Category Archives: Branson Attractions

Branson is a Thanksgiving cornucopia of food, shows, fun and shopping

Silver Dollar City's town square during "An Old Time Christmas" with its five story Christmas Tree and the "Holiday of Lights" parade passing through.

“Traditionally, Thanksgiving signals the beginning of the Christmas Season and what better way to celebrate Thanksgiving and get that Christmas Spirit than in Branson, Missouri, said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. “Branson’s Ozark Mountain Christmas is in full swing with a full slate of activities scheduled right through the long Thanksgiving weekend. From drive through Christmas lighting displays, special Christmas activities at many Branson attractions, live shows, wonderful food, great shopping and a wide choices of other activities there is something for everyone in Branson this Thanksgiving,” she continued.

One thing just about everyone looks forward to on Thanksgiving Day is the traditional Thanksgiving meal. In that regard Branson’s restaurants will be offering a large variety of special Thanksgiving meals and buffets. For a list of Thanksgiving Day dinning choices, schedules and, in some cases menus please click here and look under the tab “Thanksgiving in Branson.” In addition, for those who might want to eat and be entertained at the same time, it should be pointed out that the Showboat Branson Belle, Legend of Kung Fu, Yakov’s Dinner Adventure and Dixie Stampede will also be available not only on Thanksgiving Day, but during the whole Thanksgiving weekend.

And speaking of entertainment, there will be a full selection of Branson’s live shows 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 25. Click here for complete information, schedules, pictures, or tickets on any of Branson’s great live shows.

9:00 am

IMAX Adventure Films

10:00 am

A Tribute to John Denver
Hughes Brothers

1:00 pm

A Neil Diamond Tribute
Bill Chrastil, The Many Performances of

2:00 pm

A Tribute to Marty Robbins
Cat’s Pajamas – Vocal Band
Christmas with the Lennon Sisters
The World Famous Platters Revue
Twelve Irish Tenors

3:00 pm

Acrobats of China
Amazing Pets
Legend of Kung Fu
Legends in Concert

4:00 pm

Showboat Branson Belle

5:00 pm

Comedy Hypnosis Dinner Show
George Strait Tribute
The Rat Pack – Live & Swingin
Yakov’s Dinner Adventure

5:15 pm

Christmas on the Trail

5:30 pm

Dixie Stampede

7:00 pm

Amazing Pets
Andy Williams Christmas
Motown Downtown
Top 10 Rock and Roll Revue

7:30 pm

Grand Jubilee
Pierce Arrow
Shoji Tabuchi

8:00 pm

A Christmas Snow
Chubby Checker
Clay Cooper’s Country Music ExpressDixie Stampede
Duttons
Hamner Barber Variety Show
Haygoods
Hollywood’s Christmas Spectacular
Jim Stafford
Kirby VanBurch
Legend of Kung Fu
Legends in Concert
Sanders Family Christmas
Tony Orlando Christmas
Untamed Illusions

From the wonders of Silver Dollar City’s An Old Time Christmas to an exciting “voyage” aboard the Titanic complete with live reindeer, most Branson attractions will be open not only on Thanksgiving Day, but throughout the whole weekend. In addition 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..

With handmade gifts by the craftsmen at Silver Dollar City to the amazing assortment of unique and specialty stores in historic downtown Branson at places like Dick’s Old Time 5 & 10, Rosa’s Lost treasure Chest, the art work of outdoor artist Tom Crain and literally hundreds of other shops, and three major shopping malls, Branson provides a unique unrivaled shopping experience. Branson’s three major shopping malls Branson Landing, Factory Merchants and Tanger Outlets and will have special schedules for Thanksgiving Day and the Friday after Thanksgiving. Click here for their schedules and links to discount coupons and specials under the tab “November & Thanksgiving Weekend Shopping.”

Branson Tourism Center’s Johnson points out that from Thanksgiving through the middle of December is one of the busiest times of the year in Branson and suggests advance reservations for shows and lodging. For additional information on any of Branson’s shows, attractions activities or for lodging arrangements please feel free to contact the Branson Tourism Center (BTC), 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.

