Category Archives: Branson Events

Branson’s U.S. Marine Corps Birthday Ball one of many Branson Veterans Home Coming Week highlights

"The few. The proud . The Marines" celebrate their 235th Birthday.

“The celebration of the 235th birthday of the U.S. Marine Corps and having a good time will be the central focus of the Marine Corps Ball to be held at the Branson Convention Center in Branson, Missouri from 1700 to 2400 hours (5:00 p.m. to Midnight) on November 10,” said Marlyce Stockinger, Director of Advertising & Public Relations for Branson.Com, the event’s sponsor along with the Branson Tourism Center. “It is one of the many exciting special events held to honor America’s Veterans, active duty military personal and their families during the celebration of “Branson’s Veterans Homecoming Week” and has special significance to U.S. Marines and their families.

Stockinger said that the celebration starts with a social hour and cash bar at 1700 hours (5 p.m.). It will be followed by 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 keynote speaker for the event is Colonel James Sims, U.S. Marine Corps, Retired who is currently the Commander of the National Military Order of the Purple Heart. Colonel Sims served in the U.S. Marine Corps for 26 years receiving the Purple Heart for combat wounds received while a company commander in Viet Nam. During his career Colonel Sims served as an instructor at the Marine Corps Command & Staff College, as an Aide to the White House Chief of Staff and at the time of his retirement was the Chief of Political Military Analysis for the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

“The Few, The Proud, The United States Marine Corps” was established November 10, 1775 by a resolution of the Continental Congress. Since then it has served our country in every war and conflict from the Revolutionary War to the War on Terrorism with honor and distinction. The remembrance and celebration of that birthday dates back to 1921 when the 13th Commandant of the U.S. Marine Corps, General John A. Lejeune issued a Marine Corps Order summarizing the tradition, history and mission of the Corps and directed that the order be read at all commands “on the 10th of November, 1921 and hereafter on the 10th of November of every year.”

Through the years the formal reading of Lejune’s order was followed by additional celebrations including the ceremonial cutting of a birthday cake and a celebratory ball. In 1951 the 20th Commandant of the U.S. Marine Corps, Lemuel C. Shepherd Jr., formalized some of these traditions by adding the reading of the current Commandant’s message and the cake cutting ceremony using the U. S. Marine Corps Officer’s Mameluke Sword. Those traditions have remained in place ever since and are honored at virtually every Marine installation every November 10.

For additional information or tickets on the Marine Corps Ball please call the Branson Tourism Center at 1-866-279-3415  or click here to visit the events website. For additional information 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.

Silver Dollar City co-founders Jack and Pete Herschend at Springfield book signing

Silver Dollar City's founders, left to right, Jack, Mary and Peter Herschend.

“What a special remembrance and keepsake of the 50th Anniversary of Silver Dollar City, ” said Levi Kurtright, Director of Marketing for the Branson Tourism Center. Kurtright was referring to the announcement that the co founders of Silver Dollar City, Jack and Pete Herschend and their wives, will be in Borders at 3300 S. Glenstone Avenue in Springfield, from Noon until 2 p.m. Saturday October 16 to sign copies of the Springfield News Leader’s SDC 50th Anniversary book “50 Years of Making Memories.” The stores phone number is 417 881-4111.

A spectacular 50th year anniversary celebration of Silver Dollar City’s opening is winding down. The book signing provides a unique opportunity to not only get your copy of the book signed but to meet the Herschends personally.

Kurtright points out that even as the book signing is going on, Silver Dollar City will be doing what is has done for over 50 years, helping people “Create Memories Worth Repeating” as they attend the parks National Harvest Festival running through October 30. The last event of Silver Dollar City’s 50th Anniversary celebration will be its world class award winning festival, An Old Time Christmas.

For additional information or tickets for Silver Dollar City 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’s Veterans Week and Ozark Mountain Christmas make ABA Top 100 Events List

Silver Dollar City lights up for its "An Old Time Christmas" celebration.

“It’s another indication of the quality and type of experience that people can expect when they visit Branson, Missouri” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. Johnson was referring to the recent announcement by the American Bus Association (ABA) that included both “Branson Veterans Week,” commonly called  “Branson Veterans Home Coming Week,” and “Ozark Mountain Christmas” on its “2011 List of the Top 100 Events in North America.”

