Category Archives: Branson Attractions

What is Branson’s most unique attraction?

Dick's 5 & 10 in historic downtown Branson provides one of the most unique shopping "adventures" available anywhere.

BRANSON, Mo., November 15, 2012 — A question commonly asked is along the lines of “What is Branson’s “most unique attraction? The one thing that I must see or do while in Branson?”

In a town like Branson, with so many exciting and fun things to do that is not an easy question to answer. First when one applies the common definition of Attraction, “something that attracts or is intended to attract people by appealing to their desires and tastes,” to the question, Branson itself is a unique attraction among family travel destinations. Where else can one go and enjoy all it has to offer from its live shows, “attractions,” lakes, natural beauty and shopping all located so closely together.

In terms of “attractions,” as most would use the word, the award winning 1880’s styled theme park Silver Dollar City, Branson’s oldest and most popular paid attraction certainly stands out. With its dozens of rides, shows, ongoing entertainment, world class festivals, virtually seamless integration into the surrounding Ozark Hills, demonstrating craftsmen and having a National Natural Landmark, Marvel Cave within the park it is not only one of Branson’s most unique attractions, but one of the most unique theme parks in the world.

Branson’s Titanic Museum Attraction, with the great ship towering above the Branson strip, its remarkable displays, the ability of the crew to bring the events of that fateful voyage to life and, of course, its two loveable mascots Molly and Carter make it another of Branson’s unique attractions. A sightseeing cruise aboard Main Street Cruise Lines Lake Queen on beautiful Lake Taneycomo to the amazing bluffs evidencing how the Ozark Mountains were formed and are still a work in progress is another unique adventure.

To the list of Branson Attractions however must be added an attraction of another kind, Branson’s live shows. In fact, a recent Branson CVB study showed that the number one thing people see when they come to Branson is live shows. A cursory examination of a list of Branson Shows, performing during its season, indicates a variety and number of shows that is amazing. When coupled with the quality of the shows it is easy to understand why some call Branson the”Live music show capital of the world” and why its live shows are such a unique Branson attraction.

Many are attracted to Branson by its shopping. Sure, just about every travel destination offers shopping, but how many have an authentic 50 year old 5 & 10, a vibrant historic downtown shopping district and modern shopping attraction such as Branson Landing, with its 100 retail shops, restaurants and seven million dollar fire, water and synchronized music fountain show, located within three blocks of each other. Each of those is a unique attraction by itself, but in combination with each other offer one of the most unique shopping experiences available anywhere. And that’s not counting the hundreds of other retail, craft, fashion and specialty stores located throughout Branson.

These are just highlights of what “attracts” millions of visitors to Branson each year. What is Branson’s most unique attraction and what one thing should people see when they are in Branson? Well, in this writers opinion Branson’s most unique attraction is all that it has to offer and the one thing people should see or do while in Branson is experience as much of that uniqueness and what it has to offer as possible.

There’s more than turkey cooking for Thanksgiving in Branson

The "Andy Williams Christmas Show" is just one of the spectacular Branson shows that will be open on Thanksgiving Day.

BRANSON, Mo., November 10, 2012 — Oh there’s plenty of turkey to be had in Branson on Thanksgiving Day at one of its many fine restaurants or buffets. The neat thing about Branson however, is that after you eat, and perhaps catch a quick nap,or not, there is so much more to see and do.

“The celebration of Branson’s Ozark Mountain Christmas continues right through Thanksgiving Day and its long weekend to the end of the year” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. “With drive through Christmas lighting displays; Silver Dollar City’s Old Time Christmas Festival; the majority of its attractions and live shows open, great shopping and the wide choice of exciting fun filled things it offers for the whole family, Branson is the ideal place to spend your Thanksgiving,” she continued.

From the wonders of Silver Dollar City’s An Old Time Christmas or an exciting “voyage” aboard the Titanic Museum Attraction with its “Fantasy Princess” bringing “new Holiday Magic to Branson,” butterflies to tigers, cruises to Go Karts, mini golf to 18 hole championship golf courses and much more, Thanksgiving in Branson is filled with exciting attractions and activities for the whole family to enjoy. Among others, these include the following which are sorted alphabetically:

Adventure Ziplines of Branson

Branson Limousine Christmas Light Tour

Butterfly Palace & Rainforest Adventure

Castle of Chaos

Hannah’s Maze of Mirrors

Hollywood Wax Museum

IMAX Adventure Films

Inspiration Tower

Main Street Lake Cruises Landing Princess

National Tiger Sanctuary

Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum

Shoot for the Stars Mini Golf

Silver Dollar City

The Track Family Fun Parks

Titanic Museum Attraction

Trail of Lights

Vigilante Ziprider

Branson’s two major drive through Christmas Lighting displays, the Branson Area Festival of Lights and Shepherd of the Hills Trail of Lights will also be open for the enjoyment of Branson visitors. Each is filled with spectacular displays containing millions of sparkling Christmas lights.