Silver Dollar City’s “An Old Time Christmas” features “A Dickens’ Christmas Carol”

Scrooge and the "Ghost of Christmas Present" looking in on Cratchit's celebration of Christmas.

When one is planning a day at Silver Dollar City, they are not normally thinking of “shows,” they are generally thinking about rides, craft demonstrations and all of the fun activities that it offers on a daily basis. Here’s something that a lot of people don’t fully appreciate however, Silver Dollar City puts on some of the most unique, entertaining and best produced shows in Branson during the many world class Festivals it runs each year including, but not limited to shows as different and exciting as “The Fabulous Wallendas! Famous Family Circus,” during “KidsFest,”’ “Headin’ West” during the National Harvest Festival and, of course, “A Dickens’ Christmas Carol” as part of its “An Old Time Christmas” running through December 30.

After seeing “A Dickens’ Christmas Carol,” Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center said, “What a wonderful fantastic show. It is another example of the quality and breadth of the live shows that Branson offers its guests.”

Created specifically for Silver Dollar City, the 60 minute musical adaptation of the Dickens classic novel is not just a remarkable entertainment event, but a unique and special Christmas experience not available anywhere else. The “Christmas Carol” features an extremely talented cast, “a live band, astounding special effects, stunning Victorian scenery and exquisite period costuming.” That, combined with the spirit, energy and talent of the cast, brings the story of the skinflint Scrooge and his journey of change from “Humbug” to the true Christmas spirit to life in a dramtic, exciting and inspirational manner

“A Dickens’ Christmas Carol” is playing at the Opera House Theatre in Silver Dollar City and is included as part of your Silver Dollar City experience during its celebration of “An Old Time Christmas” through December 30. Although there are multiple performances scheduled each day, Branson Tourism Center’s Johnson suggests, because of the show’s popularity, other festival shows such as the “Living Nativity” and “Frosty” along with  everything else there is to do at Silver Dollar City, that those planning to see any of Silver Dollars City’s shows should plan accordingly. She also points out that those buying their Silver Dollar City tickets through Branson Tourism Center (BTC), one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services, get two full days at Silver Dollar City for the price of one.

For additional information or tickets for Silver Dollar City 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.

Ozark Mountain Christmas – a spectacular celebration of the traditional American Christmas

Silver Dollar City’s “Old Time Christmas” is a highlight of “Ozark Mountain Christmas.”

BRANSON, Mo. When Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center, was asked, “What exactly is ‘Ozark Mountain Christmas?” last year, she gave an answer that is as unique and timeless as the event itself. She said, “It’s not just one thing. It is a unique Branson wide celebration of the true spirit of a traditional American Christmas that has been celebrated for over two decades.”

And what a celebration it is. From Silver Dollar City on the west to Historic Downtown Branson and Branson Landing on the shores of Lake Taneycomo to the east, Ozark Mountain Christmas is filled with everything one would expect from a world class holiday celebration. From a spectacular five story high musical decorated tree; reindeer; Santa Claus; millions upon millions of beautiful colored lights and drive through lighting displays to Branson’s shows, attractions, shopping and other activities taking on the festive look and feel of the season, it is a wonderful world class celebration.

However, if that was all there was it would be just another politically correct “holiday” celebration, but that’s not all there is. Ozark Mountain Christmas is the pure unbridled celebration of the traditional American Christmas, spirit and message. It’s a unique celebration, having its roots in a community that will be holding its “63rd Annual Adoration Parade and Lighting Ceremony” in Historic Downtown Branson as it gathers together in celebration of the reason for the season and honors the birth of the very child for whom Christmas is named.

While respecting and appreciating those who celebrate other holidays associated with that time of the year such as Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and others, Ozark Mountain Christmas is unique in that it is one of the few open and public community celebrations of the traditional American Christmas and the reason for the season. Each year, between November 1 and December 31 hundreds of thousands come to Branson to experience Ozark Mountain Christmas and all that it has to offer.

