Category Archives: Branson Events

Branson’s Gazebo Inn is a little bit of lodging magic

The unique Gazebo Inn located in the center of the famed Branson Strip.

When one turns off of the middle of the famed Branson Strip into the drive of the Gazebo Inn the first thing they see is its inviting, warm, quaint and distinctive exterior tucked back in a secluded area within feet of the strip. For those who have not seen the Gazebo Inn before it’s is a surprising sight and for all coming to the Inn it’s an indication of the wonderful lodging experience that they will have.

The General Manager of the 73 room Gazebo Inn, Joel R. Knoblauch said there’s a kind of special “magic” about the Gazebo Inn. He feels that magic comes from exceeding their guests expectations through a combination of things. These include very reasonable prices, location, its relatively small intimate size, secluded safe quiet environment, quality and cleanliness of its rooms, a large continental breakfast, the quality of staff and the services they provide to their guests.

Knoblauch said that the Gazebo Inn has a nice mixture of rooms. They range from their standard king and queen rooms to rooms with whirlpools, a Honeymoon suite with an in room Jacuzzi and a large two room family unit with its own parking space that is located near the pool. All the Inn’s rooms are non-smoking.

One of the spacious standard queen bed rooms.

Standard amenities include in room refrigerators, coffee machines, hair dryers, irons, ironing boards and free wireless internet. The Gazebo Inn has an outdoor pool and, while having no indoor pool, is located in close proximity to its “sister” property, the “Grand Plaza Hotel” which provides complimentary access to its indoor pool and those amenities not available at the Gazebo Inn.

The Gazebo Inn is ideally located on the Branson Strip. It is within walking distance of a number of Branson’s finest shows including The Andy Williams Show, Paul Revere and the Raiders with the Comets, Spirit of the Dance, The Twelve Irish Tenors, Broadway The Star Spangled Celebration, Spirit of Christmas and Shake, Rattle and Roll. The fabulous shopping available at the Tanger Mall and the Grand Village as well as great dining at restaurants such as Andy William’s Moon River Grill and the Hard Luck Dinner in the Grand Village are also within walking distance.

Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center said, “The Gazebo Inn provides our customers with a great lodging experience. ” For additional information or reservations for the Gazebo Inn or any of Branson’s other shows and attractions 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

Midwest Hunting and Fishing Expo in Branson

“From its shows and attractions to the Fall foliage and festivals such as Silver Dollar City’s National Harvest Festival there is so much to see and do in Branson in the Fall,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. “Branson will have a new Fall event this year,” she said. “The  ‘Midwest Hunting and Fishing Expo,’ will be at the Branson Convention Center on October 8-10.”

The “Midwest Hunting and Fishing Expo” (Expo) is owned and presented by “J & M Sports Shows, LLC” (J&M). Jim Thompson, owner of the Central Pro-Am Association and Mike Webb, of K.A.S.T (Kids are Special Too) are both principals in J& M. The Expo is sponsored by the Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services and Branson.com, Branson’s oldest continuously operated and most trafficked destination web site.

Thompson said that the Expo will consist of vendors exhibits, seminars by top hunting and fishing pros, great activities for kids and will just be a great time for those who love hunting and fishing. “We’re going to have a hundred plus vendors there such as Ranger Boats, Tracker/Nitro Marine, Phoenix Boats, Bass Pro Shops, Table Rock Lures, Ozark Knife Makers, Humminbird Marine Repair, the Wild Turkey Federation, Wild Idea Archery, Outlaw Rods , O’Reilly, Central Pro-Am Association, Missouri Water Patrol and the Missouri Department of Conservation to mention a few.

Noted hunter and outdoor TV personality Jerry Martin *

He was really excited about the level of expertise that will be putting on seminars saying, “There will be specific detailed seminars by top hunting and fishing professionals.” Although the final list of speakers is still being finalized Thompson did point out that in the area of fishing there will be seminars by professional bass fishermen Stacy King, Brian Snowden, Pete Winter, Mike Webb; fly fishing by one of the country’s top women fly fishers, Branson’s own Carolyn Parker and others. World renowned Ozark knife maker Tom McGinnis will be speaking as well as noted hunters Jerry Martin and Alan Treadwell.

Mike Webb said, “There will be plenty of activities for children too.” He said that among other things there will be face painting, balloon animals as well as a kid’s casting contest and other activities.