In the announcement, Peter J. Pantuso, CTIS, ABA’s president and CEO said, “The attractiveness of Branson Veterans Week as a don’t miss entertainment value is only part of why its selection this year is such a distinction for Branson, Missouri.” He goes on to point out that the real news is the recognition of Branson Veterans Home Coming Week “as a potential magnet for tourism dollars, at a time when reenergizing domestic tourism is so important to our spirit and our economy” and that the honor gives Branson “an important boost in visibility among professional tour planners.”

This is the second year in a row that Branson Veterans Home Coming has received Top 100 List recognition and the sixth year in a row for Ozarks Mountain Christmas. “The great news for Branson visitors,” says Johnson, “is that they can experience both events at the same time.”

Johnson explains that, “Ozark Mountain Christmas, running from November 1 through January 2, is a special and unique Christmas experience resulting from the synergy of all that Branson is. It has everything from drive through lighting displays, to great shopping, spectacular Christmas shows, “Silver Dollar City’s An Ole Time Christmas” and that special Branson way of celebrating the true spirit of Christmas that makes Ozark Mountain Christmas a unique one of a kind celebration.

The "Marine Corps Ball" is just one of the many exciting and colorful events held during "Branson Veterans Homecoming Week."

Johnson describes Branson Veterans Home Coming as a “weeklong celebration filled with events and activities honoring America’s Veterans, active duty Armed Forces personnel and their families.” She points out that there is a variety of events, most of which are free to Veterans, all with the same theme, to honor America’s Military and their families. These events include the “Traveling Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial Wall;” the Showboat Branson Belle’s “Special Salute to Veterans; “The United States Marine Corps 235th Birthday Ball,” Tony Orlando’s Yellow Ribbon Salute; the 77th Annual Veterans Day Parade through historic downtown Branson on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month and much more. Click here for a complete schedule of events.

Johnson said that November through the middle of December is one of the busiest times of the year in Branson and recommends advance reservations, particularly with the more popular shows and lodging establishments. She points out that the company she works for, the Branson Tourism Center (BTC), is one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services. This puts BTC in an excellent position to help their customers obtain not only the best seats and accommodations, but often, particularly when shows, attractions and lodging are bundled into one package, save them money. BTC can be reached by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

Branson’sVeterans Homecoming Week – About our Veterans, the Military and their families

“One of the largest ‘Veterans Day’ celebrations in the world, Branson’s Veterans Homecoming Week, will be celebrated in Branson, Missouri starting on November 5 and running through November 11,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. “Although Branson has a special place in its heart for Veterans, with the vast majority of its many live shows routinely honoring America’s Veterans, active duty Armed Forces personnel and their families on a daily basis, Branson’s Veterans Homecoming Week is special.”

“It’s a week long celebration filled with events and activities honoring America’s Veterans, active duty Armed Forces personnel and their families,” Johnson continued. “There is a variety of events, most of which are free to Veterans, all with the same theme, to honor America’s Military and their families.”

Some of the major highlights include the Opening Ceremony at the home of the spectacular “Miracle of Christmas” show, the Sight and Sound Theatre on November 5 at 1230; the “Traveling Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial Wall” at the Welk Theater from November 5 through the 15th; the Showboat Branson Belle’s “Special Salute to Veterans on November 5 at 1900; many mini reunions such as the “WW II Veterans Mini Reunion” on November 6 from 1400 to 1700 at the College of The Ozarks; the 4th Annual Military Gala & Banquet on November 8 at 1700; the “The United States Marine Corps 235th Birthday Ball,” Tony Orlando’s Yellow Ribbon Salute on November 11 at 1400; the 77th Annual Veterans Day Parade through historic downtown Branson on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month and the Closing Ceremony at Tri-lakes Center at 1400.

The Veterans Village and Branson Veterans Task Force Tactical Operations Center will be located at the Factory Merchants Mall, (Red Roof Mall) and will be open from 0900 to 1600 daily from November 6th through the 10th. It will host one of the two Veterans Registries with the other being at the Veterans Memorial Museum, located at 1250 West 76 Country Music Blvd; vendors booths and the “All American Lunch” served free to Veterans daily between November 6 through November 10 by Steve’s Tree House and Grill betwee 1130 and 1300. It will also provide a convenient place to just relax and fellowship with old friends and new acquaintances as well as the latest information about the week’s events and Veteran discounts.