Silver Dollar City’s world class festival, An Old Time Christmas, running from November 5 through December 30, is a major focal point of Ozark Mountain Christmas 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 100 demonstrating craftsmen; foods of the season and special shows including the Broadway style production of an original musical adaptation of “A Dickens’ Christmas Carol,” produced by Silver Dollar City; “The Living Nativity” and “Frosty.”

Ozark Mountain Christmas features two major drive through lighting displays The Shepherd of the Hills Trail of Lights and the Branson Area Festival of Lights. 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.” The “Branson Area Festival of Lights” is a one mile trip through more than 175 sparkling lighting displays, many of which are animated. It is conveniently located a few blocks off the heart of the Branson Strip.

The spectacle and wonder of the Sight and Sound’s “Miracle of Christmas.”

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 incomparable Andy Williams Christmas Show, Spirit of Christmas, Miracle of Christmas, Hollywood’s Christmas Spectacular, Christmas with the Lennon Sisters and many others. In addition most of Branson’s regular season shows also perform Christmas shows. This includes some of Branson’s most popular shows such as Shoji Tabuchi, SIX, Pierce Arrow, Hamner and Barber Variety Show, Presleys’ Country Jubilee, Yakov Smirnoff and many others. Click here for a complete list of Branson Shows or call the Branson Tourism Center at 1-800-785-1550 for information about any Branson show.

Many of Branson’s attractions have special activities for Ozark Mountain Christmas. A partial list includes the Polar Express operated by Branson Scenic Railways on Fridays and Saturdays from November 10 through December 18, Live Reindeer at the Titanic Museum on Friday and Saturday November 25-26, December 2-3 and 9-10, Ride the Ducks Land and Lighting Tour from November 4 through December 11 and White Flight at the Butterfly Palace and Rainforest November 1 through January 15.

In terms of Christmas shopping Ozark Mountain Christmas is unsurpassed. 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, three outlet malls and specialty shops for just about every interest Branson is a Christmas shopper’s paradise.

A highlight of Ozark Mountain Christmas will be the 63rd Annual Adoration Parade and Lighting Ceremony on December 4. 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 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, “”Ozark Mountain Christmas is a wonderful way for locals and visitors alike to get into the true Christmas spirit.” 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 please 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.

Fall foliage is one of the best shows in Branson

A shot of beautiful color as a tree begins to turn. It was taken from the balcony of our condo today in the rain.

BRANSON, Mo. It’s a beautiful thing to see as the first blush of color starts to paint the foliage covering the beautiful Ozarks. That first blush gradually paints the entire Ozarks with the colors of fall, one leaf at a time. Although this year’s color might not be as spectacular as some in the past, on any year it is a beautiful sight to see and experience providing one of the best shows in Branson.

One of the questions that is often asked is “What’s the best way to see the foliage?” The general answer would be, “Just keep your eyes open as you experience Branson.” It might be just a couple of trees with vivid color as you drive down the road, a panoramic vista filled with color as you gaze out from one of the area’s overlooks or, as is the case illustrated in the photo taken from the deck of my condo as I was writing this piece this morning, simply noticing the beautiful foliage that can be seen at just about every turn in Branson.

The fall foliage is an inherent part of many of Branson’s outdoor activities and attractions. It would be hard to get better a panoramic view of the Ozark’s foliage than from a cruise on Lake Taneycomo, aboard either the Branson Landing Cruises’ Lake Queen or Lake Princess or on Table Rock Lake aboard the Showboat Branson Belle. Experiencing the fall foliage is an added benefit of golfing on one of the many Branson golf courses or visiting Branson attractions such as Silver Dollar City, zip lines such as the Vigilante, Inspiration Tower, Branson Scenic Railway and others.

Another great way to see magnificent panoramic vistas is from some of the area’s “overlooks. The Overlook on State Route 165, about a mile south of its intersection with State Route 265, and the Table Rock Dam Overlook, located on the south end of Table Rock Dam across the road from the Visitors Center, both provide unique views not only of the foliage, especially if you look downstream from either of these points, but of the general area. In addition, the Table Rock Dam overlook also provides closeup view of the Dam and the Shepherd of the Hills Trout Hatchery.

