: Tanger Outlets Tanger-ween!

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 calling 1-800-785-1550, or by visiting www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

 

Mother Nature’s amazing Ozark’s Fall Foliage Show premiering soon in Branson

The first blush of the color to come spreads across a scenic Ozark vista.

The first blush of the color to come spreads across a scenic Ozarks vista.

For a limited time, Branson’s shows won’t be the only live entertainment in Branson! From the first tint of color, until the last leaf falls, the fall foliage of the Ozark Mountains provide one of Mother Nature’s most amazing and beautiful shows. If the past is any indication, and everything keeps on going like it’s been going, visitors to Branson can expect a spectacular fall foliage show this year!

Frances Main, a Forester with the Missouri Department of Conservation, said that the moisture this summer, all the good leaves on the trees, and the weather thus far portends a good foliage season that should peak during about the second week in October. She points out that it’s the cool nights followed by bright sunny days that really help bring out the brilliant colors; it starts in mid-September when species such as Walnut and Hickory start changing and really coloring up; the Oaks, Maples, Persimmon, and other trees and bushes start to change shortly thereafter. Click here for more information on “Why Leaves Change Color” from the Missouri Department of Conservation.

“It will be a magnificent, one-of-a-kind sight to behold,” said Annette Wood, the Director of Sales and Marketing for the Branson Tourism Center.  “One of our most asked questions is, ‘What’s the best way to see the foliage?'” Wood says that one of the neat things about the fall foliage in the Branson area is that there really is no one best way to see it because just about everywhere one turns they will be surrounded by its vibrant, colorful beauty.

That said, however, Wood points out that it’s hard to top the magnificent view of the Ozark’s foliage from the lofty heights of the 230-foot-tall Inspiration Tower. Located on top of Inspiration Point at the Shepherd of the Hills Homestead, one of the highest points in southwest Missouri, it provides a unique and unparalleled panoramic view of the Ozarks’ countryside. Glass elevators transport guests up to the enclosed observation deck from which, on a clear day, they can see over 90 miles covering hundreds of square miles that presents a spectacular view of the fall foliage not available anywhere else.

There are a number of “Scenic Lookouts” that provide a superb panoramic view of the Ozark’s fall foliage. These include the Lookouts on State Route 165, about a mile south of its intersection with State Route 265, the Table Rock Dam Overlook, located on the south end of Table Rock Dam across the road from the Visitors Center, and the Henning Conservation Area Lookout, located about a mile west of the junction of State Route 76 and State Route 376 on the north side of the road.

Another excellent panoramic view of Branson’s beautiful fall colors is provided at “Point Lookout” on the campus of the College of the Ozarks. Located on top of a bluff overlooking Lake Taneycomo, it provides a unique view of Branson’s fall foliage not available anywhere else. With the lake as a backdrop, it’s simply breathtaking. While at the college, you might want to eat at the Keeter Center, visit the Edwards Grist Mill, or enjoy the Ralph Foster Museum.

Branson Tourism Center’s Wood also suggests two other ways to enjoy the fall colors in Branson: from the vintage dome cars of the Branson Scenic Railway, and from the deck of the Showboat Branson Belle on Table Rock Lake. They both provide unique panoramic views of Branson’s fall foliage.

27th Annual Fiddle Festival to be an amazing Branson Grand event at new venue

Wayne Massengale, renowned Branson fiddler, will host the competition.

Wayne Massengale, renowned Branson fiddler, will host the competition.

When the bow glides across the strings of the first fiddler in Branson’s 27th Annual Fiddle Festival, it will be the beginning of a Grand new era. Formerly held in either historic downtown Branson or at Branson Landing, basically under outdoor weather-dependent conditions, the Festival, running from August 28-30, will have a new home this year at the Grand Country Music Hall, located in the middle of the famed Branson Strip.

Mike Patrick, General Manager & Producer of the Grand Jubilee and the other shows performing in the Grand Country Music Hall, will be producing the Festival. Patrick said, “We are so honored and excited about hosting the Fiddle Festival. It just seems so neat that Grand Country, the home of the world’s biggest fiddle and Branson’s Fiddling Sweethearts, Wayne Massengale and Melody Hart, will be hosting this event. What a great weekend of fun, fiddling, and competition it promises to be!

