Category Archives: Branson Events

Festivals add another exciting element to the Branson experience

Silver Dollar City's Worldfest.*

(Branson, Missouri) The word “festival” can be defined in many ways, but in Branson, Missouri we define it as “A celebration of fun!” Many people return to Branson with their families every year because they feel like their time in Branson is one big family festival of fun, entertainment, adventure and excitement.

In addition, although known primarily for its live shows, entertainment, attractions and shopping, proportionately speaking, there’s not a town in America, perhaps the world that offers more quality, variety and numbers of festivals than Branson. From “Kewpiesta,” a three day festival in April celebrating the “Kewpie Doll” and its inventor, Rose O’Neil to the two month celebration of Ozark Mountain Christmas there is a festival being celebrated as part of the fun and excitement Branson offers.

Branson’s biggest and most popular attraction, the 1880s theme park Silver Dollar City features six major festivals each year starting with World-Fest the country’s largest international festival. It wouldn’t be Spring in the Ozarks without this colorful international festival of fun, entertainment, and food. World-Fest allows you and your family to experience the traditions, culture, music, dancing, and excitement of many countries without leaving the beauty and peace of our Ozark hills, but the fun and excitement doesn’t end there.

As is the case with all its festivals, festival activities are in addition to everything else for which Silver Dollar City is famous. You can enjoy any of the 30 rides and attractions in the park including 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, dozens of demonstrating craftsmen and some of the best live shows and entertainment available in Branson, all amid the natural wonder of its Ozarks Mountain setting.

In addition to the Festivals at Silver Dollar City, there are a variety of other festivals held throughout Branson every year to celebrate everything from the “Kewpie Doll, ” Ozark history, heritage and crafts to fiddle playing, Bonnie and Clyde, the traditional Christmas, food and wine and many other things. Here’s a list of just some of the festivals taking place in Branson throughout the year sorted chronologically:

18th Annual IMAX Film Fest – March 18 – April 24
See the World in Branson – No Passport Needed – May 1 – May 30
Silver Dollar City’s Young Christians Weekend – April 1 – 3
Silver Dollar City’s World-Fest – April 7 – May 8
Kewpiesta 2011 – April 13 – 17
Hand in Hand Branson Honors Purple Heart Recipients – April 28 – 30
3rd Annual Missouri Wine and Food Festival – April 29 – 30
Silver Dollar City’s Bluegrass & BBQ Festival – May 12 – May 30
Compton Ridge Campground Fiddle Convention – May 19 – 22
Plumb Nellie Days Arts and Crafts Festival – May 20 – 21
Silver Dollars City’s KidsFest – June 11 – July 24
Shepherd of the Hills Summer Cruise 2011 – August 11 – 13
Silver Dollar City’s Southern Gospel Picnic – August 25 – September 5
23rd Downtown Branson Fiddle Festival & Mid America Fiddle Championship – August 25 – 28
Shepherd of the Hills Fall Festival – September 6 – October 22
Compton Ridge Campground Fiddle Convention – September 8 – 11
Silver Dollar City’s National Harvest Festival – September 10 – October 29
38th Annual Autumn Daze Festival – September 16 – 17
13th Annual Hollister Grape & Fall Festival – September 24
Bonnie & Clyde Festival – October 15
Ozark Mountain Christmas – November 1 – December 31
Veterans Home Coming – November 5 – 11
Silver Dollar City’s – An Old Time Christmas – November 5 – December 30
236th Marine Corps Birthday Ball – November 10

On a day to day basis, Branson’s fun, excitement, entertainment and adventure provides a unique and memorable vacation and entertainment experience. Its broad selection of festivals provides you with an opportunity to make that experience even more special and memorable.

*Photo courtesy of Silver Dollar City

5th Annual Titanic Ice carving competition features “Titans of Ice”

Beautiful ice sculpture with Jaynee, the Titanics First Class Maid.