A third overlook is provided at the Henning Conservation Area located about a mile west of the junction of State Route 76 and State Route 376 on the north side of the road. Its view to the north from the parking area is just breathtaking anytime and made even more so when one factors in the fall foliage. As you drive to and from Henning, the view off the south side of Route 76 is also spectacular.

There are many ways to experience to fall foliage “up close and personal.” One is by walking some of the many trails that are available. These include the trails at the Henning Conservation Area, the Shepherd of the Hills Visitor’s Center at the foot of Table Rock Dam, the White River Valley Trail System, the city of Branson’s Lake Side Wilderness Trailand others.

The views available looking along the bluffs across from Branson Landing are another way to get a panoramic view of the fall foliage as it changes. The paved Branson Landing Boardwalk, accessible from either the Belk or Bass Pro Shops parking lots, runs the length of Branson Landing along the Lake Taneycomo shoreline providing convenient level access for everyone to see not only the foliage, but the boats, birds and other activities taking place on the lake.

The foliage and the natural beauty of an Ozark’s Fall becomes an even better experience with its almost seamless integration into the other things that Branson offers live shows, attractions, shopping and dozens of other activities. It is that unique combination of natural beauty, entertainment and fun, combined with its spirit, that makes Branson, Missouri the special unique place that it is to visit and to live.

It’s no duck waddle as Titanic’s Molly and Carter promenade daily at Noon sharp

Carter and Molly with First Class Maid Jaynee and Handler Kim Breit after greeting the ships guests.

A well known national hotel has a daily “duck march” at 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. every day, with five ducks waddling along a red carpet to and from its lobby fountain. Well, in Branson, Missouri, when the whistle of the Titanic Museum Attraction blows at Noon each day, “Molly” and “Carter, two adorable and cuddly King Charles Spaniels, come around the bow of the great ship with their handler and one of the Titanic’s crew as they promenade down the winding walkway and past the waterfall to the iceberg by the attractions entrance where they “greet” the ships guests and pose for pictures.

When the Titanic’s First Class Maid, Jaynee said, “I love and adore Molly and Carter,” she was probably expressing the way a lot of the Titanic’s passengers feel about the two loveable “Titanic Mascots.” Kim Breit, one of their handlers who has been working with “the girls,” as she calls them, since their arrival at the ship in March of 2010 said that they “just love being around people and getting attention.”

Nowhere is that more evident than when they are in their carriage by the iceberg after the walk posing for pictures and interacting with the ships guests as they pet them. In one case, no pictures because of privacy reasons, a man in a wheel chair could not get close enough to pet the dogs. It was touching to observe the efforts that both Jaynee and Kim went through to bring Molly and Carter to him for pictures with his family and so he could pet them.

The look on his face as he petted them was priceless. To this writer, it illustrated the personality, heart and training of the Titanic’s crew toward ensuring that every guest has a great experience and the essence of what differentiates Branson from every other major tourist attraction in the world; the way we care about and for our guests.

Breit continued saying that Molly and Carter are sisters and will be three years old in November of this year. She points out that although they are sisters and both love attention and being around people that they have two distinct personalities. Carter is a big “snuggler” and likes to be held while Molly “is very independent.” Although “Carter” is a male name, she got her name from the “Carter” family who was traveling aboard the Titanic with a King Charles Spaniel at the time of its sinking. The Carters survived the tragic event, but sadly their King Charles Spaniel did not.

The life that Molly and Carter lead adds new meaning to “Being treated like a dog.” There are three handlers that rotate taking care of their every need during their working day as well as taking them home with them at night. When they are not greeting or interacting with guests while at the ship, daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., they spend time relaxing in their “lavish” climate controlled “kennel” aboard the ship

For additional information or tickets for the Branson Titanic Museum Attraction or any of Branson’s other shows and attractions or for lodging arrangements please contact the Branson Tourism Center (BTC), one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services. BTC can be reached by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

October provides Branson visitors with unique entertaining opportunities

One of many demonstrating craftsmen at Silver Dollar City's "National Harvest Festival.