Thompson said there is a limited number of 10′ x 10′ exhibition booths available for the Expo. He also pointed out that the Expo will be open on Friday and Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Branson Tourism Center’s Tammy Johnson reminds those planning on attending the Expo of all that Branson has to offer in conjunction with the Expo. In addition to all of Branson’s  other shows and attractions there will be Silver Dollar City’s National Harvest Festival and limited engagement performances by Viki Lawrence, Ray Stevens and the Texas Tenors. “And speaking of the outdoors,” she said, “what could be more ‘outdoors’ than the spectacular foliage of the Ozarks in the Fall?”

She suggests that it would be a good idea to make advance reservations for lodging and shows and offers the free service of the Branson Tourism Center to help design your own custom made package of Branson shows, attractions and lodging in conjunction with attending the Midwest Hunting and Fishing Expo. The Branson Tourism Center may be reached by calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

*Photo courtesy of Bass Pro Shops

Entertainment, festivals, special events and foliage make Fall special in Branson

“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 genre of music and major area of entertainment from acrobats, cirque and Kung Fu to a showboat, outdoor drama, thundering horses, the circus and Branson’s two original trailblazing shows, The Baldknobbers Jamboree and Presleys’ Country Jubilee.”

“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. Links are provided for further information, schedules and ticket pricing:

Island Fire through August 28
Rock U Mentally through September 4
Ozark Murder Mysteries through October 31 (Sunday night only)
Andy Williams, September 2 through October 23 (Christmas Show starts November 1)
Gatlin Brothers, September 3 through September 5
Christian Action Ministries’ Gospel Sing Off, September 5 only
Leona William & Gene Watson, September 12 only
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
Oak Ridge Boys, September 21 through October 21
The Texas Tenors, September 28 through October 23
Vicki Lawrence/Mama, October 8 and 9 only
Don Williams, October 9 only.
Mid West Country Stars on October 20 and 21 only
The Front Men of Alabama, Lonestar, and Restless Heart on October 22 only
Michael Bolton on October 23 only.
Miracle of Christmas, starts for Christmas season on 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 and Festivals and major activities that will be taking place between now and the end of October such as:

Silver Dollar City’s Southern Gospel Picnic, August 26-September 6
Down Town Branson Fiddle Festival, August 27-29
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 Cookoff, October 2
Titanic’s 3rd Annual Woodcarving Event, October 8-10
Midwest Hunting and Fishing Expo, October 8-10
Titanic Princess Tea Parties, Part II, October 16-17

“Even Mother Nature adds to the entertainment,” said Johnson. “In addition to everything else Branson has to offer, the Fall foliage in the Ozarks is really spectacular.”

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.

Branson’s Table Rock Lake hosts special Fall events for Ironmen and Kids

Launching the Branson.Com boat into Table Rock Lake for the Purple Heart tournament held earlier this year.

“Branson is blessed with Table Rock Lake and its 43,000 acres of pristine water for fishing, boating, swimming and other activities. That, along with the natural beauty of the Ozarks Mountains and Branson’s great selection of shows, attractions, restaurants, shopping and other entertainment,  provide the synergy for a wonderful and unique travel experience,” said Levi Kurtright, Director of Marketing for the Branson Tourism Center. “Over the next few weeks and into the Fall, Table Rock Lake will be the home of a number of special events hosting everyone from Ironmen to kids and fishermen to families and kids.”

Kurtright points out that the “KSwiss Ironman 70.3 Branson Inaugural Race,” a triathlon, will be held in Branson, Missouri on September 19. The triathletes will be competing against each other in a test of endurance for a share of  $25,000 in prize money and to qualify for the “2010 Foster Grant Ironman World Championship 70.3″ in Clearwater, Florida. The course includes a 1.2 mile swim in Table Rock Lake, a 56 mile bike race through the rolling hills of the Ozark Mountains and a 26.2 mile run ending at the Branson Landing Fountains on the shores of Lake Taneycomo.