“The ‘Titanic – Worlds Largest Museum Attraction,’ in Branson, Missouri, is an exciting attraction on its own every day, but throughout the year they have a number of exciting and unique special family events for Branson visitors to see and experience,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. “One of their most anticipated events each year is its free annual Ice Carving Competition which will be held by the bow of the Titanic from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, January 15, 2011.”

This 5th annual event will feature National Ice Carving Association’s (NICA) “Titans of Ice” competing against each other for cash prizes in two divisions, Professional and Amateur. At each level the competitors must create their sculptures from 250 pound blocks of ice within a prescribed period of time. The Amateur Division has three hours to carve one block and the Professional Division has four hours to carve two blocks. The sculptures will be judged by an official NICA judging panel with the results and prizes being awarded at 3 p.m.

NICA, is an association with the stated objective of “promoting ice sculpture through education, competitions, standardized judging, and exhibitions” and is headquartered in Oak Brook, Illinois. In addition to competing for thousands of dollars in cash prizes, the carvers will also be competing for professional recognition within NICA and seeking points under NICA’s certification program

Five years ago, prior to the holding of the very first Ice Carving Competition, Mary Kellogg, co-owner of the Titanic, said it was the first of many special family events coming to the museum designed to give their visitors something new and exciting to see every time they visited. The fact that the Titanic is hosting its 5th Annual Ice Carving Competition as part of their continuing series of unique special family events, including everything from straw horse art to wood carving and reindeer, as well as a continuous stream of exciting new exhibits and features within the museum itself, illustrates the Titanic’s commitment to making each “passenger” visit a fresh entertaining and educational experience.

Johnson points out that the ice carving competition draws thousands of visitor and suggests an early arrival for the best views of competition as these artists turn blocks of ice into fabulous sculptures. For additional information or tickets for the Titanic 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.

Branson says “Happy New Year” like nowhere else

Welcome in the New Year with the excitment and color of the Acrobats of China

“Branson has more unique ways to celebrate the New Year than anywhere else in the country,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. “Whether your idea of celebrating New Year’s Eve is excitement, fun, and entertainment or simply an intimate quite celebration for two, Branson, Missouri is the place to be on New Year’s Eve,” she continued.

She goes on to point out that no matter what time of the day or evening you chose to do it, Branson has an exciting way for you and your family to bid adieu to 2010 and welcome in the New Year. Whether it’s magic, acrobats, dinosaurs, museums, Elvis, galloping horses, fireworks, shopping, attending one of Branson’s fabulous shows or something as simple as a walk on the Branson Landing Boardwalk along the beautiful Lake Taneycomo Lakefront, Branson has New Year’s fun for just about everyone and every budget. Click here for an extensive list of New Years activities, shows, and events.

One of Branson’s major dinner show attractions, Dixie Stampede will be offering its exciting family action show at 5:30 and 8 p.m. on December 31 including a show filled with horses, activity and audience involvement as well as a scrumptious four course meal. It’s something the whole family will enjoy. In addition two of Branson’s other dinner shows The Circle B Supper Club and Christmas on the Trail will be offering early dinner shows also. The timing of these shows is ideal for families with young children, those wanting to celebrate the New Year early or those wanting to see one of Branson’s other New Year’s Eve Shows.

One of Branson's hottest shows, the Haygoods, will be leaving to do an extensive series of show in China right after their New Years Eve show.

As one would expect in Branson, Missouri, “The live music show capital of the world,” Branson shows will provide New Years Eve entertainment, representing the full variety and range of entertainment that Branson has to offer. These include the spectacular Miracle of Christmas; the grace, beauty and the incredible skill and coordination of the Acrobats of China; Yakov’s Moscow Circus; the comedic genius of Jim Stafford,the magic and humor of the Hamner Barber Variety Show as they present their first ever New Year’s Eve Fiesta; the fantastic recreations of Patsy Cline, the Blues Brothers, Michael Jackson, George Strait, The Temptations and Elvis Presley at the Legends in Concert show; the music and comedy of the Grand Jubilee and Pierce Arrow; the musical variety of the Magnificent Variety and the excitment and action of the  Haygoods along with the Righteous Brother Bill Medley, The Cats Pajamas and the Top Ten Rock and Roll Revue. Click here for a complete list and more details.