As would be expected in the “Live music show capital of the world,” there will be a full slate of Branson’s live shows offering Branson famed live entertainment available on Thanksgiving day as well as over the Thanksgiving weekend. The following list of Branson shows scheduled to be open on Thanksgiving Day is sorted by time. The full schedule of Branson shows will resume on Friday, November 23. Click here for complete information, schedules, pictures, or tickets on any of Branson’s shows.

10:00 am

A Tribute to John Denver

Cat’s Pajamas – Vocal Band

Christmas in Hollywood

Fountains of Faith

Hughes Brothers Christmas Show

10:30 am

A Neil Diamond Tribute

1:00 pm

Fountains of Faith

2:00 pm

A Tribute to Marty Robbins

Doo Wop and Chico Vega Drifters

Lennon Sisters Christmas Show

Paul Harris & The Cleverlys

Tribute to Four Seasons and The Beach Boys

3:00 pm

Acrobats of China featuring New Shanghai Circus

Amazing Pets

Dixie Stampede

Legends in Concert

4:00 pm

Showboat Branson Belle

5:00 pm

Absolutely Patsy

Johnny Cash Songbook

Yakov’s Dinner Adventure

5:15 pm

Christmas on the Trail

6:00 pm

Comedy Hypnosis Dinner Show

7:00 pm

Motown Downtown

7:30 pm

3 Redneck Tenors

Andy Williams Christmas Show

8:00 pm

Clay Cooper’s Country Music Express

Dixie Stampede

Duttons

Hamner Barber Variety Show

Jim Stafford

Kirby VanBurch

Legends in Concert

Sanders Family Christmas

Tony Orlando Christmas

Twelve Irish Tenors

Anchored by its two major outlet malls, Tanger Outlets, and The Shoppes at Branson Meadows, Branson Landing and featuring a variety of specialty stores, Branson provides an unique unrivaled shopping experience. From the specialty stores, shops and galleries of historic downtown Branson and surrounding areas to specialty gifts made by the craftsmen at Silver Dollar City and from stores as unique as Dick’s Old Time 5 & 10 to the national chains at Branson Landing it’s hard to imagine a more exciting and unique shopping experience than in Branson, particularly during Ozark Mountain Christmas.

Branson Tourism Center’s Johnson suggests advance reservations for shows and lodging over the Thanksgiving weekend pointing out that Ozark Mountain Christmas is one of the busiest time of the year in Branson. For additional information on any of Branson’s shows, attractions activities or for lodging arrangements please feel free to contact the Branson Tourism Center,one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

Titanic birthday celebration for Branson’s most cuddly celebrities “Molly” and “Carter”

Molly and Carter ready to party.*

BRANSON, Mo., November 7, 2012 — In a town filled with celebrities of every variety what makes the birthday of two dogs so special? Is it because they are the mascots of the Titanic World’s Largest Museum Attraction? Is it because they represent the dogs that were aboard the Titanic when she sank; that they are so cute and cuddly; just love meeting and interacting with the guests who visit the Titanic each day or something else? If those two dogs just happen to be “Molly” and “Carter,” this writer feels safe in saying that it is a wonderful combination of the above and simply because they are two of the warmest, most personable and cuddly animal celebrities in Branson or anywhere else.

During a recent interview with Kelli Sanders their head trainer, she said that Molly and Carter, who are “King Charles Spaniels,” both female, are “sisters” and were born on different days about a month apart, will be celebrating a special joint 4th Birthday on November 24th at the Titanic Museum Attraction. Guests to the attraction will have an opportunity to participate in the special celebration, which will be held in conjunction with the “Noon Presentation” near the bow of the ship and will include birthday cake, balloons, decorations, a large birthday card for them to sign as well as an opportunity to meet with their trainers and to pose with the dogs for birthday pictures.

Sanders said that since assuming their duties as the Titanic’s mascots on March 19, 2010, Molly and Carter’s primary purpose has been to “help us remember that there were dogs on board” the Titanic when she sank and to pay them tribute. “Part of what I do outside of their viewing area is to teach about the ten dogs that were on board and point out little known facts about them such as who they belonged to, where they boarded, how many survived and lots of other interesting facts about the dogs that not too many know about,” she continued.