The “Central Pro-Am Association’s (CPAA) Pro-Am and Team Tournament Series” will end its 2010 season with a Pro-Am Tournament on August 21 and a Team Tournament on August 22 out of Ahoy’s in Kimberling City. Jim Thompson, the owner of CPAA points out that this tournament will determine the CPAA Pro and Amateur Champions of the year. “That’s a real big deal this year,” said Thompson. “In addition to the CPAA tournament winnings, the highest placed finisher in both the Pro and Non Boater (Amateur) Divisions, who are also members of the Professional Anglers Association, will win a paid ‘ride’ to fish the entire 2011 PAA Tournament Series including paid entry fees, food, fuel and lodging allowances for the entire season.”

The final event in the national “Professional Anglers Association’s (PAA) 2010 Tournament Season” will be held on Table Rock Lake October 14 through October 16. The tournament is jointly hosted by the Branson Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce and BransonOnTheWeb, an affiliate of the Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services. The PAA anglers will be competing for $400,000 in prizes, will depart the State Park Marina daily with the weigh-ins scheduled for the State Park Marina on October 14 and 15 and at “Branson Landing/Bass Pro Shops” on Oct. 16.

On October 23, KTTS Radio, Central Pro-Am Association and K.A.S.T. (Kids Are Special Too)  will join together at the Port of Kimberling Marina to help fight childhood cancer with a benefit for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The event will combine a Buddy Bass Tournament hosted by Central Pro-Am and KTTS and a family fun event hosted by K.A.S.T and KTTS.

The tournament will start at 7:00 a.m. with a weigh-in at 3:00 p.m. The entry fee per team is $170.00 with 70 % going for payouts and 30% to St. Jude’s. From 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. there will be fun and games for the kids with a kid’s fishing contest, casting contest, games, treats and lots of fun for families. CPAA’s Thompson encourages all fishermen to enter the tournament and invites all families with children to participate in the family fun event.

Kurtright reminds everyone that as these events are taking place on Table Rock Lake that Branson and all it has to offer is but minutes away. Couple that with the Fall of the year in the Ozark Mountains and Silver Dollar City’s National Harvest Festival and the opportunities for fun and excitement in Branson seem as numerous as the beautifully colored leaves that will be falling from the trees.

Because of the Fall Foliage, Silver Dollar City’s National Harvest Festival and all the other exciting events going on in Branson in October such as “The Front Men” featuring Alabama’s Randy Owen, Lonestar’s Richie McDonald and Restless Heart’s Larry Stewart together in one concert, he recommends that advance reservations be made for shows and lodging to ensure not only availability, but to obtain the best seating and accommodations available. Kurtright offers the service of Branson Tourism Center in that regard and points out that the Branson Tourism Center  can be reached by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

What do the Titanic, art and horses have in common?

The rustic beauty of Rachel Wilson's hedge horse sculptures is unique and captivating.

Towering 100 feet above the famed Branson Strip it’s hard to miss Branson’s Titanic Museum Attraction (Titanic) as she seems ready to sail onto the strip. Tammy Johnson, Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center points out that since July 1st it has also been hard not to notice what appears to be a herd of horses grazing and frolicking on a grassy knoll almost under the bow of the great ship.

Information received from the Titanic indicates that the “herd” is composed of extraordinary horse sculptures by Missouri artist Rachel Wilson and are all sculpted from hedge-wood sticks found on the farm she owns with her husband Kyle in Availla, Missouri. John Joslyn, owner of the Titanic said, “I think our July visitors, especially the kids, will be surprised and startled by the realism and motion that Rachel has captured in her imaginative, hedge-horse sculptures. Each ‘horse’ has a name and story to tell, from the large plow horse to the smallest of colts.”

In describing how she creates her sculptures Wilson indicates that it involves the whole family. “Hedges or Osage orange trees were planted in rows and used for fences by early-day farmers,” she explains. “We make gathering the fallen hedge branches a family affair. My husband drives the truck and our four kids and I ‘pickup sticks.’  Back in my studio, I wait for the pieces to ‘speak’ to me before I begin to give them the form and personality they dictate.”

As unlikely a scenerio as one could ever encounter, the Titanic and horses appearing to meet on a grassy knoll.

The result is amazing and gives those visiting the Titanic an interesting opportunity to see something that is truly unique and beautiful. It is not just the artistic rustic beauty of each of Wilson’s individual horses but the unique manner in which they are displayed, “running free” on the grassy knoll with the Titanic and the Branson Strip in the background. What a chance for one of the most unusual Kodak Moments of all time!