BRANSON, Mo.  One thing is evident in Branson, there is always something fun and exciting to do, but the month of October provides visitors with a unique opportunity for some special experiences. The first relates to the beauty of the Ozarks and the opportunity to see the Fall foliage and experience the natural wonder of the Ozarks. Although, because of hot dry weather, the foliage might not be as colorful as some years in the past, when coupled with Table Rock Lake and beautiful rolling Ozark vistas the Fall scenery in the Branson area is simply a unique spectacular experience.

Silver Dollar City, Branson’s most popular and oldest attraction, is a continuation of  that natural beauty. The 1880′s international award winning theme park, featuring 30 rides, shows, demonstrating craftsmen and much more has been integrated almost seamlessly into the beautiful Ozark hills of which is it a part.

In addition to all it offers on a daily basis, Silver Dollar City holds six world class festivals every year. The month of October presents the last opportunity to attend its “National Harvest Festival” with over 125 demonstrating craftsmen and artisans from all over the country; special shows such as the original award winning musical production of “Headin’ West,” the popular “Birds of Prey” and, new this year, the “Timberworks Lumberjack Show featuring “speed racing up 40 foot poles, cross-cut-sawing, ax throwing,” and much more.

One of Branson's hottest shows, the vocal band SIX, left to right, Lynn, Kevin, Curtis, Barry, Owen and Jak.

October is also a special month for Branson’s live shows because it is the last time for Branson visitors to see the 2011 regular season version of many Branson shows. Starting during the first week of November, with the start of Ozark Mountain Christmas, the vast majority of Branson Shows will transition over to their Christmas Shows making the month of October the last month to see the 2011 regular season version of their shows. This includes some of Branson’s most popular shows such as Presley’s Country Jubilee, SIX, Yakov Smirnoff, Hamner and Barber Variety, Shoji Tabuchi, and Pierce Arrow.

For still other regular season Branson shows, the month of October is the last chance to see them at all during the 2011 season because their seasons will end during the month of October. These include, but are not limited to, shows such as the Liverpool Legends, Smoke on the Mountain, Shepherd of the Hills Outdoor Play, Hooray for Hollywood, Righteous Brothers’ Bill Medley, Sons of the Pioneers, and the  Circle B Supper Show. October will be the last month for Branson Visitors to see the spectacular production of “NOAH, the Musical” at the Sight and Sound Theatre not only for 2011, but for at least a few years to come. It will be replaced by the equally spectacular “Joseph” starting in the 2012 season.

The Official Branson.Com Show Schedule indicates that October will also be an excellent month to see some great limited engagement performances. This includes Michael Bolton; Vicki Lawrence; Tim Conway with Friends; Don Williams with guest Little Jimmy Dickens; Aaron Tippin, Sammy Kershaw and Joe Diffie; Gatlin Brothers; Oak Ridge Boys and Marty Stuart. The end of October will also be the last chance to see some of Branson’s more extended limited engagement shows such as Andy William and Ann-Margret; Lee Greenwood and Louise Mandrell and Oh What A Night! A Musical Tribute to Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons.

For additional information or tickets for Silver Dollar City, any of the shows mentioned in this article or other Branson shows and attractions or for lodging arrangements please contact the Branson Tourism Center (BTC), one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services. BTC can be reached by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

New one of a kind exhibit added to Branson Titanic Museum Attraction

Titanic's "Survivors' Wall of Stories," tells "The Rest of the Story."*

BRANSON, Mo. As we approach the 100th Anniversary of the tragic sinking of the RMS Titanic in the early morning hours of April 15, 1912 the horrific loss of life and the ship that was touted as being virtually unsinkable are forever etched on the pages of history. Too, those pages testify as to the obvious fate of the over 1,500 passengers and crew who went to the bottom of the North Atlantic with her.

What has not been as obvious is what happened to the 712 passengers and crew members who survived that fateful voyage. Not anymore! The “New exclusive ‘Survivors’ Wall of Stories,’ at the Titanic Museum Attraction in Branson” presents, all in one place, information about the “the individual journeys of each of the survivors” after that fateful night.