Another important thing they do is enhance the overall experience and memories that guests to the Titanic have. “They just fall in love with these two and it makes their whole day,” she said. When asked, “How do people tell them apart she said that Carter has “freckles,” a little round spot on the side of her face and Molly does not. She also pointed out that “the girls,” as they are affectionately called aboard the ship, were named after passengers on board the Titanic on that fateful voyage.

Prior to assuming their duties aboard the Titanic, the dogs received intensive training from noted dog trainer Matt Matney, during which, in addition to their basic training, they were trained on socializing with children and crowds so that they would be comfortable with the atmosphere at the ship. In addition, with the help of their trainers, Molly and Carter have incorporated a few cute entertaining tricks into their repertoire. One such trick is Molly’s response when Kelli asks her, “What she thinks of icebergs?”

The dogs look forward to interacting with passengers when they are outside their quarters on the ship. Typically that occurs during their trips throughout the ship in their 1920 baby “pram” and their ceremonious “Noon Presentation” when the ships horn blows and they walk down from the bow of the ship with their handler and past the iceberg to meet and greet the ships guests and pose for pictures.

Carter, left, and Molly with handlers, Kelli Sanders, left, Kelli Riely and Kim Brent.*

The dogs “work” five days a week from 8 AM to 5 PM. When they are not working and are at home, Monday through Friday with Kelli Sanders and her family and the other two days with trainers Kelli Riley and Kim Breit, they love to play outside, go for walks and just enjoy cuddle time with “their” family.

Although the loving care that Molly and Carter receive at the Titanic is obvious, their care is monitored by three levels of government authority, national, state and county. Of these, the primary agency is the U.S. Department of Agriculture which conducts multiple unannounced inspections each year. These inspections include their accommodations both at the at the ship and in the homes of the trainers; how the dogs are handled, treated and transported; working conditions; required paper work such as daily logs and permits and many other areas impacting on the welfare and environment of Molly and Carter.

In addition to their duties at the Titanic, Molly and Carter use their lovely cuddly celebrity status to help the Branson community in a variety of ways. Among other things they have raised thousands of dollars for local humane societies and for a future dog park in Branson; have visited libraries “to champion and advocate literacy” and “nursing homes to warm the hearts of the residents” in addition to attending “Branson Chamber Breakfasts and ribbon cuttings for new businesses in the community.”

“Molly and Carter make an already exciting and fun filled adventure at the Titanic Museum Attraction even more memorable and unique,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. “We would take this opportunity to wish Molly and Carter an early Happy 4th Birthday and to thank the “crew” of the Titanic World’s Largest Museum Attraction for adding these wonderful animal celebrities not only to their attraction, but to the total experience Branson visitors can enjoy.”

NEWS FLASH: Just prior to publishing this article we received information that Molly and Carter are entered in the Royal Spaniels Magazine Photo Contest and out of thousands of contestants, have made it to the Top 10 and NEED YOUR VOTE! To vote for Molly and Carter click here.

* Photo courtesy Titanic World’s Largest Museum Attraction

Branson’s three major Christmas Lighting Displays

One of many Christmas lighting displays in the Branson Area Festival of Lights drive through display.

BRANSON, Mo., October 31, 2012 — In Branson, Missouri, last glimmer of Halloween and the Jack O Lantern is quickly replaced by the glow of millions of sparkling Christmas lights as it begins its celebration of Ozark Mountain Christmas. Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center said, “At this time of the year, one of the questions we are asked the most is, ‘Where are the best places to see Christmas lights?'”

Johnson points out that the entire Branson area is decorated for Christmas. However, in terms of Christmas lighting displays, by far the three areas that are the most extensively decorated and attract the most visitors to see their lights are Silver Dollar City with its Old Time Christmas, Shepherd of the Hills Trail of Lights and the Branson Area Festival of Lights.

Silver Dollar City, Branson’s oldest and most popular paid attraction is an 1880s-styled theme park that hosts a number of world class festivals each year. Its last festival each year is An Old Time Christmas, running from November 3 through December 30 this year. It has been recognized as one of the nation’s top theme park Christmas celebrations as it is transformed into a glowing Christmas spectacular with over four million sparkling lights throughout the park and a twice nightly 100,000 light Holiday Light Parade that winds through Silver Dollar City’s town square and by its five-story musical Special Effects Christmas Tree adorned with over one million colorful, sparkling and twinkling lights.

"Trail of Lights" display in shadow of Inspiration Tower.