What do the “horses” have in common with the Titanic? They are both unique and demonstrate the originality and commitment of their creators as they give each Branson visitor an opportunity to make them a special part of their total Branson experience. Passengers on the Titanic will get to share the same experience that over 2.2 million Branson visitors have had as they take a self guided tour through the ship’s 20 galleries displaying more than 400 priceless artifacts, walk the full sized Grand Staircase and participate in many fun interactive activities.

Well perhaps not exactly the “same experience.” The exhibits are constantly being changed so that there is always something new for Titanic visitors to see and experience. In addition, they will not only get to see Wilson’s beautiful sculptures, but see them displayed in an exciting, natural and unique environment.

From an artistic perspective it should be pointed out that there were two sculptors on board for that fateful first and last voyage of the Titanic, “Paul Romaine Chevre and Francis Millet. Chevre, a French sculptor, was on his way to Ottawa, Canada, for the unveiling of one of his statues. Millet, an American painter, sculptor, poet and journalist, was returning home from vacationing in Europe.” One of them survived the disaster the other did not.

For additional information or tickets for Branson’s Titanic Museum Attraction or any of Branson’s other shows, attractions and activities or for lodging arrangements please contact the Branson Tourism Center (BTC) one of Branson’s largest and most trusted 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 skies will light up with 4th of July Fireworks

Fireworks light up the Branson skies.

NOTE: The following article was written for the 2010 4th of July fireworks displays.  For 2012 information, please click on the following for the latest information on 2012 4th of July fireworks displays.

Branson, Missouri, “the Live Music Show Capital of the World,” will light up the skies with fireworks in celebration of America’s Independence and the 4th of July. The General Manager for the Branson Tourism Center said that although most will be in and around the 4th of July, some of the celebrations will be as early as June 27.

Branson Tourism Center advises that those planning to attend the events allow plenty of time, arrive as early as possible and bring their own chairs unless they are assured of some other seating. Branson Tourism Center also reminds visitors that the Fourth of July weekend is one of the busiest of the year in Branson and suggests it might be advisable to book shows and lodging in advance to ensure not only availability, but the best choice of seats and accommodations.

The major Fourth of July celebrations and fireworks displays are listed below sorted by date. A contact phone number is provided for each and should be contacted for further information such as rain dates etc..

Name: Honor America
Place: College of the Ozarks by Lake Honor
Phone: College of the Ozarks – 417-690-2212
Date/Time(s)/Comment(s): June 27, Picnic 4:30 p.m., Entertainment 6:00 p.m., Patriotic Program & Concert 8:00 p.m. with entertainment provided by the cast of Red, Hot and Blue and the Peterson Family Band. The program and concert will be followed by Fireworks. Please bring your own chairs and come early.

Name: Branson Landing 3rd Annual Liberty Light Up
Place: Branson Landing Town Square by Fountains
Phone: Branson Landing – 417-239-3002
Date/Time(s) /Comment(s) July 3, Concert by “Chain Reaction, A Tribute to Journey” at 8:00 p.m. followed by Fireworks.

Name: Branson Landing Lake Queen or Landing Princess
Place: Branson Landing
Contact: Tickets and info through Branson Tourism Center 800-785-1550
Miller says, “An unique and exciting way to see the Branson Landing fireworks display is while cruising on either the Lake Queen or Landing Princess on Lake Taneycomo. On July 3rd these cruises will be positioned to provide not only a spectacular and unique view of the Branson Landing fireworks displays, but Branson Landings spectacular Fire and Light show.” Although there is still availability, Miller advises making reservations as early as possible in advance by calling the Branson Tourism Center at 800-785-1550.

The Chateau on the Lake Fireworks.

Name: Treasure Lake Resort
Place: Treasure Lake Resort behind the IMAX
Phone: Treasure Lake Resort 417-334-1040
Date/Time/Comment(s) July 3 at dusk. Advice is come early and bring a chair.

Name: Fireburst Fireworks Display
Place: Kimberling City
Phone: Kimberling City Table Rock Chamber of Commerce – 1-800-595-0393 or 417-739-2564
Date/Time/Comment(s): July 4 at dusk with food vendors and activities starting at 2:00 p.m. Fireworks will start at dusk. Good Viewing Area: Right on Route 13 in downtown Kimberling City, near Kimberling City Shopping Mall, about 6 miles south of Branson West. It can be viewed very well from Table Rock Lake near the north end of the bridge.