If you want to celebrate bringing in the New Year on a cruise, how about a cruise on the Branson Landing Princess  or Lake Queen which sail from Branson Landing and will provide a fabulous view of the Branson Landing and the Branson Landing Fire and Light Show from Lake Taneycomo. Both cruises include music, dancing and a celebration bringing in the New Year. The Branson Landing Princess cruise includes a full dinner while the Branson Landing Lake Queen includes Hors’ d oeuvres and a dessert bar. Both will have a cash bar.

The Chateau on the Lake’s New Year’s Eve celebration begins at 7:30 p.m. and includes a complete dinner, reception, dancing and New Years Eve party event. The Chateau’s fireworks, welcoming the New Year, is a spectacular display viewed in the reflection of Table Rock Lake. It is visible from many locations around Table Rock Dam, including the lake, the scenic overlook on State Highway 165, and other spots along State Highways 265 and 165.

In addition, most of Branson’s exciting attractions will be open on December 31 and January 1 as well as its two major drive through Christmas lighting displays, the Shepherd of the Hills Trail of Lights and the Branson Area Festival of Lights. Factor in great shopping and dining and New Year’s Eve in Branson is a great way to welcome in the New Year and start 2011 off in a special way.

Branson Tourism Center’s Johnson advised that weather and other factors could cause schedule changes. For additional information on any of the shows mentioned in this article 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.

The fun and excitement of Ozark Mountain Christmas continues through December 31

Titanic's First Class Maid Jaynee with one of Santa's Reindeer.

“Ozark Mountain Christmas, Branson’s unique celebration of the true spirit of Christmas will run through December 31,” said Mark Bryson, the Director of Operations for the Branson on the Web, a subsidiary of the  Branson Tourism Center. “Although many of Branson’s shows will be concluding their 2010 Season within the next couple of weeks there are always live shows to see in the ‘Live Music Show Capital of the World’ and the fun and excitement that Branson is known for gives its visitors the opportunity for a special Christmas memory they will never forget,” he continued.

“From Christmas productions like Sight and Sound’s Miracle of Christmas, A Dicken’s Christmas Carol at Silver Dollar City’s Old Time Christmas, and Christmas on the Trail to a variety of other Branson shows, there is a show for every taste,” said Bryson. He also points out that the search engine on Branson on the Web has a convenient sort feature that makes it extremely easy to, among other things, see what shows are available on any given day and time. Using that feature the search result shows that the following shows will be available, as scheduled, throughout the remainder of Ozark Mountain Christmas season including the week after Christmas:

Acrobats of China
Hamner Barber Variety Show
Jim Stafford
Pierce Arrow
Showboat Branson Belle
Yakov’s Moscow Circus
Amazing Pets
Clay Cooper’s Country Music Express
Comedy Jamboree
Grand Jubilee
Haygoods
Legends in Concert
Magnificent Variety
The Texas Tenors
Tony Roi’s Elvis Experience
Absolutely Patsy
Breakfast with Mark Twain
Dixie Stampede
Elvis and the Superstars
Kirby VanBurch
Legends in Concert
Ozark Murder Mysteries
Red, Hot & Blue
The Cat’s Pajamas
The Texas Tenors
Top 10 Rock and Roll Revue

“Some of Branson’s major attractions are all celebrating Ozark Mountain Christmas with special activities,” Bryson said. He points out that one of the nation’s premier Christmas celebrations, An Old Time Christmas is at Silver Dollar City until December 31 and the Titanic Museum is not only decked out for Christmas, but will be featuring Santa and his live reindeer on December 10 and 11. The Butterfly Palace and Rainforest Adventure features its unique and beautiful “White Flight,” with thousands of White Butterflies fluttering like living snowflakes amid a rainforest sparkling with thousands of twinkling lights to the accompaniment of fantastic holiday music through January 15, 2011. In addition, the vast majority of Branson’s other Attractions will also be open for the remainder of Ozark Mountain Christmas season including:

Adventure Ziplines of Branson
Amazing Waltzing Waters
Branson Auto Museum
Branson Landing Cruises Lake Queen
Branson Landing Cruises Lake Princess
Butterfly Palace & Rainforest Adventure
Diana The People’s Princess
Dinosaur Museum
Haunted House
Hollywood Wax Museum
Inspiration Tower
Ripley’s Believe It or Not
Veterans Memorial Museum
Vigilante Zipline
World’s Largest Toy Museum

Bryson said that the two major drive through lighting displays for Ozark Mountain Christmas will also be open through December 31. 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 provides one of the most unique and memorable drive-through lighting experiences most people will ever experience. In addition, it 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, and is conveniently located a few blocks off the Branson Strip.

Bryson suggests that those planning a visit to Branson take advantage of the search capability of Branson on the Web or, use the free personal concierge type service provided by one of Branson Tourism Center’s knowledgeable local Vacation Planning Specialists by contacting 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.

Last 2010 call for some of Branson’s most popular shows

The spectacle and wonder of the Sight and Sound's "Miracle of Christmas."

“Branson’s celebration of Ozark Mountain Christmas runs from November 1 through December 31,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. “Although major elements of Ozark Mountain Christmas such as Silver Dollar City’s Old Time Christmas; major lighting displays such as Shepherd of the Hills Trail of Lights and the Branson Festival of Lights; the majority of Branson’s attractions and its shopping will continue through December 31, many of Branson’s Christmas shows be ending during the first two weeks of December,” Johnson continued.

According to Branson.Com’s Official Show Schedule, the final 2010 performances for some of Branson’s most popular shows are shown below. The list is sorted alphabetically by the date of the last 2010 show.

December 4
George Dyer
Mel Tillis Family Christmas

December 7
Duttons

December 10
Neal McCoy
Spirit of Christmas

December 11
Andy Williams
Country Tonite
Osmonds
Rankin Brothers
Presleys’ Country Jubilee
Righteous Brother Bill Medley (One show on December 31)
Shake Rattle and Roll
SIX
Tony Orlando and the Lennon Sister Christmas Celebration
Yakov Smirnoff

December 12
Shoji Tabuchi – December 12

December 18
Baldknobbers
Hughes Brothers
Twelve Irish Tenors

December 30
Clay Cooper
Jim Stafford
Showboat Branson Belle

December 31
Acrobats of China
Amazing Pets
Comedy Jamboree
Grand Jubilee
Hamner Barber
Haygoods
Legends in Concert
Magnificent Variety
Miracle of Christmas
Pierce Arrow
The Cats Pajamas
Yakov’s Moscow Circus

Johnson points out that shows with ending dates after December 18 could be closed for periods of time between December 11 and the end of the year. For specific scheduling or information on any these or other Branson’s shows and attractions or help with lodging please feel free to contact the Branson Tourism Center (BTC) by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

BTC’s Cyber Monday 2-Day Sale offers fabulous deals and flexibility for Branson travel now and in 2011

“What an opportunity to save money on a Branson Trip,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center, “but like most opportunities there’s a narrow window.” Johnson was talking about the Cyber Monday 2 Day Sale that Branson Tourism Center (BTC) is running Monday, November 29 and Tuesday November 30 and the fabulous opportunity it offers those planning to visit Branson in 2011, or even later this year, the chance to save a flat 10 percent.

During the Cyber Monday Sale  For every $100.00 gift card purchased for 2011, get an extra $10.00 gift card FREE! “That’s a whopping ten percent savings,” said Johnson. She points out that the cards can be redeemed through Branson Tourism Center for show tickets, lodging, packages, or any other services that we offer. (excluding airline tickets, golf, and car rentals.)”

“What’s neat about the gift card is that you save the money now, but can plan your 2011 trip later to take advantage of whatever the 2011 Branson season has to offer in terms of shows, attractions, lower prices, packages and other specials,” said Johnson. “You have the full flexibility how and when to use the gift card.