Branson Tourism Center’s Johnson points out that in addition to the full slate of Veterans Homecoming Week activities, those attending can participate in the first week of Branson’s “Ozark Mountain Christmas” with all the excitement it provides, including the opening of Branson’s major Christmas shows and its drive through Christmas Lighting displays and the Silver Dollar City’s award winning “An Old Time Christmas” which starts on November 6 and runs through December 30.

Johnson extends a warm and heartfelt welcome to all the Veterans, active duty Military personnel and their families that will be coming to Branson and says, “Thank you for your service and sacrifice.” For additional information about Branson’s Veterans Homecoming Week activities, Ozark Mountain Christmas, or Branson shows, attractions or lodging please contact Branson Tourism Center, (BTC), one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services. BTC can be reached by calling 800-785-1550, through its website www.BransonTourismCenter.com or through a personal visit to its office located at 220 Branson Hills Parkway in Branson just west of the Bee Creek Highway 65 exit.

The Track Family Fun Park #3 hosts benefit for Gift of Hope on October 2

The Track Family Fun Park #3 located at 2505 W. Hwy 76, Branson will host a Gift of  Hope Fundraiser for the benefit its Backpack Club and Christmas Share programs on Saturday, October 2, 2010 between 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. Those attending will enjoy reduced rates with $5.00 one-pass rides including bumper boats and miniature golf and “Kids Kountry” passes at $5.00 for 1 hour.”

The Gift of Hope’s mission is “Providing essentials and pathways to independence for Taney County Families.” One of the ways it does that is through “The Backpack Club” which provides a backpack of nutritious food for children who have shown signs of hunger outside of the school meal program.  Children receive the food each weekend during the school year. The Christmas Share program will provide customized assistance to approximately 30 families in need during the winter months.

“Branson visitors as well as locals can enjoy this great event,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services. “The Track Family Fun Park #3 has many of ways for the whole family to have fun with everything from the “Wild Woody Go Cart Track,” to bumper boats, miniature golf, a “Kids Kountry” with special rides for the younger children and so much more. What a great way for families to have an afternoon of fun, save money and help a great cause.”

She also reminds Branson visitors that Silver Dollar City’s National Harvest Festival runs through October 30. For information on the Gift of Hope Benefit please call 417-546-8062. For additional information or tickets for any of Branson’s shows and attractions or for lodging arrangements please contact the Branson Tourism Center by calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

Like the leaves of fall a variety of entertainment is falling on Branson

The Grammy award winning, Michael Bolton

“The breadth of the regular live shows that Branson has to offer is amazing, ” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. “The variety of its regularly scheduled shows covers just about every area of entertainment from acrobats, cirque and Kung Fu to showboats, outdoor drama, thundering horses, the circus, and every genre of music from country and blue grass to pop, rock and roll and easy listening with everything in between.”

“When that variety is expanded with the addition of shows that perform limited engagements in Branson there is a variety of live shows that is unequalled by any other destination city anywhere near Branson’s size,” she continued. “Look at the variety of the limited engagement entertainment that visitors to Branson will have the opportunity to see between now and the end of October.”

The following list is sorted by starting date. For many, links are provided for further information, schedules and pricing:

Andy Williams, September 2 through October 23 (Christmas Show starts November 1)
Roy Clark with Justin David, September 13 through October 26
Ray Stevens, September 15 through Oct 23
Country’s Family Reunion, September 19 and 20
Ozark Murder Mysteries Sundays only
Oak Ridge Boys, September 21 through October 21
The Texas Tenors, September 28 through October 23
Vicki Lawrence/Mama, October 8 and 9 only
Mid West Country Stars, October 20 and 21 only.
The Front Men of Alabama, Lonestar, and Restless Heart October 22 only
Michael Bolton on October 23 only.
Miracle of Christmas, starts for Christmas season October 30.