The Shepherd of the Hills Trail of Lights is a drive through light display located east of Silver Dollar City on Highway 76 between it and the famed “Branson Strip” on the 160 acre Shepherd of the Hills Homestead. The Trail of Lights is unlike any Christmas lighting display anywhere. Its two and a half miles has been integrated into the natural terrain of the “Trail that Nobody Knows How Old” made famous by Harold Bell Wright in his novel, “The Shepherd of the Hills,” offering a Christmas wonderland unlike anything else anywhere.

As would be expected, the drive through includes millions of colored Christmas lights. It also includes hundreds of beautiful displays, most in their own themed area including music; many animated scenes beautiful lighted displays and a trip to Inspiration Tower where you can ride glass elevators up 230′ for a unique view of the lights.

The “Branson Area Festival of Lights,” produced by North Pole Productions, is located a few blocks north of the Branson Strip on Expressway Lane with its entrance located at the northern intersection of the Shepherd of the Hills Expressway and Expressway Lane. The drive through display is “a one-mile drive along a path illuminated with more than 175 displays” that “will delight children of all ages.”

Main Street Lake Cruises featured by CNN as 1 of 8 spectacular fall-foliage cruises

Taken today, this picture shows that Lake Taneycomo's foliage is into its "Color turn" and headed towards its anticipated "peak" within the next two weeks

BRANSON, Mo., October 14, 2012 — Like the quality of its many entertaining live shows, Branson is also known for the natural beauty that surrounds it. From its pristine lakes to the scenic splendor of the Ozark Mountains within which it is set, Branson’s natural beauty presents itself like an infinite variety of snowflakes on a day by day basis.

Nowhere is it more obvious, or well known, than in the Fall of each year as its trees and foliage put on one of the best shows in Branson. Perhaps not as well known, until now, was one of the best and most spectacular ways to see this show, but that changed recently when CNN Travel published an online article entitled, 8 spectacular fall-foliage cruises. The article said, “As the masses descend on America’s most colorful country roads this season, why not try an alternate route? Autumn’s gold-and-yellow leaf show is just as breathtaking from the deck of a boat…” and went on to list Branson’s Lake Taneycomo as “…a perfect place to revel in it” and a cruise aboard one of Main Street Lake Cruises two boats, the Lake Queen or Landing Princess as one of its “8 spectacular fall-foliage cruises.”

The article points out that Main Street Lake Cruises two boats, the Lake Queen, a replica of the historic paddle wheel riverboats that used to ply the waters of the White River and the Landing Princess, a 100 foot luxury yacht, offer different options including dinner cruises, and sightseeing itineraries on a scheduled basis throughout the day. Larry Milton, one of the principals of Main Street Lake Cruises said, “A cruise on one of our boats is always a unique fun filled adventure offering beautiful scenic panoramic views of the Ozarks not available anywhere else which become even more spectacular with the beauty and color of the Fall foliage. We are honored that our cruises were chosen as one of ‘8 spectacular fall-foliage cruises’ in the article.”

As the accompanying picture, taken today shows, Lake Taneycomo’s foliage is into its “color turn.” It is anticipated that it will “peak” within the next two weeks if the colder nights persist. For information about Main Street Lake Cruises sightseeing, dinner or charter cruises please contact them either by phone at 417-239-3980 or via their website www.MainStreetLakeCruises.com.

Pierce Arrow cruises into Preferred Event aboard Landing Princess

Cast of Pierce Arrow introducing themselves during cruise, Scott, left, Gary, Luke and Tim

BRANSON, Mo., October 12, 2012 — Branson is noted for the way most of its entertainers and stars like to “meet and greet” and interact with their fans. However, for the 100 passengers aboard Main Street Lake Cruises Landing Princess, on October 9, as part of the “Pierce Arrow Preferred Event” the term was taken to a new level. The Pierce Arrow cast met and posed for pictures with them as they boarded the boat and then went with them for a special exclusive chartered luncheon cruise on beautiful Lake Taneycomo.

As the sleek 100 foot long luxury yacht glided down Lake Taneycomo passengers were treated to a one of a kind view of the natural beauty of the Ozarks, waterfowl, the first blush of Fall foliage color and a view of native Ozark bluffs only available from Lake Taneycomo while enjoying, a scrumptious lunch. As they were finishing their lunch, the members of the “Pierce Arrow Quartet,” Gary Koreiba, Tim Storms, Scott Fraker, and Luke Menard and, one of the funniest men in Branson, the shows comedian Jarrett Dougherty, went from table to table talking with the passengers, giving them autographed pictures of the cast as well as posing for pictures and giving autographs.

Pierce Arrows Scott Fraker, right corner of table, talking with guests.