Name: BBQ and Fireworks at Chateau on the Lake
Place: Chateau on the Lake – North of Table Rock Dam on State Highway 165/265
Phone: Chateau on the Lake 417-334-1161
Date/Time/Comment(s): July 4 at dusk. Paid BBQ event, complete with live music will be followed by fireworks display which is easily and conveniently viewed for free from Table Rock Lake via boat or park in loop just south of new overrun floodgates on Table Rock Dam or the Chateau’s public areas.

Name: Showboat Branson Belle
Place: Showboat Branson Belle
Contact: Tickets and info through Branson Tourism Center 800-785-1550
Date /Time/Comment(s): July 4, 8:00 p.m. dinner cruise. Miller points out that there are no guarantees and you take your chances, but the 8:00 PM Dinner Cruise on the 4th of July has been known to anchor and watch the Chateau on the Lake’s Fireworks display as part of the cruise. This cruise is generally sold out so the further in advance reservations are made the better.

Name: Hollister’s 57th Fourth of July Fireworks Celebration
Place: Historic Downing Street in Hollister
Phone: City of Hollister- 417- 337- 8315 or Hollister Chamber of Commerce- 417-334-3050
Date/Time/Comment(s): July 4 at dusk. Good Viewing Area: Along Business Hwy 65 in Historic downtown Hollister.

Name: Rockaway Beach 4th of July Celebration and Fireworks Display
Place: Downtown Rockaway Beach
Contact: – Rockaway Beach Chamber of Commerce – 417-561-4280
Date/Time/Comment(s): July 4 at dusk. Family activities with events such as the “Little Miss & Mister Rockaway Beach Contest” start at 12:00 p.m. and Fireworks start at dusk.

Name: Big Cedar Fireworks Display
Place: Big Cedar Lodge
Location: Off State Highway 86 in Ridgedale, MO
Phone: Big Cedar – 417-335-2777
Date/Time/Comment(s): July 4 at dusk. Good Viewing Area: In front of Registration Building or from Table Rock Lake.

Name: Shell Knob Fire & Thunder Fireworks Display
Place: Shell Knob, MO, 1 mile S. of Bridge
Contact: Shell Knob Chamber of Commerce – 417-858-3300
Date/Time/Comment(s): July 4 at dusk.

Name: Shepherd of the Hills
Place: Shepherd of the Hills Outdoor Theatre
Phone: Tickets and info through Branson Tourism Center 800-785-1550
Date/Time/Comment(s):July 4th immediately after the presentation of the outdoor drama “Shepherd of the Hills.” It will be only for those who viewed the outdoor drama. Branson Tourism Center advises that tickets for Shepherd of the Hills are available through the Branson Tourism Center.

Its historic downtown is a unique part of the Branson experience

In the snow of winter or the heat of summer, Dick's 5 & 10 is just one example of the unique things Historic Downtown Branson has to offer.

“Many downtown areas are a shell of what they used to be,” says Paul Miller, General Manager of the Branson Tourism Center, “but historic downtown Branson is alive and vibrant. It has history, shows, restaurants, shopping and attractions and is truly the place ‘where it all started.’”

The Mabe family and their “Baldknobbers Jamboree,” Branson’s first show, is credited as being the “show that started it all.” They first performed in a small rented space in a civic building located behind the historic Owens Theatre in 1959 and now, 51 years later, the rest is history. The only buildings to survive the 1912 fire that virtually destroyed Branson’s downtown district within months after it became a city, the grave of the man it is named after and it’s oldest free standing commercial building are also located in historic downtown Branson.

Interestingly, Branson’s first show started its performances behind Branson’s first theatre, the “Owen Theatre,” built in 1936 by Jim Owen, a local float trip operator on the White River, to provide entertainment for the fishermen when they weren’t fishing. It was originally called the “Hillbilly Theatre” and, although originally a movie theatre, is considered Branson’s first “theatre,” movie or otherwise. Its distinctive architecture and beautiful interior stone walls make it one of the most unique buildings in Branson.

Miller goes on to point out that the term “Elvis is in the building” takes on new meaning in historic downtown Branson with two “Elvis” shows right across the street from one another. Dave Ehlert is currently performing “Elvis and the Superstars” in the “Hot Hits Theatre.” He has been performing the show in Branson for 16 seasons with one hour of his show devoted to “Elvis.”