Johnson also points out that the limited engagement performances are in addition to the full complement of Branson’s many other shows, attractions, festivals and major activities that will be taking place between now and the end of October such as:

Silver Dollar City’s National Harvest Festival, September 11 – October 30
Shepherd of the Hills Fall Harvest Festival, September 7 – October 23
Autumn Daze Arts and Crafts Festival, September 16 -19
Ironman Branson 70.3, September 19
12th Annual Hollister Grape & Fall Festival, September 25
First Annual Titanic Firehouse Chili Cook-off, October 2
BBQ & Big Smith at Branson Creek, October 2
Titanic’s 3rd Annual Woodcarving Event, October 8 – 10
Midwest Hunting and Fishing Expo, October 8 -10

“Mother Nature adds perhaps the greatest “‘show’ of all to the mix,” said Johnson. “In addition to everything else Branson has to offer, the Fall foliage in the Ozarks is a beautiful thing to see.”

She advises that the Fall Season is a particularly busy one in Branson and recommends making show and lodging reservations well in advance to insure that the seating and accommodations meet expectations. For additional information or tickets for these shows, attractions or events mentioned in this article, or 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. It can be reached by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

The National Harvest Festival – one reason why Silver Dollar City is “The Home of American Craftsmanship”

Gourd Painting is just one of the many crafts featured in the National Harvest Festival.

“You know fall is coming to the Ozarks when the National Harvest Festival starts at Silver Dollar City,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. “It’s been an exciting and important part of fall in the Ozarks for decades.”

The National Harvest 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 a festival of “American crafts and demonstrating craftsmanship – celebrating the handwork, the foods, the music and the long-established camaraderie of the harvest…” Long known for preserving our Ozarks, history, heritage and craftsmanship, the U.S. Congress recently recognized Silver Dollar City by proclaiming it “The Home of American Craftsmanship.”

Silver Dollar City’s “National Harvest Festival,” running from September 11 through October 30 not only illustrates the appropriateness of that recognition, but will provide Silver Dollar City guests with a unique opportunity to view a variety of some of the finest craftsmen in America. Over 130 visiting craftsmen from all over the country will demonstrate their art or craft. From glass blowing and painting to basket weaving, Native American flutes, knife making, basket weaving and many more crafts. The National Harvest Festival is one of the largest gatherings of demonstrating artists and craftsmen anywhere in America.

New to the Festival this year will be the “Craft in America Exhibit” from the creators of the Peabody awarded PBS documentary series featuring 50 works from nationally acclaimed artisans such as Kit Carson, Richard Notkin, Tom Joyce and many others; the “Craftsmen’s Reunion Showcase” featuring renowned craftsmen previously featured at Silver Dollar City such as noted outdoor artist Tom Crain and wood carver Peter Engler; the “Caricature Carvers of America Showcase” and the “Learn-How-To-Do-It-Yourself Craft Workshops.” Returning again this year will be the  “Best of Missouri Hands” featuring some of the best of Missouri’s craftsmen and artists featuring juried members of the “Missouri Artisans Association” who are all Missouri residents and recognized as masters in their respective “medium.”

The National Harvest Festival will also present an original award winning musical production sharing the harrowing adventures and colorful characters of America’s westward expansion during the 1860s entitled “Headin’ West.” The production has ” surprising special effects, vivid scenery and talented performers and is Silver Dollar City’s biggest production show ever!” In 2009 it won the “Big-E” award for “Best Overall Production” presented by the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions. Headin West will run from September 11 through October 24 at 11:30 a.m., 1:45 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. in the Opera House Theatre.

Another fun activity of the National Harvest Festival will be the opportunity to participate in the “Missouri’s Largest Barn Dance.” It will be held on the giant dance floor inside the Red Gold Heritage Hall and feature live bands such as Horsecreek Band, Jody Nix & The Texas Cowboys, Missouri Travelers and others will be playing your favorite country & western and western swing tunes. In addition, “seasoned dancers will be on hand to give tips and instruction to beginners.”

And what would a Harvest Festival be without the tastes of fall. From “Great Northern Ham and Beans” to “Indian Tacos,” “Wrangler’s Buffalo Chili, “Goodnight’s Son of a Gun Beef Stew” and desserts such as blackberry cobbler and hot apple dumplings, there is something for just about every palette as the “Tastes of America,” are shared in the restaurants throughout the park.