On a daily basis, the Branson Titanic Museum Attraction, provides its “passengers” with an exciting opportunity to experience what it was like aboard the Titanic on its ill-fated maiden voyage. Among the many things woven into the exciting and educational experience are “400 artifacts directly from the ship,” a chance to walk up an exact full size reproduction of the ships Grand Staircase, feel first-hand what 28 degree water feels like, experience what the passengers and crew experienced as they tried to stand on the sloping decks of the ship as she sank and so much more.

A standard part of the Branson Titanic experience, ever since it first opened, is to give each passenger a Boarding Pass, with the name and information about one of the passengers or crew members who were on board the Titanic when she sank. This personalizes the experience for the “passenger” as they go through the museum as well as giving them an opportunity to see whether or not “they” survived by checking their name in the “Memorial Gallery,” which lists all passengers and crew members and whether or not they survived.

Mary Kellogg-Joslyn, the co-owner of the Titanic Museum Attraction with her husband John, said “So many guests ask us, ‘What happened to our passenger that survived on our boarding pass?’” She explained that until now there was no exhibit answering that question and they were answered by the crew members and staff of the Titanic on an individual basis based on available information. “Now, for the first time in the world, after two years of research, we have been able to put their lives together after they reached New York City almost 100 years ago,” she continued.

The research included contacting “Titanic Historical Societies around the world,” to get the information and documentation to tell the survivors stories. The result is an exclusive new exhibit for the Branson Titanic Museum Attraction that is the most complete public exhibit of information in the world telling what happened to the Titanic Survivors after they arrived in New York after being rescued.

The unique “Survivors’ Wall of Stories,” presents a picture, where available, and the stories of the vast majority of the 712 survivors, divided just as they were aboard the Titanic on their voyage, 201 from First Class, 118 from Second Class, 181 from Third Class and 212 Crew Members. Within each of those categories, the information is presented and sorted alphabetically. As of this date, out of the 712 survivors, the “Survivors’ Wall of Stories,” has information on all except for except for about 30.

Joslyn points out that the research is ongoing and that the exhibit will be updated with new information as it becomes available. As an example, she explains that six of the survivors were Chinese men and there is no record of what happened after they returned to their country. After visiting the museum, the Chinese government is now going to take part in helping to find out what happened to the Chinese survivors.

She said that the “Survivors’ Wall of Stories,” is just one example of how things are constantly changing at the museum to keep it fresh and exciting so that its guests always have a fresh new experience every time they visit. For additional information on the Titanic Museum Attraction or tickets for any of Branson’s other shows and attractions or for lodging arrangements please contact the Branson Tourism Center (BTC), one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services. BTC can be reached by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

*Picture courtesy of Branson Titanic Museum Atraction

Craft festivals, grape stomp, faeries, wood carving and chili cook-off “Fall” in Branson

One of the many crafts that will be demonstrated at the National Harvest Festival.

Silver Dollar City’s National Harvest Festival is not only one of the largest craft festivals in the nation it is the precursor of many Fall festivals and events in the Branson area that run during the same time period. The National Harvest Festival has been formally recognized by the U.S. Congress, features over 100 demonstrating craftsmen and artisans from all over the country, runs until October 29 and like all of the six world class festivals that Silver Dollar City offers its guests each year is in addition to all the fun, rides and excitement available at the international award winning 1880s theme park on a daily basis.

The merchants and businesses of historic downtown Branson will hold their 38th Annual Autumn Daze Arts and Crafts Festival in Branson’s historic district on Friday and Saturday, September 16 and 17 from 9 AM to 6 PM. Over 150 crafters from all over the country will display, their work in this “juried craft show” which is free to the public and, when combined with the unqiue specialty and art shops in downtown Branson, provides one of the most unique shopping opportunities available anywhere. In addition the festival includes demonstrations from many of the visiting craftsmen, food vendors, a children’s area, free live music from Branson entertainers throughout the day and a street dance in historic down town Branson on Saturday, September 17 at 6:30 PM with the music provided by “Tony Turner and the All Stars.”