“Because of our two a day show schedule, we are very selective about the outside events that we do, but when this opportunity from the Branson Tourism Center became available we thought what a great opportunity,” said Doug Kissinger, Pierce Arrow Theatre Box Office Manager, who accompanied the cast on the cruise. “It fit in with our show schedule, and gave us an opportunity to work with one of our primary marketing partners in a win-win situation where the cast will have fun and the people coming to Branson will have a great time with it.” As he looked around the boat observing the interaction between the Pierce Arrow cast members and the passengers Kissinger reflected, “What a fun event and special experience for everyone, cruising Lake Taneycomo, great food, fellowship and what a view!”

Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center (BTC) said, “Our whole mission is to make sure that Branson visitors, from the beginning stages of planning a visit to Branson to the completion of their trip have a great experience.” She goes on to say, “Because of the wonderful relationship we have with Branson’s attractions, lodging operators and shows, customers of the Branson Tourism Center frequently receive value added benefits that you can’t get anywhere else in Branson, like our ‘Preferred Events.'”

Johnson points out that not only do BTC’s innovative and exclusive ‘Preferred Events’ provide a unique unparalleled opportunity to see a particular Branson star or stars perform in their show, but to meet and interact with them in an exclusive, personal and special way while saving money in the process. Currently, a different “Preferred Event Package” is offered every month including two adult tickets to the Main Street Lake Cruises Landing Princess lunch cruise and an exclusive Meet & Greet with the cast and stars of the show participating in the particular “Preferred Event.”

She adds, “We are thrilled about the success of the Pierce Arrow Preferred Event and are excited that our next “Preferred Event” is the Shoji Tabuchi Preferred Event which will be held on November 28. Due to the limited availability of the stars involved and the fact that there is only one cruise for each of these exclusive Preferred Events, availability is very limited. Reservations may be made by calling BTC at 1-800-926-5341.

What is Ozark Mountain Christmas?

The center of Silver Dollar City's "Old Time Christmas." It's town square and five story special effects Christmas Tree.

BRANSON, Mo., October 9, 2012 — “A common question for us at this time of the year is, ‘What is Ozark Mountain Christmas?’” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. She answers, “It’s a combination of things adding up to a unique Branson area wide celebration of the true spirit of a traditional American Christmas that has been celebrated for over two decades.”

From Historic Downtown Branson and Branson Landing on the shores of Lake Taneycomo on the east to Branson’s most popular paid attraction Silver Dollar City on the west, Ozark Mountain Christmas is a world class celebration of the Christmas Season. With millions upon millions of beautiful colored lights, drive through lighting displays and everything from a spectacular five story high special effects musical Christmas Tree; reindeer; Santa Claus and a “Fantasy Princess,” to Branson’s shows, attractions, shopping and other activities taking on the festive look and feel of the season, it is a unique holiday celebration unlike anything anywhere.

If that was all there was that would be plenty, but that’s not all there is. Ozark Mountain Christmas has its roots in a community that will be holding its “64th Annual Adoration Parade and Nativity Lighting Ceremony” in Historic Downtown Branson on December 2, as it gathers together to celebrate the reason for the season and honors the birth of the child for whom Christmas is named, Jesus Christ. While appreciating and respecting those who celebrate other holidays associated with that time of the year such as Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and others, Ozark Mountain Christmas is a special place for those who appreciate the traditional American Christmas and the real “reason for the season.”

A centerpiece of Ozark Mountain Christmas is Silver Dollar City’s world class festival, An Old Time Christmas, running from November 3 through December 30, and has been recognized as one of the nation’s top theme park Christmas celebrations. The 1880s-style theme park is transformed into a glowing Christmas spectacular with a twice nightly 100,000 light Holiday Light Parade; over four million sparkling lights throughout the park; one-of-a-kind handmade gifts made and showcased by Silver Dollar City’s demonstrating craftsmen; foods of the season and special shows including the Broadway style production of an original musical adaptation of “A Dickens’ Christmas Carol” and new this year, the debut of an adaptation of “It’s A Wonderful Life!” an original production with a cast of 14 strong which was produced exclusively for Silver Dollar City.

Ozark Mountain Christmas features two major drive through lighting displays, the Branson Area Festival of Lights and The Shepherd of the Hills Trail of Lights. The “Branson Area Festival of Lights” is a one mile trip through more than 175 sparkling displays, many of which are animated. It is conveniently located a few blocks from the heart of the Branson Strip. The Shepherd of the Hills Trail of Lights is a two and a half mile journey through millions of Christmas lights, hundreds of gorgeous displays, holiday music, and animated scenes most of which have been integrated into the natural terrain of the Shepherd of the Hills Homestead. It is one of the most unique and memorable drive through lighting experiences most people will ever experience and also includes a “trip to Inspiration Tower where guests can ride glass elevators up 230 feet for a “Santa’s eye view” of the lights from above.”