Johnson also points out that the BTC Cyber Monday Sale also offers free trip cancellation insurance on tickets and lodging purchased during the sale. This insurance makes it easy to reserve early and lock in the best availability and pricing with the peace of mind that you can change or cancel anything on your itinerary up until the day you arrive with no fees for any reason, lower prices. changing your mind etc.

For those wanting to see the Andy Williams Christmas show the sale offers two to four day packages at a considerable saving over the already discounted package price. It should be noted that these packages must be used prior to December 11 because that is the last day of the Andy Williams Christmas show for 2010.

Johnson points out that Branson Tourism Center is one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services, has an A+ Rating from the BBB, and is well on its way to selling its three millionth Branson show and attraction ticket. For additional information on BTC’s Cyber Monday 2-Day sale or tickets for any of Branson’s other shows and attractions or for lodging arrangements please contact them at by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

Branson Christmas show highlights in their own words

Jim and Ann Stafford in the Christmas scene Jim "magically" creates.

“A recent article entitled ‘Special Moments from Branson 2010 Christmas Shows,’ presents a unique view of some of Branson’s Christmas shows,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. The article reports that recently some of the performers and others involved with some of Branson’s most popular Christmas shows were asked if they would share “one of their personal favorite special moments” from their respective 2010 Christmas show.

“The result is a concise and unique view of each on each of  the Christmas shows in the article,” said Johnson. “What really makes it neat,” she continued, “Is that, in combination with each other, the total article paints a montage of the breadth of entertainment that Branson’s Christmas shows offer. Where else in America, except in Branson, Missouri, can a person see ‘Mr. Christmas,’ Andy Williams perform his Christmas Show, the spectacular “Miracle of Christmas” presented on a 300 foot surround stage, Tony Orlando and the Lennon Sisters Christmas Celebration and dozens of other quality Christmas shows of every type and variety?”

Johnson goes on to point out that Branson’s shows are just a part of the excitement and spirit of Christmas in Branson. Branson’s Ozark Mountain Christmas is filled with activities and attractions for the whole family such as drive through Christmas light displays, Old Time Christmas at Silver Dollar City and some of the best shopping available anywhere.

Article excerpts:

Jim Stafford Show – Cindy Merry, the marketing consultant for the show, says the moment would be when the Christmas segment starts with the almost magical creation of a beautiful Christmas scene from a bare stage while Jim is singing an original song he wrote, “Oh Boy Its Christmas Time.”

Presleys’ Country Jubilee – Steve Presley said it would be the opening of the Christmas segment with the combination of the message of Christmas and the acoustical rendition of “What Child is This,” because it explains the reason for the season and sets the mood for the whole Christmas segment.

Click here for entire article.

Johnson said that the article highlights special moments from a dozen other shows and “reminds Branson visitors that Ozark Mountain Christmas is the busiest part of Branson’s season suggesting that they make advance reservations for shows and lodging.” She offers the free personal services of the Branson Tourism Center (BTC), one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services and their Branson Vacation Specialists, for additional information, tickets and lodging arrangements. BTC can be reached by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

A little help in planning a great Ozark Mountain Christmas experience

Silver Dollar City's “Gifts of Christmas Holiday Light Parade” winds its way toward the City Square and the five story Special Effects Christmas Tree.

“Branson’s 2010 Ozark Mountain Christmas is a wonderful thing to experience,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. In an article entitled “Plan for a Branson Christmas in the heat of summer,” published during the 100 degree heat of last summer, she said that it was the busiest season of the year in Branson and recommended that advanced reservations be made for lodging and shows.

She also said, “During Branson’s regular season there are periods when shows and lodging fill up. However, during Ozark Mountain Christmas, particularly with the more popular shows and lodging establishments, that situation increases greatly.” The article points out that not only do the chances of non availability increase, but the chances of getting the best show seats, choice of accommodations and the best prices decrease the longer one waits.