Patrick points out that the actual competition will be conducted in the Grand Country Music Hall, the home of all Grand Country’s shows, and will be hosted by noted Branson Fiddler Wayne Massengale, widely known for his showmanship and fiddle playing skills; he won Branson Fiddler of the Year five times, as well as the Arkansas State Championship, and the Society for the Preservation of Bluegrass Music Association (SPBGMA) Most Promising Fiddler award.

The Fiddlers will be competing for cash and the coveted title of Mid-America Fiddle Champion. The preliminary rounds will be held on August 29th with the Division Finals and the Championship Round Robin Competition to crown the overall Champion on Sunday, August 30th.

The schedule for the Festival, subject to change, is:

Aug. 28 – 5:00 PM: Anything Goes Contest!

The fun-filled weekend kicks off with this get-ready-for-anything “open-mic” event being held in Grand Country’s parking lot. Here, Cross-tuning, Trick, and Fancy Fiddling is allowed, and the applause meter will decide the four winners of the $50 to $300 prizes that will be awarded.

Aug. 29 – 9:00 AM: Mid-America Fiddle Preliminary Rounds

Competition begins in the Grand Country Music Hall featuring six different divisions of competition with awards and the opportunity to advance to the Finals.

Divisions include:

Pee-Wee (10 and under): 6 places awarded ($15 – $100)
Junior (11 – 16): 6 places advance to Finals.
Accompanist: 5 places awarded ($50 – $300)
Senior (60 & over): 3 places awarded ($100 – $300)
Adult (17 – 59): 5 places advance to Finals.
Open: 6 places advance to Finals.

The winners of the Pee-Wee, Accompanist, and Senior Divisions are awarded cash prizes while those making the top six in the Junior, Open and the top five in the Adult Divisions all advance to the finals.

Aug. 30 – 1:00 PM: Mid-America Division Finals and Championship.

Junior (10 – 16): 6 places awarded ($50 – $400)
Adult (17 – 60): 5 places awarded ($100 – $600)
Open: 6 places awarded ($100 – $800)

The top three will advance to Round Robin Competition at 4:00 PM to compete for the overall title of Mid-America Fiddle Champion, an additional $1,000 prize and a Championship Belt Buckle.

“It’s great to see the continuation of this event that celebrates our Ozarks history and heritage,” said Annette Wood, Director of Sales and Marketing for the Branson Tourism Center. “The new venue at Grand Country, with all its live shows, central location on the Branson Strip, and production capability, will make this great event even more fun and exciting for the competitors as well as for those attending,” she added.

For more information about the Fiddle Festival, or registering to become a contestant, please call Grand Country at 417-335-3535.

Five reasons why your family should spend the Fourth of July in Branson

Main Street Lake Cruises "Lake Queen" plying the waters of Lake Taneycomo.

Main Street Lake Cruises “Lake Queen” plying the waters of Lake Taneycomo.

“The Fourth of July is a special time throughout our Nation as we celebrate our independence, but it just seems a little more so in Branson because of the feeling of God, Country, and Family that permeates the very spirit of Branson’s fun and excitement, helping make it the special place it is,” said Annette Wood, Director of Sales and Marketing for the Branson Tourism Center. “Fun, fun, fun, fun, and more fun would be five great reasons for families to visit Branson, not only for the Fourth of July, but any time during the summer. Here’s five specific ways for your family to have fun, celebrate the Fourth of July, and create some great memories together,” she added:

1. Firework Displays: Fourth of July Firework displays actually start with the College of the Ozarks Honor America Celebration on June 28 followed by displays lighting up the skies over Hollister, Lake Taneycomo, Table Rock Lake and Kimberling City on either the third or fourth of July. The article entitled These five Branson “4th of July” fireworks displays will absolutely amaze you contains details and contact information about five of the area’s biggest displays. Main Street Lake Cruises offers a unique and beautiful way to view the Branson Landing and Rockaway Beach firework displays while cruising on the Lake Queen or the Landing Princess.