One of the many spectacular numbers in the 2011 "Andy Williams Christmas Show."

And what would the place that many call the “Live music show capital of the world” be like at Christmas, or any other time of the year, without its live shows. There is a wide selection of Christmas Shows that are only available during Ozark Mountain Christmas such as the Andy Williams Christmas Show, which involved Mr. Williams “in all phases of the show including production, its music and the selection of the acts that [would] be in the show,” prior to his passing; Lennon Sisters Christmas Show Johnny Mathis Christmas Show, Tony Orlando Christmas, A Christmas Snow, Christmas in Hollywood, Christmas on the Trail, Mollie B Christmas Show, Sanders Family Christmas, The Bellamy Brothers Tropical Christmas, and others.

In addition most of Branson’s regular season shows also perform Christmas shows which are typically a combination of the best of their regular season show and Christmas and are as unique as the show themselves. This includes some of Branson’s most popular shows such as Shoji Tabuchi, SIX, Pierce Arrow, Haygoods, Clay Cooper’s Country Express, Dixie Stampede, Duttons, George Dyer, Hamner and Barber Variety Show, Presleys’ Country Jubilee, Yakov Smirnoff, Duttons, Hughes Brothers, Rankin Brothers, Baldknobbers, Haygoods, Doug Gabriel, Grand Jubilee and many others. Other shows such as Acrobats of China, Joseph and Legends of Kung Fu, although not having a specific Christmas segment, are spectacular and add to the fun and excitement that is a part of Ozark Mountain Christmas.

Click here for a complete list of Branson Shows including information, pictures, videos, schedules, pricing and ticketing or call the Branson Tourism Center at 1-800-785-1550.

Many of Branson’s attractions have special activities for Ozark Mountain Christmas. A partial list includes the Polar Express operated by Branson Scenic Railways from November 8 through December 22;” Titanic Christmas and Winter Celebration at the Titanic Museum Attraction from November 1 through December 31,including, new this year, “The Fantasy Princess,” from Thanksgiving Weekend to December 31st,Wednesday through Sunday and “White Flight” at the Butterfly Palace and Rainforest November 1 through January 15.

Branson is a virtual Christmas shoppers dream. “From the shops at Branson Landing on the shores of Lake Taneycomo to handcrafted items by the craftsmen and artists at Silver Dollar City’s Old Time Christmas, two major outlet malls, the shops of Historic Downtown Branson and specialty shops galore throughout Branson, Branson Christmas shopping sparkles as brightly as its Christmas lights.

A highlight of Ozark Mountain Christmas will be the 64th Annual Adoration Parade and Nativity Lighting Ceremony on December 2. The lighting ceremony will be conducted near the intersection of Commercial and Main Streets in Historic Downtown Branson at 5:00 p.m. However, when the switch is flipped it will light the giant 30 foot tall figures of a Nativity Scene located on top of Mount Branson on the opposite side of Lake Taneycomo overlooking Branson Landing and Historic Downtown Branson. The lighting ceremony is followed by one of the few, if not the only, noncommercial, lighted nighttime parades in the United States devoted to the theme of “Keeping Christ In Christmas.”

Branson Tourism Center’s Johnson says, “If you’ve ever asked yourself, “What has happened to Christmas?’ a visit to Branson during Ozark Mountain Christmas just might answer that question. She also reminds everyone that it is one of the busiest times of the year in Branson and advises advance reservations for shows and lodging.

For additional information on Ozark Mountain Christmas or for tickets or information for any of Branson’s other shows and attractions or for lodging arrangements feel free to contact the Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

https://www.bransontourismcenter.com/

Missouri Division of Tourism honors Titanic Museum Attraction’s “The Year of the Titanic”

Titanic crew assembled to pay honors as the "Eternal Flame" was lit during the spectacular "Night To Remember" event on April 14.

BRANSON, Mo., September 24, 2012 — Congratulations to the Titanic Museum Attraction on being honored by the Missouri Tourism Commission and Missouri Division of Tourism at the Missouri Governor’s Conference on Tourism held Sept. 11-13, in Kansas City,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. According to information received from the Missouri Division of Tourism, the Titanic Museum Attraction, in Branson, received the “2012 Marketing Campaign Award” for the marketing of its “year-long tribute to RMS Titanic, its passengers and crew,” commemorating “the 100th anniversary of the sinking of Titanic.