Now, actually into the second week of Ozark Mountain Christmas, with some of the busiest times of the year coming up in the next few weeks, Johnson again encourages those coming to Branson for Ozark Mountain Christmas to make show and lodging reservations ahead of time to ensure availability and avoid frustration. She says that many of Branson’s more popular shows are booked for many performances and lodging is tight, but emphasizes that need not detour anyone from coming to Branson.

She points out that the Branson Tourism Center (BTC), is one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services and well on its way to selling its three millionth Branson show and attraction ticket. BTC enjoys an excellent reputation with Branson’s shows, attractions and lodging establishments which enables them, even at a busy time of the year like Ozark Mountain Christmas, to help their customers obtain not only the best seats and accommodations for shows, attractions and lodging but, in most cases, to save money when they are purchased together.

“There is much to consider when planning a trip to Branson and it’s not just shows and rooms,” she advises. For example, Silver Dollar City’s Ole Time Christmas is an outstanding event with so much to do, including great shows, such as “A Dickens’ Christmas Carol,” rides, craft demonstrations etc. that one day might not be enough time to experience all that Silver Dollar City and an Old Time Christmas have to offer. However, with a little advance planning one could purchase a two day ticket from BTC for the price of a one day ticket and have plenty of time to comfortably see and enjoy all that Old Time Christmas has to offer.

“The good news,” Johnson said, “Is that Branson Tourism Center (BTC) has a trained staff of Branson Vacation Planners who will answer any questions about Ozark Mountain Christmas or any other Branson show, attraction, or lodging. Their advice is free and there is never a service fee of any kind when purchasing tickets or lodging through the Branson Tourism Center.” BTC can be reached by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

Paul Revere and the Raiders provide exclusive Branson opportunity

A recent article entitled “Exclusive Branson up close and personal event with Paul Revere and the Raiders” reported on an exclusive expanded meet and greet session that will be held with Paul Revere and the Raiders on December 4th after their 3:00 p.m. show. Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center said that the exclusive meet and greet for Branson Tourism customers is an expansion of the meet and greet tradition of Branson stars and entertainers meeting their audiences after the shows for photos and autographs etc. Click here for a list of Branson shows that have indicated they either meet and greet the audience during intermission or after the show.

Johnson said that Paul Revere and the Raiders routinely meet and greet all their audiences at each performance, but on December 4th they are going to have an exclusive additional meet and greet for Branson Tourism Center customers who attend that show. It will provide a special opportunity to meet with the legendary American rock band that has had such hits as “Louie Louie,” “Steppin’ Out,” “Good Thing,” “Like Long Hair,” “The Great Airplane Strike,” “Just Like Me,” “Hungry,” “Kicks” and “Indian Reservation.

Those Branson Tourism Center customers attending Paul Revere and the Raiders Show on that date will receive a voucher for the exclusive meet and greet at the Andy Williams’ Moon River Grill. Johnson notes that it will provide Paul Revere and the Raiders’ Fans with an “opportunity to enjoy great food and beverages while taking pictures, and talking with them in a more private and exclusive setting.” Johnson describes the event as part of the value added services that Branson Tourism Center provides for its customers.

For additional information or tickets for the Paul Revere and the Raiders Show 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.

Highlights of Special Events honoring Veterans during Branson Veterans Home Coming Week

“Thousands of Veterans and active duty U. S. Military personnel and their families will be honored in Branson during Branson Veterans Home Coming Week, November 5 through the 11,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. “Here is a list of some of the events, many of them free, compiled by the Branson Veterans Task Force and Branson Lakes Area CVB,” she added.