2. Silver Dollar City’s “Star Spangled Summer Festival”: Designed especially for kids of all ages, the festival is in full swing, including a full slate of kid’s programs like the “Globetrotter Experience” starring the world famous Harlem Globetrotters.® All the festival’s activities are in addition to everything else the world class theme park offers on a daily basis including its new $8 million Fireman’s Landing with 10 great new activities and rides for the whole family.

3. Cruise aboard Main Street Lake Cruise’s Lake Queen: On a hot summer day, very few things can compare with the relaxation and enjoyment of a sightseeing cruise aboard the riverboat replica Lake Queen while enjoying temperatures considerably cooler than the surrounding area because of the cold waters of Lake Taneycomo. Each 1.5 hour narrated cruise is as different as a snowflake in terms of the wildlife and birds seen, which can range from Bald Eagles and deer to any one of dozens of others abounding on Lake Taneycomo’s shoreline. You will see amazing natural bluffs stretching back into the eons of time and the spectacular majesty of Ozark vistas viewable only from Lake Taneycomo and not seen by the vast majority of the millions of visitors that come to Branson each year. Each cruise provides a lakeside view of Branson Landing, its $7.5 million fountains, and a spectacular synchronized fire, water, light, and music show that is as unique as it is beautiful and inspiring.

4. Moonshine Beach: Located within minutes of the famed Branson Strip, Moonshine Beach, operated for the public by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, is just off the north end of Table Rock Dam on State Highway 165. Its large sandy beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or beach volleyball. Its other amenities include picnic tables, food vendors, a boat launching ramp, showers, flush toilets, a large picnic shelter, and a kid’s playground.

5. White Water: With over 13 acres and 2 million gallons of water, White Water is a wet, tropically themed wonderland of fun and adventure for the whole family. Whether it’s “Splashaway Cay” and “Coconut Grove” for the smaller children and toddlers, the excitement of sliding down the seven story “Kalani Towers,” or the thrill of the drops and speed of rides such as “KaPau Plummet,” “Pipeline Plunge,” or the “Raging River Rapids,” there is an adventure for every member of the family at White Water.

Branson Tourism Center’s Wood advises that the summer season is extremely busy in Branson, and suggests making advance reservations for Branson lodging and shows to ensure not only availability, but the best accommodations and seating. Please feel free to call Branson Tourism Center’s Branson-based Travel Planners at 1-800-785-1550; they’ll be delighted to assist you in any way they can, from answering questions to actually reserving your tickets and lodging for you.

Please feel free to call Branson Tourism Center’s Branson-based Travel Planners at 1-800-785-1550; they’ll be delighted to assist you in any way they can, from answering questions to actually reserving your tickets and lodging for you.

What’s “Buzzin in Branson” during July 2015

The "Million Dollar Quartet" is Branson's newest show and "hottest" ticket

The “Million Dollar Quartet” is Branson’s newest show and “hottest” ticket

“Buzzin in Branson” is a concise and easy to read list of major events and activities taking place in Branson, Missouri during the month being “Buzzed.” Each issue contains the “Branson Buzz of the Month,” and a list of the major special events, shows, and activities for the month. Branson “Buzz of the Month for July 2015 Skies around the Branson area will be ablaze with fireworks for the 4th of July; families are loving Disney’s “The Little Mermaid;” and one of Branson’s hottest tickets is its newest show, the Million Dollar Quartet, a Tony® Award-winning musical that tells the heartwarming story of how fate brought Johnny Cash, Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Carl Perkins together for a once-in-a-lifetime celebration that became one of the most memorable nights in music history, December 4, 1956. The following list of major special events, shows, and activities taking place in Branson during July is sorted by event date and contains pertinent and timely comments and contact information, through either a link or phone number, that can be used to obtain additional information where appropriate:

“Buzzin in Branson” is published monthly by the Branson Tourism Center as a service to its customers and others interested in what’s going on in Branson; it gives them a “heads up” about what’s happening over the next 30 days. If you have any further questions about these events or want information or tickets for any of Branson’s shows, attractions, or lodging, please contact Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services, by calling 1-800-785-1550 or visiting www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

What do you get when you combine Bluegrass, BBQ and Silver Dollar City?