Named “The Year of the, Titanic,” the campaign was honored because, among other things, it “garnered worldwide coverage from USA Today, the Associated Press, the New York Times, CNN, People Magazine, and other major media outlets.” In a press release acknowledging the award, John Joslyn, co-owner of the attractions and co-leader of the first private expeditions to Titanic’s final resting place said, “This is a great honor for both Titanic Branson and Titanic Pigeon Forge.” Joslyn pointed out that while the award was presented by the state of Missouri “it represents how the two attractions were able to coordinate their efforts to make the best possible impact in both Missouri and Tennessee.”

“It’s just wonderful to see the Titanic Museum Attraction honored for their marketing campaign of the magnificent way that they honored the 100th anniversary of that fateful voyage” Branson Tourism Center’s Johnson said. “It will be a long time before “The Year of the Titanic,” and events as spectacular and exciting as “A Night to Remember” and as solemn and poignant as the “Rose Petal Tribute” will be forgotten, she added.

Johnson reminds potential Branson visitors the a voyage on the Titanic Museum Attraction is always an exciting, educational and fun filled adventure made even more so, in terms of an historical once in 100 year experience, during 2012 and the celebration of “The Year of the Titanic. For additional information or tickets for the Titanic Museum Attraction or any of Branson’s other shows and attractions or for lodging arrangements please contact the Branson Tourism Center either by calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

A reason why Branson is a special place that should not be taken for granted

One of the spectacular sets in Sight and Sound's spectacular "Joseph."

BRANSON, Mo., September 22, 2012 – “Working with people like Vicki and James Green adds special meaning to what we do,” said, Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center (BTC). “Making a trip to Branson so special for our customers that they will want to say, ‘Branson was the greatest experience that I’ve had in a long time,’ is our passion,” she added.

After the Greens first trip to Branson in 13 years, Vicki Green sent an email to Branson Tourism Center about their Branson trip and how much it meant to them. As BTC responded, by phone and email, with Vicki, it became apparent that her heartwarming story of courage and hope and its relationship to her trip to Branson should remind all of us what a special place Branson is and why we should not take either it or tomorrow for granted.

In her initial email she said, “Thank you all so much for making our vacation come true… Our vacation was just wonderful. The best time that I have had in years. I did not want to come home.

“Dixie Stampede was awesome – the best show in Branson. I had never rode a train, so riding the ‘[Branson] Scenic Railroad’ train was so relaxing and the scenery was so beautiful. The show Joseph was great and we had the best seats in the house — 3 rows from the Tip Top, but we could see everything so well. The ‘Waltzing Waters’ were so beautiful… The [Hollywood] Wax Museum was great… We went to the ‘Old Fashion Photos’ and dressed up as a Western Bride and Groom. That was so much fun.

“‘Baldknobbers’ and ‘Plantation’ are great places to eat. I got to go into the shops on the strip. My husband and I walked down the strip holding hands like a newlywed couple – after 36 years of marriage. I guess it was a second honeymoon for us…I can’t wait to come there again. There is still plenty to do.

“It had been 13 years since we had been there. Don’t want to wait that long again. Thanks to everyone. It was a perfect trip – it couldn’t have been better. The hotel [Dutton Inn] was wonderful…”

After receiving the original email, Lesley Davis, a Manager with BTC called to thank her for taking the time to share her Branson experience and for the kind things she had to say about the service she received from BTC. During that conversation Lesley discovered something else about why that trip was so special to the Greens, but let’s let the words of Vicki herself, from a second email she sent after the phone call, share that with us.

“Thank you so much for your call to me today. I felt so honored that you had taken from your time to just talk to one person out of thousands that probably come through there. I didn’t really expect to get a reply to that e-mail. I assumed someone would read it, then delete it and it’d be trash….

“I think Branson was very special to us because it had been a long time since we’d had a vacation. I was diagnosed with cancer in October 2007. A lot of surgeries and chemotherapy kept me down. I was barely able to get in a car, much less take a trip. Maybe a lot of people take Branson for granted. They go and know that in a few months they will go again, so it’s not as special.

“It was so good to be there and enjoy so many things and feel good to do them. I had prayed hard for God to bless me and he did a miracle with me. The problems that I was having I didn’t have while I was there. God has been so good to me. I am cancer free. I just had my 6 month check up. My Oncologist is going to do a Bone Scan. A little concern about bone pain I am having… God is able to take care of it…

“Branson was the greatest experience that I’ve had in a long time.”