The National Harvest Festival starts September 11 and will run through October 30, Wednesdays through Sundays, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., and on Saturdays, 9:30 a.m. – 6 p.m. For information, schedules and tickets, feel free to contact the Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services and sellers of Branson show and attraction tickets and lodging. BTC can be reached by calling 800-785-1550 or through its website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

Labor Day Weekend Fireworks in Branson

Fireworks from Chateau on the Lake burst over Table Rock Lake

Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center advises that in addition to all of Branson’s great shows, attractions, shopping, lakes and other exciting activities over the long Labor Day Weekend there will be two major firework displays. One will be at the beautiful Chateau on the Lake Resort and the other at Big Cedar Lodge.

In connection with its Labor Day festivities, including a Backyard Barbecue Buffet on its Garden Terrace with live music on September 5, the Chateau on the Lake will offer a spectacular fireworks display starting at dusk. The display can be easily and conveniently viewed for free from Table Rock Lake via boat, from the “park in loop” just south of the new overrun floodgates on Table Rock Dam or from the Chateau’s public areas.

The Showboat Branson Belle has an 8:00 p.m. dinner cruise. Although there certainly is no guarantees, the Showboat has been known to stop and watch the Chateaus firework displays. At the very least they will be observable from the Showboat’s decks. Johnson said there are still reservations available for the 8 p.m. cruise on September 5.

Big Cedar Lodge is planning an exciting Labor Day for September 5. An afternoon of “Crazy Fun” will be followed by a Barbeque and a spectacular fireworks display. Johnson points out that Big Cedar is located south of Branson off of State Highway 86.

Johnson stated that both firework displays will start at dusk and suggests bringing your own chairs and blanket. For additional information or tickets for any of Branson’s shows and attractions or for lodging arrangements please contact the Branson Tourism Center by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

CAM – volunteer servants to Branson’s hungry

A CAM food bundle for two people for three days.

Since its inception in 1984 by 11 participating churches and the community, the organization called “CAM,” an acronym for, “Christian Action Ministries,” has been helping to feed the hungry and needy people in Branson and Taney County. CAM’s primary goal “is to help people obtain the basic resources of food; to encourage self-sufficiency and independence and bring together the caring communities religious, business, and individual for meeting these needs.”

CAM accomplishes this goal by operating food pantries at two central locations where food is distributed directly to those families and individuals who need it. Its services are provided at minimal administrative cost by a two person permanent staff and dedicated volunteers working together to obtain the food and coordinate its distribution to hundreds of hungry and needy families and people each month.

CAM’s 2009 Annual Report shows that its volunteers donated 6,569 hours to CAM and that CAM provided food and resources for over 5,881 families and 14, 817 individuals, an increase of 34 percent over 2008 and over 50% from 2006. Recently Jack Burke, CAM’s Volunteer Chairman of the Board said that so far in 2010 all indications are that the number of families and individuals needing help will grow even higher.

Dave Hoy, CAM’s Volunteer Treasurer, said that the food that is distributed comes from three basic sources the Federal government (25%), private food donations (50%) and food purchased with private donations (25%). He said that, within the limits of the resources available, CAM tries to provide a nutritionally balanced diet in the food parcels they distribute.

The shelves of one of CAM's processing rooms where items are "picked" and pre bundled.

Hoy said it’s a simple process for people to get CAM’s assistance. All they have to do is come into one of the two CAM Food Pantries. Within 10 to 15 minutes they will have been processed and leave with enough food for each family member for three days. To make the process more efficient and to try to ensure that the elements of a nutritionally balanced diet are provided, CAM’s volunteers pre-bundle the food in bags containing enough food for one or two people for three days. As clients are processed the volunteers bring them the appropriate number of bags for the size of their family.

He pointed out that people can get Federal food for only three days a month. That means that any assistance beyond that has to come from private food donations or purchased food. This creates a huge need for private donations of food and cash. The need increases with CAM’s efforts to provide a nutritionally balanced diet. Many times the components necessary to do so must be purchased because they are not available through either Federal or donated food.

CAM Board Chairman Jack Burke points out that the “Branson CAM Gospel Sing-Off” is one of CAM’s major fundraising events of the year. It will be held at the magnificent Sight and Sound Theatre, the home of the spectacular productions of “NOAH the Musical” and the “Miracle of Christmas” at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, September 5. The 12 finalists, selected from over 50 entrants will compete for $3,000 in prizes, $1,500 for First Place, $1,000 for Second Place and $500 for third place before a large Branson audience and a panel of celebrity judges..