The Kyle Hall family has completely remodeled and restored the historic Owens Theatre right across the street and it is the venue of Branson’s newest Elvis show, “Joseph Hall Presents Eras of the King.” Hall has placed in the top ten of the “Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest,” since its inception in 2007, had a top ten finish on “NBC’s America’s Got Talent” in 2008 and is officially recognized by “Elvis Presley Enterprises.” It is two hours of nonstop Elvis, one number after another covering all the eras of “Elvis’ career.

Historic downtown Branson has a variety of restaurants from Thai to good old fashioned Ozarks café cooking. “In fact,” Miller says, “Branson’s oldest cafes and restaurants are located in historic downtown Branson within a block of each other including the “Branson Café,” “Farm House,” “Clocker’s and “The Shack.” Also located within the historic downtown district is Thai Thai Cuisine,” “Bleu Olive Mediterranean Grille & Bar,” “Rocky’s Italian Restaurant” and Branson’s newest upscale restaurant, the “Level 2 Steakhouse,” located in the Hilton Branson Convention Center Hotel.

In terms of shopping, historic downtown Branson has too many opportunities to mention by name, but suffice it to say from the working art studio of noted outdoor and wildlife artist T. Morgan Crain to the unique merchandise of specialty shops such as “Branson Bills Emporium” and the beads of the “Plum Bazaar,” a shopping experience in Historic Downtown Branson is unique and special.

“Dick’s 5 & 10” is not only a one of a kind shopping experience harking back to the old time “5 & 10” stores, but is also one of Branson’s most popular attractions. It’s wide selection of varied merchandise has led some to say, “If you can’t find it at Dick’s you don’t need it.” Historic Downtown Branson also has a horse and carriage ride, a free “Discovery Trolley” that runs through the historic downtown area to Branson Landing and along the Lake Taneycomo Lakefront and the Branson Scenic Railway offering scenic excursions throughout the beautiful Ozark area surrounding Branson.

Keeping Branson’s history and heritage alive is an inherent part of doing business in Historic Downtown Branson. Among other things, Historic Downtown Branson sponsors a number of festivals and events throughout the year. The “37th Annual Plumb Nellie Arts & Crafts Festival,” featuring 200 crafters exhibiting their work, demonstrations, seminars entertainment and special sales by downtown merchants will be held in historic downtown Branson May 21st through the 23rd. Click here for a full schedule of the various events and festivals sponsored Historic Downtown Branson.

In terms of its history and heritage, historic downtown Branson is “The Heart of Branson.” In terms of having fun and sharing in a special unique experience, historic downtown Branson has it all and has it all within walking distance of each other.

For further information on historic downtown Branson or its events please call Historic Downtown Branson at 417-334-1358 or visit their website www.downtownbranson.org. For Branson lodging, show or attraction information or reservations please call 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.

Blue Grass, BBQ and Plumb Nellie Days means it must be May in Branson

Rhonda Vincent is one of the Bluegrass stars that will be playing at Silver Dollar City's "Bluegrass and BBQ Festival."

“One of Branson’s constants is that there is always something new and exciting to do,” says Tammy Johnson, Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. “Whether it is one of the many Branson shows or attractions making a change, the change of the seasons, limited engagement performances, a new festival being celebrated at Silver Dollar City, other activities, shopping or dining there is always something fresh to experience in Branson as indicted by what will be happening in the next few weeks.”

One of the biggest events, as Silver Dollar City continues to celebrate its 50th year will be, Silver Dollar City’s “Bluegrass and BBQ Festival” which will run from May 13 through the 31st. In addition to all the craftsmen, rides and entertainment that Silver Dollar City is famous for, the festival will include Blue Grass music presented by national stars such as The Grascals, Rhonda Vincent and others, all styles of BBQ, and two exclusive special events, the Annual Single Mic Championship and KSMU Youth in Bluegrass Band Contest.

Johnson said that there is additional fun and excitement for the Silver Dollar City guests this year, a new ride that just opened up called “Tom & Huck’s River Blast.” It is a new $7 million raft ride with a twist. Brad Thomas, the General Manager of Silver Dollar City said, “The twist is that there are water guns on the rafts and on the shore. Riders can shoot their water guns at folks on the shore, folks on shore can shoot their water guns at people on the boats and when you come face to face with another boat you can blast the people on that boat as well. It’s basically this big organized, well maybe not so organized, water fight.”