The list is sorted by starting date and is subject to change:

Veterans Day Room (Friday, Nov. 5 – Wednesday, Nov. 10)
Location: Factory Merchants Branson
Hours: 9 AM – 6 PM
Phone: 417-335-4041
Admission: Free Admission

Traveling Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial Wall (Friday, Nov. 5 – Monday, Nov 15)
Location: Welk Resort Branson
Hours: 8 AM – 8 PM
Admission: Free Admission

Lost Heroes Art Quilt (Friday, Nov. 5 – Monday, Nov. 15)
Location: Welk Resort Branson
Hours: 8 AM – 8 PM
Admission: Free Admission

WWII Aviation Art Prints on Display (Friday, Nov. 5 – Monday, Nov. 15)
Location: Dick’s Old Time 5 & 10 (Historic Downtown Branson)
Hours: 8:30 AM – 9 PM Mon. – Sat. 9 AM – 9 PM Sun.
Admission: Free Admission
Over 85 WWII aviation art prints permanently on display.  Most prints are signed by pilot(s) and crew who were on the mission that the print depicts.

Opening Ceremony (Friday, November 5)
Location: Sight & Sound Theatres
Hours: 12 PM – 2 PM
Admission: Free Admission

Showboat Branson Belle “Special Salute to Veterans” (Friday, Nov. 5)
Location: Showboat Branson Belle
Hours: 8 PM (Boarding begins at 7 PM)
Admission: $44 Per Person (all inclusive rate includes cruise, meal, show, tax and gratuity)
Web: http://www.showboatbransonbelle.com
Branson’s only Entertainment Dining Cruise! Two hour cruise on beautiful Table Rock Lake with Showstopping Production Show, fabulous 3-course meal plus, that evening, a special salute to Veterans!

Reveille and Retreat (Saturday, Nov. 6 – Wednesday, Nov. 10)
Location: Factory Merchants Branson
Hours: Daily 7 AM Reveille and 4 PM Retreat
Admission: Free Admission

Veterans Village and BVTF Tactical Operations Center (Saturday, Nov. 6 – Thursday, Nov. 11)
Location: Factory Merchants Branson
Hours: 9 AM – 4 PM
Phone: 417-337-8387
Admission: Free Admission

Veterans Registry (Saturday, Nov. 6 – Thursday, Nov. 11)
Location: Factory Merchants Branson
Hours: 9 AM – 4 PM
Phone: 417-337-8387
Admission: Free Admission

Persian Gulf War Mini Reunion (Saturday, Nov. 6)
Location: Golden Corral
Hours: 9 AM – 12 PM
Admission: Free Continental Breakfast and Entertainment
This event is for those who served during Desert Shield, Desert Storm, Iraq, and Afghanistan. Coordinated by Branson Veterans Events & Reunions, and hosted by Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 913, Branson, MO.

WWII Veterans Mini Reunion (Saturday, Nov. 6)
Location: College of the Ozarks
Hours: 3 PM – 5 PM
Phone: 417-337-8387
Admission: Free Admission

Veteran’s Shoot (Sunday, Nov. 7)
Location: Ozark Shooters Sports Complex (759 US Hwy 65, North of Branson)
Hours: 10 AM – 12 PM
Sporting Clays, Trap and Wobble Trap. Lunch will be available.

Video Presentation by Lt. Col. Bill Groninger, SR-71 Blackbird Pilot (Sunday, Nov. 7)
Location: Branson Shenanigans RV Park Clubhouse (3675 Keeter Street)
Hours: 7 PM
Admission: Free Admission
The Blackbird was the Air Force’s fastest, highest flying manned spy plane ever flown.  Featured on the Discovery Channel.

Women Veterans Mini Reunion Reception (Monday, Nov.8)
Location: Branson Mall Meeting & Event Center
Hours: 5 PM – 7 PM

Women Veterans Mini Reunion Show (Monday, Nov.8)
Location: Mickey Gilley Theater
Hours: 8 PM
Admission: Free Admission for Veterans

14th Annual Military Gala & Banquet (Monday, Nov.8)
Location: Chateau on the Lake Resort
Hours: 5 PM
Phone: 866-481-GALA (4252) for Reservations (Required)
Admission: $51 per person
Tickets include the salute to National Guard and Reserve forces, POW/MIA candlelight service, dinner and outdoor fireworks display.  Cash bar cocktails begin at 5 p.m. with salute beginning at 6 p.m. and fireworks just before 8 p.m.  Master of Ceremonies is Erwin Schultze, National Service Officer for the Disabled American Veterans.  TOPS IN BLUE, the US Air Force’s premier musical group performs following the fireworks display.