On Saturday, September 24, the city of Hollister will hold its 13th annual “Grape & Fall Festival” on “Downing Street”  in historic downtown Hollister. This one day celebration is “simply old fashioned family fun” for the whole family and will feature displays and products by local artists and vendors, live music and entertainment by Branson entertainers, kids activities, “carnival food like funnel cakes and turkey legs” and much more. One of the major highlights of the festival is the “Grape Stomp” competition at 2 PM where local dignitaries and personalities “get up to their knees in grapes” and compete for the coveted “Ugly Monkey Trophy.” It’s a unique day of great fun.

The 2nd Annual “Rose O’Neill’s Faerie Gathering” will take place on September 24 and 25 at “Bonniebrook,” the “favorite place” of Rose O’Neill, the inventor of the “Kewpie Doll” and “Kewpies.” In addition to the museum, containing one of the most complete collections of O’Neil’s “Kewpies” and other works available anywhere, the festival will celebrate her belief in “Faeries” with crafts, a fairy house building competition, seminars and other activities including “The Sweet Monsters Ball and Masquerade” starting at 6 PM on Saturday, September 24.

From Friday, October 7 through the Sunday, October 9, in conjunction with “LogHoggers,” the Branson Titanic Museum Attraction will hold its 4th Annual Chainsaw Sculpting Event to honor Titanic’s German passengers and crew. The three day competition will take place from 9 AM to 5 PM on Friday and Saturday and from 9 AM to 3 PM on Sunday. It also includes an auction where the carvings will be auctioned off to the highest bidder.

The Titanic will also hold its 2nd Annual “red-hot Titanic Firehouse & Charity Chili Cook-Off on Saturday, October 15, from 10 AM. to 4 PM in the same parking area. The first year of the event proved to be one of “the most highly attended family events in Titanic’s five-year history.” Come early, watch them prep, meet local firefighters, personnel from various charities, sample their delicious chili and then stick around to see if your favorite wins the competition.

https://www.bransontourismcenter.com/events/detail.php?id=952

For additional information on any of these events or any of Branson’s shows and attractions or for lodging arrangements please contact the Branson Tourism Center (BTC), one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services. BTC can be reached by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

New White River Valley Trail System adds the repertoire of fun things to do in Branson

Trail head for the trail.

BRANSON, Mo. It’s known for its outstanding live shows, great attractions, shopping and lakes, but Branson’s newest activity might just put it on the “map” for mountain bikers and hikers. “What a wonderful new attraction for Branson,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center in connection with the recent dedication of the “White River Valley Trail System.”

The trail is intended for hikers as well as bikers and is the first in the Branson area to be designated for mountain bikes. Its Trailhead, with its parking and rest rooms, is located just south of the entrance for the Showboat Branson Belle and north of the main entrance to Table Rock State park on State Highway 165. The natural surface trail is divided into major loops designated by color, a 2.5 mile Red Loop, 3.0 Mile Blue Loop, .6 mile Orange Loop and a 1.25 mile Green Loop with various Connectors Trails that combine to make up the 10.25 mile roundtrip length of the trail.

The 2.5 mile Red Loop starts and ends at the Trailhead. The other Loops start off of Connector Trail 2 located at about the midway point on the loop. The Red Loop is a convenient way for most families to take advantage of the White River Valley Trail System as well as exploring an area of Branson to which most have not previously had convenient access. In addition, if Connector Trail 1 is used,it provides a nice 1.25 mile loop. The trail will take hikers and bikers “near old homestead ruins, relics of the Table Rock Dam construction during the 1950s” and through miles of nature at its Ozarks best.

The trail received a “2011 Coalition for Recreational Trails Award in the Multi-Use Management and Corridor Sharing Category,” earlier this year. Bill Bryan, Director of Missouri State Parks, said, “Our primary goal for this trail is to provide a new recreational opportunity for people who enjoying hiking and mountain biking, which is a growing sport in this area.”