Among other events, there will be the “9th Annual Branson Motorcycle Rally” that takes place May 20 through 23. It will feature “rides, ” poker runs, a sanctioned boxing match exciting live entertainment, vendors, food and the “Rally Ally Tavern” beer tent.

Historic downtown Branson will be celebrating the 50th year of its “Plumb Nellie Days Arts and Crafts Festival in historic downtown Branson May 21through 23. It will feature over 200 American crafters, entertainment, seminars and other activities

Bill Medley and daughter McKenna.

Johnson points out that the “Official Branson.Com Show Schedule,” powered by the Branson Tourism Center, indicates that Branson’s 2010 live show season, like the beautiful Ozark Mountain scenery, is in full bloom. Most of its shows are open with “The Righteous Brothers Bill Medley” with his daughter McKenna Medley opening on May 18, “Island Fire,” Branson’s unique Polynesian show, opens May 28 and Branson newest show, “Legends of Kung-Fu-Chung Yi” opens June 2. Limited engagement performances by “The Gatlin Brothers,” “The Oak Ridge Boys,” “The Texas Tenors,” “Ray Price,” and “Roy Clark” just add to the excitement and variety of Branson’s live music show offerings.

For additional information or tickets for Silver Dollar City, any of the shows mentioned in this article or any of Branson’s other shows, attractions and activities 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.

50th Birthday Party highlights Silver Dollar City’s 50th Anniversary Celebration

Silver Dollar City celebrate 50 years of helping to "Create Memories Worth Repeating." (Photo courtesy of Silver Dollar City)

Silver Dollar City, Branson’s oldest and most popular paid attraction, is celebrating 50 years of helping people “Create Memories Worth Repeating” throughout its 2010 season. Paul Miller, General Manager of the Branson Tourism Center points out however, that the weekend of May 1 will be a major highlight of the celebration as Silver Dollar City holds its 50th Birthday Party with special events and extended hours.

Silver Dollar City and all its rides will remain open until 10:00 pm on Friday, April 30 and on Saturday May 1, 1960. Miller says, “And that’s just the beginning; there is a whole weekend of special events planned in addition to World-Fest, the nation’s largest international festival and all the rides, entertainment and craftsmen for which Silver Dollar City is famous.

There will be two special concerts by the “Ozark Mountain Daredevils” on Friday, April 30. The concerts will be held in the Echo Hollow Amphitheatre at 3:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. and will require the purchase of a separate $5.00 event ticket. At 9:00 p.m. on both days, there will be a “Street Dance” on Main Street that will be lead by Silver Dollar City’s street characters as everyone dances “the night away with such family classics as the Macarena, the Hokey Pokey, and the ever-popular Chicken Dance.”

The official premiere of the new “Great American Country Nights” show in Echo Hollow will be presented at 7 p.m. on Saturday, May 1st “with a special appearance by GAC show host Storme Warren, and a fireworks finale.” On Sunday, May 2nd the Birthday events will conclude with the 200 voice James River Assembly and Second Baptist Church choirs presenting a special “Night of Praise” at 6:00 p.m. in the Echo Hollow Amphitheatre.

Miller said, “May 1st is a very special day for Silver Dollar City and the entire Branson area because it will be 50 years from the day that Silver Dollar City first opened.” Special celebratory events marking that occasion will involve a special opening ceremony as the park opens at 9:00 a.m. on May 1st, just as it did 50 years ago and one of the biggest Birthday parties southwest Missouri has ever seen.

Silver Dollar City’s 50th Birthday Party will be held at 12:00 p.m. in the Echo Hollow Amphitheatre. Various dignitaries will be present and there will be special performances by the Baldknobbers, Haygoods, Lennon Sisters, and the Blues Brothers. Even the Birthday Cake will be special. It was baked from a recipe selected from recipes submitted by people from all over the country in a “Taste Of Home” contest specifically to select the “Official Birthday Cake.” The cake and winner will be revealed during the party and, of course, there will be birthday cake for everyone.