Tops in Blue Performance (Monday, Nov.8)
Location: Chateau on the Lake Resort
Hours: 8 PM
Admission: Free Admission
United States Air Force Tops in Blue perform following the gala and banquet.  Doors open to the public for the FREE performance at 8 p.m.  Reservations are not required for the performance.  Seating is on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Korean War Veterans Mini Reunion (Tuesday, Nov. 9)
Location: Stone Castle Hotel & Conference Center
Hours: 9 AM – 12 PM
Phone: 417-365-1389
Admission: Free Admission

Women Veterans Rose Petal Ceremony (Tuesday, Nov. 9)
Location: Keeter Center at College of the Ozarks
Hours: 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Admission: Free Admission

William G. (Jerry) Boykin, Lt. Gen. (ret.) U.S. Army to Sign Books (Tuesday, Nov. 9)
Location: Bass Pro Shops in Springfield
Hours: 11 AM – 1 PM
Admission: Free Admission

William G. (Jerry) Boykin, Lt. Gen. (ret.) U.S. Army to Sign Books (Tuesday, Nov. 9)
Location: Bass Pro Shops in Branson
Hours: 4 PM – 6 PM
Admission: Free Admission

Penny Gilley Show featuring Jeff Brandt (Tuesday, Nov. 9)
Location: The Mansion Theatre
Hours: 3 PM
Admission: Free Admission for Veterans (Reservations Recommended)

POW/MIA Service (Wednesday, Nov. 10)
Location: Welk Resort Branson at the Vietnam Memorial Wall
Hours: 8 AM
Admission: Free Admission
Service will be held outdoors.  Sponsored by the Welk Resort Branson.  Music by the LeCroy Sisters, wreath laying, guest speakers.

Vietnam Veterans Mini Reunion (Wednesday, Nov. 10)
Location: Charlie’s Steak, Ribs & Ale
Hours: 2 PM – 5 PM
Admission: Free Admission

235th Marine Corps Birthday Ball (Wednesday, Nov. 10)
Location: Branson Convention Center
Hours: 5 PM – 11 PM
Phone: 866-279-3415 for Reservations
Admission: $60 Per Person (Seating is limited)
Web: http://www.branson.com or http://www.veteransgalleria.com
Open to all Marines and the general public.  The celebration includes social hour with cash bar, the traditional U.S. Marine Corps Birthday Ceremony and cake cutting, an elegant dinner and dancing until 2400 hours (Midnight) with a surprise or two along the way. The Key Note Speaker is Col. Jim Sims (ret), National Commander of the Military Order of the Purple Heart, former Aide to the White House Chief of Staff, former Secretary of the General Staff of the Marine Corps Headquarters.  For more information call 417-334-2360.

76th Annual Veteran’s Day Parade (Thursday, Nov. 11)
Location: Historic Downtown Branson
Hours: 11 AM
Phone: 417-337-8387
Admission: Free Admission

Tony Orlando’s Yellow Ribbon Salute (Thursday, Nov. 11)
Location: Welk Resort Branson
Hours: 2 PM
Phone: 800-505-9355
Admission: Free Admission For Veterans and (1) Guest (Reservations Recommended)

Closing Ceremony (Thursday, Nov. 11)
Location: Tri-Lakes Center
Hours: 2:30 PM
Admission: Free Admission

Johnson suggests calling the Branson Veterans Task Force at 417-337-8387 for the latest information on these and other events associated with Branson Veterans Homecoming Week. Additionally, she offers the assistance of the company she works with, the Branson Tourism Center (BTC), one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services, in answering questions regarding Branson Veterans Week activities, the U.S. Marine Corps Ball or Ozark Mountain Christmas. BTC would also be pleased to assist with information or tickets for any of Branson’s other shows and attractions or for lodging arrangements. BTC can be reached by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550, at their offices conveniently located at 220 Branson Hills Parkway in Branson, or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.