Seven time IBMA Female vocalist of the year, Rhonda Vincent and her award winning band "The Rage" are just one of 40 groups performing thoughout Silver Dollar City's "Bluegrass & BBQ."

Seven time IBMA Female vocalist of the year, Rhonda Vincent and her award winning band “The Rage” is just one of 40 groups performing throughout Silver Dollar City’s “Bluegrass & BBQ.”

Silver Dollar City’s “Bluegrass and BBQ” (Festival). The Festival combines the fun and excitement of an award winning world class theme park with a Bluegrass music event that has been awarded the “Bluegrass Event of the Year” by the International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) and the great tastes of a variety of succulent slow cooked BBQ. Bluegrass and BBQ begins on May 7 and runs through Memorial Day, May 25.

In terms of Bluegrass music there is nothing like it. Nancy Cardwell, the Executive Director of the IBMA, 2012-2014, said that the Festival “presents more bluegrass bands on multiple stages to more new audiences than any other event in the nation.” This year the Festival will feature “more than 40 bands on multiple stages throughout the park, with international award-winning musicians, Grammy nominees, fan favorites and chart-climbing new bands coming for the festival.”

This includes Rhonda Vincent, seven time IBMA Female vocalist of the year and her band “The Rage,” who won 2015 SPBGMA Awards for “Bluegrass Band of the Year; “Entertainer of the Year”, “Female Vocalist of the Year (Contemporary)” with their fiddler, Hunter Berry, winning “Fiddle Performer of the Year.” Along with dozens of other performers the following will also be performing, “Balsam Range, winners of the 2014 IBMA Entertainer of the Year and Male Vocalist of the Year; Blue Highway, with 15-time IBMA Dobro Player of the Year and 2014 Songwriter of the Year; and the Grascals, two-time IBMA Entertainer of the Year.

“Newer artists include Flatt Lonesome, Driven, The Lindsey Family, The Baker Family and The Willis Clan, featured on America’s Got Talent and starring in their own show on the TLC network. Unique artists include The Kruger Brothers, bluegrass musicians from Switzerland, whose repertoire ranges from traditional bluegrass to Bach to R&B songs.

“Spotlighting the next generation of bluegrass talent, the park presents an annual Youth in Bluegrass band contest, set for May 23, with 21 bands from around the country competing for honors.” It should be noted that the performers will be appearing at different times during the Festival. Click here for a complete schedule of performances.

There will be plenty of mouth watering BBQ and the "fixins."

There will be plenty of mouth watering BBQ and the “fixins.”

Of course some of the finest BBQ around plays a big part in the Festival. “The House of BBQ,” located in the “Red Gold Heritage Hall,” features a variety of BBQ including slow-cooked pulled pork, ribs, chicken and brisket cooked on the parks massive 20-foot wood-fired smoker. Its new “Rib Extravaganza” features a variety of preparations such as Memphis Dry Rub – Traditional Spices; Root Beer Glaze – Sweet & Subtle; Cajun Rub – A Taste of New Orleans and Hawaiian Style – Mango-Pineapple Glaze. Want an all you can eat “Rib Fest?” Then the “All-You-Care-To-Eat Rib Feast,” in “Reunion Hall” located right next to “Molly’s Mill Restaurant,” served family style, from 3:00 p.m. until closing each day, fits the bill. The BBQ associated with the Festival is in addition to all of the other excellent food served throughout the park on a daily basis.

“But it gets better,” said Annette Wood, the Director of Sales and Marketing for the Branson Tourism Center. “All of the music and BBQ featured during the Festival is in addition to everything else the award winning 1880s styled theme park is famous for,” she added.

Silver Dollar City has over 40 rides and attractions, with four world class coasters, including it’s wooden coaster, “Outlaw Run,” with its initial 162 foot 81 degree drop and number seven ranking on the list of the “World’s Top 50 Wood Coasters;” dozens of demonstrating craftsmen; unique shopping and great live shows and entertainment. New in 2015 is the nearly two acre, $8 million Fireman’s Landing, with six new rides and four interactive activities designed for “kids ages 3 to 93!”

For additional information on Silver Dollar City or its “Bluegrass & BBQ Festival,” or any of Branson’s other shows and attractions or for lodging arrangements please contact the Branson Tourism Center by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.