We at the Branson Tourism center would simply say, “Thank you Vicki, not only for coming to Branson and giving us the honor of working with you to plan the trip, but for sharing your personal experience with us.” It is a reminder for those of us privileged to live and work in Branson not to take what surrounds us every day for granted and of the need to make sure that every trip to Branson for every customer is “special” enough so that they would want to echo your words, “Branson was the greatest experience that I’ve had in a long time.”

Silver Dollar City’s National Harvest Festival salutes “The Great American Cowboy”

One of the largest gatherings of demonstrating craftsmen and artists in America.

BRANSON, Mo., September 11, 2012 — “The U.S. Congress has proclaimed Silver Dollar City as ‘The Home of American Craftsmanship’ and its National Harvest Festival, running from September 13 – October 27, illustrates why,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. “Featuring one of the largest gatherings of demonstrating artisans and craftsmen from all over the country, The National Harvest Festival is one of America’s most recognized craft festivals.”

“A major ‘focus’ during the National Harvest Festival is craftsmanship, as the park features 125 top craftsmen from around the country, with more new crafters this year than ever before.” This provides a unique opportunity to see demonstrating craftsmen demonstrating their craftsmanship on American crafts at one of the largest gatherings of demonstrating craftsmen and artists in America. See crafts such as weaving, glass blowing, knife making, Native American flutes and dozens of others as well as Best of Missouri Hands juried artists and the Made in Missouri Art Faire show and competition.

The Festival will feature the “Salute to the Great American Cowboy” featuring “The Pinkerton Man,” an original brand new Western stunt show production. The action filled show will follow the ” classic defender-versus-villain story, including hero fights, 3-story falls, high-flying stunts and rapid-slide rappels, explosions and more, with professional stunt men and women leading a cast of 14, plus live animals. The production, presented within the 4,000-seat Echo Hollow Amphitheatre — the only venue big enough for all the action, also features comedy and original live music performed by the Sons of the Silver Dollar.” Marty Schmitt, Festival Coordinator, said, “The amphitheater explodes with action, energy, pyrotechnics and, at times, chaos — a live demonstration of how action stunts put thrills in entertainment!”

“The Pinkerton Man,” an original brand new Western stunt show production, is filled with action and excitement.

The Salute’s entertainment also includes Western musicians such as “double-Grammy-winning musicians and 7-time Western Music Association’s (WMA) ‘Entertainers Of the Year’ Riders in the Sky, multiple WMA Award winners The Sons of the San Joaquin, singer-songwriter and Texas poet laureate Red Steagall, three-part-harmony and violin trio The Quebe Sisters Band, and others. Throughout September guests can join in Missouri’s Biggest Barn Dance “with live music by Les Gilliam & his Silver Lake Band.

The Great American Cowboy Salute theme continues including Buck Taylor a legendary Western star and water color artist hosting “Buck Taylor’s Cowboy Emporium,” September 19 – October 27; meet and greets with Western celebrities from movies and TV shows including “The Rifleman,” “The Lawman” and “McLintock,” including Edward Faulkner, Johnny Washbrook, Mark Goddard, Lee Aaker, James Hampton and Peter Brown; Chuck wagon cooks and historians, historians and chefs, including Kent Rollins, a cattle rancher and chuck wagon cook ,whose talents have landed him on the Food Network’s “Chopped” and “Throwdown with Bobby Flay,” demonstrating trail-side cooking ; “‘Extreme Mustang Makeovers’ where mustang expert Fred Woehl tames and trains three wild mustangs during the festival; trick horse stunts, trick roping; bullwhip demonstrations and “Cowboy Poets including Waddie Mitchell.”

The Harvest Festival will be replete with the aromas and tastes of the “Fall.” This will include favorites ” such as homemade soups and stews, smoked turkey legs and hearty skillet meals cooked on open grills.” as well as the other wonderful foods served through the park on a day to day basis.

“All of the activities involved with the Festival are in addition to everything else Silver Dollar City offers on a daily basis,” said . Branson Tourism Center’s Johnson. The 1880’s international award winning theme park features 30 rides and attractions encompassing everything from “Wildfire,” a world class multi-looping roller coaster that reaches speeds up to 66 miles per hour to their new $1 million “Half Dollar Holler” designed for kids through age 7 and so much more.

In term of value and being able to enjoy all that Silver Dollar City has to offer at your leisure, she points out that the Branson Tourism Center (BTC) has two day Silver Dollar City tickets for the price of a one day ticket. For additional information or tickets for Silver Dollar City, the National Harvest Festival or any of Branson’s other shows and attractions or for lodging arrangements please contact BTC by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.