It was partially funded with ” Recreational Trails Program” grants and is a “joint land-use project between the Missouri Department of Natural Resources and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.” Part of the trail is on U.S. Army Corps of Engineers property and part in Table Rock State Park. In addition, the project received broad community support from the Branson Tri-Lakes and Hollister Chambers of Commerce, “local city governments, Volunteers for Outdoor Missouri, students from Hollister and the College of the Ozarks, Boy Scouts working on Eagle Scout projects, and other volunteers.”

Branson Tourism Center’s Johnson points out the addition of the White River Valley Trail System to the list of outdoor activities available to enjoy in Branson is yet another reason that Branson is such a great travel and vacation destination. Like Table Rock Lake, Lake Taneycomo and all the other outdoor activities Branson offers, it is about ten minutes from the Branson Strip and everything else Branson has to offer. For additional information on the trail or any of Branson’s other shows and attractions or for lodging arrangements please contact the Branson Tourism Center (BTC), 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.

Silver Dollar City’s National Harvest Festival is a celebration of American craftsmanship

Chalk Street Art is just one of the amazing crafts and arts featured at the Festival.

“Silver Dollar City’s National Harvest Festival is a prime example of why the U.S. Congress proclaimed Silver Dollar City as “The Home of American Craftsmanship,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. “Continuing a long tradition of being one of America’s ‘most recognized craft festivals,’ over 125 demonstrating craftsmen and artisans from all over the country will gather at Silver Dollar City for the National Harvest Festival being held from September 10 through October 29,” she continued.

Johnson points out that the Festival is an inherent part of the experience that Silver Dollar City has provided its visitors since its early days “when its founding family wanted to share the ways of the Ozarks with visitors to the Ozark Mountains.” It is all about “American crafts and demonstrating craftsmanship – celebrating the handwork, the foods, the music and the long-established camaraderie of the harvest.”

The National Harvest Festival is one of the largest gatherings of demonstrating artists and craftsmen anywhere in America and provides Silver Dollar City guests with a unique opportunity to view a variety of some of the finest craftsmen and artisans in America. From street chalk artistry, painting, and glass blowing to basket weaving, Native American flutes, knife making, basket weaving and dozens more, the over 125 visiting craftsmen from all over the country will provide an unparalleled opportunity for the parks guests to see demonstrations of American craftsmanship at their very best.

The “Best of Missouri Hands – Made in Missouri Juried Art Faire and Competition” will feature some of the best of Missouri’s craftsmen and artists who are all recognized masters in their respective “medium.” Park guests will be able to vote for their favorite pieces. A new feature this year will be the “‘Turning Wood Into Art Showcase’ featuring demonstrating craftsmen with specialties such as life-sized hedge wood horses, instruments and hand carved furniture.”

Just one of the exciting things featured in the "Timber Works Lumberjack Show."

The original award winning musical production of “Headin’ West” which shares the harrowing adventures and colorful characters of America’s westward expansion during the 1870s will also be returning. It has won the “Big-E” award for “Best Overall Production” presented by the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions, has “surprising special effects, vivid scenery and talented performers and is Silver Dollar City’s biggest production show ever!” Also returning will be chain saw wood carving and the popular “Birds of Prey.” New this year will be the “Timberworks Lumberjack Show. This exciting outdoor show features “speed racing up 40 foot poles, cross-cut-sawing, ax throwing,” and much more.

“Missouri’s Largest Barn Dance” is returning by popular demand. This fun filled activity features live bands such as “Texas in the Swing” “Missouri Travelers,” Silver Dollar City’s own “Horsecreek” and Les Gilliam & His Silver Lake Band. If the past is any indication, “seasoned dancers will be on hand to give tips and instruction to beginners.”

In addition to the excellent food service that is normally available throughout the park, the Harvest Festival will be replete with the tastes of Fall. Among other mouth watering choices will be “Indian Tacos,” “Wrangler’s Buffalo Chili,” and a choice of specialty desserts including pies, cobblers and more.

Branson Tourism Center’s Johnson says that all of the activities involved with the Festival are in addition to everything else Silver Dollar City offers on a daily basis. 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.

She also 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.