Miller points out that the May 1 weekend will be a very busy weekend in Branson, particularly for hotel and lodging. He suggests making reservations prior to traveling to Branson. For additional information on Silver Dollar City, the 50th Birthday events over the May 1st weekend, or for any of Branson’s other shows, attractions and activities or for hotels or lodging he suggests 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.

Fish Fry and “Hillbilly Motorcycle Run” added to Branson Purple Heart Event

The vocal group SIX, one of Branson's hottest shows, performing for the Purple Heart Recipients at the Hand in Hand Entertinment Show during the 2009 event.

The inaugural two day “Hand in Hand Branson Honors Purple Heart Recipients (Hand in Hand)” event held in 2009 was so successful that it is being expanded to a three day event this year. It will be held in Branson, Missouri April 22 through 24. Hand in Hand is an extension of Branson’s passion and commitment to America’s active duty military, Veterans and their families and is made possible through the efforts of many Branson volunteers, including the overwhelming support of its entertainers, and the sponsorship of Branson.Com.

Hand in Hand is a unique event in many respects. It is the only event specifically intended to remember and honor those who have received the Purple Heart for combat wounds received while serving in America’s Armed Forces and has received the active support of the Military Order of the Purple Heart (MOPH.) Hand in Hand is sponsored by Branson.Com, a sister company of the Branson Tourism Center and is co-owned by Larry and Lianne Milton. At a recent press conference regarding the event Larry said, “The city of Branson honors Veterans all year long. It is our treat and honor, even if only in a small way, to be able to honor the Purple Heart Recipients for the sacrifices they have made on behalf of our country.”

At that same press conference Marlyce Stockinger, Director of Advertising and Public Relations for Branson.Com, went over each of the activities that will be a part of Hand in Hand explaining that it would incorporate many of last year’s activities while adding exciting new activities designed to entertain and honor the Purple Heart Recipients and their families. Click here for a complete list of the events activities.

New this year, at the request of those attending last year, will be a Fish Fry on April 23. Jim Thompson, the owner the Central Pro-Am Bass Association is the coordinator for the fish fry. He said it would be held on the soccer field of the Branson Hills RecPlex under big tents starting at 5:30 p.m. It is open to everyone, not just Purple Heart Recipients and Thompson encourages everyone to attend and honor the Purple Heart Recipients. There will be no charge to Purple Heart Recipients, but there will be a minimal $10.00 charge to all others.

Simultaneously with the Fishing Tournament, which will be held at the State Park Marina on Table Rock Lake from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on April 23 there will be a special new event for the spouses. The Dress Barn VIP Shopping Extravaganza for women, with hors d’oeuvres, tea, coffee and a 15% discount on all purchases, will be held from 8:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

On the afternoon of April 24 the first “Hillbilly Posse Motorcycle Run” will be held in honor of the Purple Heart Recipients. Taney County Sheriff Jimmy Russell, himself a motorcycle enthusiast, is coordinating the “Hillbilly Posse” and said it would run from Ozark to the fountains at Branson Landing. He encourages maximum rider participation in the run and said it is open to all motorcycle riders, Veterans and nonveterans, who want to participate and honor the Purple Heart Recipients. Russell said it will be a wonderful event to witness and ride in.

The “Posse Motorcycle Run” will take place rain or shine and will start at the Wal-Mart Parking Lot in Ozark with registration at 2:00 p.m. The run will depart for Branson at 4:00 p.m. and will proceed to Branson via U.S. Highway 65 where it will exit onto State Highway 76 and proceed east straight down Main Street to Branson Landing. It will then converge on the Branson Landing Fountains via the Branson Landing Promenade with an anticipated arrival time of about 4:45 p.m.

Stockinger suggests that the public can help honor the Purple Heart Recipients by lining the U.S. Highway 65 overpasses at Bee Creek Road, State Highway 248, and State Highway 76 as well as the Posse’s route down Main Street to the Branson Landing Fountains. She encourages the public to attend Hand in Hand’s inspiring “Purple Majesty Twilight Ceremony,” honoring the Purple Heart Recipients, at the Branson Landing Fountains starting at 5:30 p.m. and as many other activities as they can. There is a complete schedule of activities, registration forms and other information on Hand in Hand available on line through Branson.Com or the Branson Tourism Center. Telephone assistance can be obtained by calling 1-800-785-1550.