In sponsoring the prize purse for CAM’s Gospel Sing Off, Lianne Milton, co-owner of the Branson Tourism Center with her husband Larry, said, “As a member of the Branson community, we are honored and humbled to be able to help further the work of Christian Action Ministries as it provides needed food to thousands of people within our community. We are so appreciative of the efforts of CAM and its dedicated volunteers for all that they do.”

The CAM Food Pantry in Branson is currently located on the lower level of “Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church, 202 – B Vaughn and may be contacted by phone at 417-334-1157 or through their website www.christianactionministries.org. Although subject to change, the Branson Food Pantry is Open Monday through Friday from 12 to 4 p.m. with extended hours on Wednesdays from 5 to 7 p.m. The CAM Food Pantry in Forsyth is located at 10275 E. Highway 76 in the NEC Foundation building and may be contacted by phone at 417-251-0260. Its current hours of operation are from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday except for every fourth Tuesday when it is closed.

22nd Annual Branson Fiddle Festival adds “Orange Blossom Special Contest”

2009 Fiddle competition at the fountains in Branson Landing.

The song “banned” from the official competition at the “22nd Annual Fiddle Festival and Mid-American Fiddle Championship,” the “Orange Blossom Special” will be featured in its own “1st Annual Orange Blossom Special Fiddling Contest” in Historic Downtown Branson (HDB). Angela Walker, Events Coordinator for Historic Downtown Branson said that the event will be held as part of the expansion of the activities involved with the Festival starting at 6:00 p.m. on August 28 just prior to the square dance that will be held on Commercial Street in Historic Downtown Branson.

Walker points out that the all time favorite fiddle song is “banned” from official competitions. HDB thought the contest would provide some fiddle fun and entertainment as people with a song that fiddle players seem to love to play and audiences love to hear.

She said the contest will be judged by Keith O’ Neil, long time Branson Recording producer and co-host of the KLFC radio morning program with Charlie Ingram; Darrell Boen, Ricky Boen’s dad, and a multi awarded fiddle champion and Branson’s “Ole Seagull,” Gary Groman, a local columnist and entertainment writer. Contestants will be competing for a $100 Grand Prize and other prizes. Entries are limited and will be filled on a first come first served basis.

The “22nd Annual Fiddle Festival and Mid-American Fiddle Championship” will take place in Branson, Missouri August 27 through August 29. The Festivals events will be in one of two venues, the Fountains and Public Square of Branson Landing and in Historic Downtown Branson on Commercial Street between Main Street and Atlantic (HDB).

All the Festivals competition in the “Mid-American Fiddle Championship” will take place at the Branson Landing where the competitors will be competing for $5000 in cash prizes and a “bye” into the Fiddling Nationals. All the “Street Festival” activities, Orange Blossom Special Contest and the square dance will take place in Historic Downtown Branson. Trolley service will be available to transport guests to and from Branson Landing and Historic Downtown Branson (HDB).

FRIDAY 8/27

8:00 p.m. Kick off concert at Branson Landing with “BIG SMITH.”

SATURDAY 8/28

9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Street Festival in HDB
10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Mid-American Fiddle Championship Preliminaries at Branson Landing
6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. 1st Annual “Orange Blossom Special Contest,” HDB
7:00 pm. – 10 p.m. Square Dance Historic Downtown Branson

SUNDAY 8/29

9:00 a.m .- 4:00 p.m. Street Festival in HDB
10:00 a.m. Gospel Celebration at Branson Landing
12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Mid-American Fiddle Championship Finals at Branson Landing

The “Street Festival ” in Historic Downtown Branson will consist of a variety of events. These events will include entertainment, Horse and Pony Rides, Crafters, Demonstrations, Seminars, Food Vendors, a Farmer’s Market, Make-and-Take Crafts and a Children’s Area featuring inflatable “rides.”

For additional information on the 22nd Annual Fiddle Festival and Mid-American Fiddle Championship please visit www.downtownbranson.org. For information 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 Historic Downtown Branson.