A Branson Thanksgiving Day Feast of food, shows, fun and shopping

Silver Dollar City's Light Parade winds its way toward the Town Square and its five story high Special Effects Christmas Tree.

“What better way to celebrate Thanksgiving Day and the traditional beginning of the Christmas Season than in Branson, Missouri,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. “Branson has it all, great food, wonderful shows, fun filled attractions great shopping and the celebration of Ozark Mountain Christmas.”

“What’s Thanksgiving Day without a wonderful meal,” Johnson adds. “When it comes to food Branson has something for every taste and Thanksgiving Day is no exception.” Among many, Andy Williams Moon River Grill, Buckingham’s Prime Rib & Steakhouse, Chateau on the Lake, Dick Clark’s American Bandstand Grill, Dobyn’s Dining Room at College of the Ozarks, Fall Creek Steakhouse and the Paradise Grill & Steakhouse will be offering special Thanksgiving meals and buffets as well as the Branson Landing Cruises’ Landing Princess Yacht. (Click here for specific information and menus.) In addition, the dinner show attractions the Showboat Branson Belle and Dixie Stampede will also be serving and entertaining on Thanksgiving Day.

“And food’s not the only thing on the menu for Branson’s Thanksgiving either,” Johnson said. “From the wonders of Silver Dollar City’s Old Time Christmas to an exciting voyage aboard the Titanic, a time of Thanksgiving and history at the Veterans Memorial Museum or a visit to one of Branson’s other attractions there is a broad choice of exciting attractions. An article appearing in the Branson Courier entitled ” Most Branson attractions will be open on Thanksgiving Day” contains a complete list of the Branson attractions that will be open on Thanksgiving Day and over the weekend along with links to other information, pictures, schedules and pricing. Johnson also points out that Branson has two major drive through Christmas Lighting displays The Branson Area Festival of Lights and Shepherd of the Hills Trail of Lights.

“What else would one expect from the city that is called, ‘The live music show capital of the world,’ but an exciting selection of live shows? Even on Thanksgiving Day there are show choices from morning to night,” Johnson said. The following list of Branson shows open on Thanksgiving Day is sorted by time. Click here for complete information on any of the shows listed, pictures, schedules or tickets.

10:00 am

A Tribute to John Denver
Barbara Fairchild
Down Home Country
Hughes Brothers

1:00 pm

A Neil Diamond Tribute

2:00 pm

Bill Chrastil, The Many Performances of
Comedy Jamboree
Legends of Kung Fu, Chun Yi
The Cat’s Pajamas

3:00 pm

Acrobats of China
Legends in Concert
Shake Rattle & Roll

4:00 pm

Showboat Branson Belle
5:00 pm
Circle B Supper Show
Comedy Hypnosis Dinner Show

5:30 pm

Christmas on the Trail

7:00 pm

50’s at the Hop
Andy Williams
Motown Downtown
Top 10 Rock and Roll Revue

7:30 pm

Legends of Kung Fu, Chun Yi Pierce Arrow
Shoji Tabuchi

8:00 pm

Clay Cooper’s Country Music ExpressDixie Stampede
Duttons
Grand Jubilee
Hamner Barber Variety Show
Haygoods
Jim Stafford
Kirby VanBurch
Legends in Concert
Magnificent Variety
Rankin Brothers
Righteous Brothers’ Bill Medley
Smoke on the Mountain
Spirit of Christmas
Tony Orlando & The Lennon Sisters Christmas Celebration

Branson is always a great place to shop, but during Ozark Mountain Christmas and Thanksgiving Branson’s shopping is special. From handmade gifts by the craftsmen at Silver Dollar City to the amazing assortment of unique and specialty stores in historic downtown Branson at places like Dick’s Old Time 5 & 10, Branson Bill’s Emporium, Rosa’s Lost treasure Chest, the art work of outdoor artist Tom Crain and literally hundreds of other shops and three major shopping malls, Branson provides a shopping experience that is not only fun, but will enable you to find something for everyone on your Christmas gift list.

Branson’s three major shopping malls, Factory Merchants, Tanger Outlets and Branson Landing will have special schedules for Thanksgiving Day and the Friday after Thanksgiving. It should be noted that although Tanger Mall will be closed Thanksgiving Day it will open at Midnight, 12:00 a.m. on Friday Nov. 26. Their schedules are as follows:

Factory Merchants , 1000 Pat Nash Drive

Regular Hours , Monday-Saturday: 9:00 am – 9:00 pm
Sunday: 10:00 am – 7:00 pm,
Thanksgiving Eve, Wednesday: Nov 24, 9:00 am – 7:00 pm
Thanksgiving Day, Thursday: Nov 25, Noon – 6:00 pm
After-Thanksgiving Day Sale, Friday: Nov 26, 7:00am – 10:00 pm
Saturday: Nov 27, 8:00 am – 10:00 pm
Sunday: Nov 28, 9:00 am – 7:00 pm

Tanger Outlets, 300 Tanger Blvd.

Regular Hours, Monday – Saturday: 9:00 am – 9:00 pm
Sunday: 10:00 am – 7:00 pm
Thanksgiving Eve, Wednesday: Nov 24, 9:00 am – 6:00 pm
Thanksgiving Day, Thursday: Nov 25, Closed
Day After Thanksgiving, Friday: Nov 26, Midnight – 9:00 pm
Thanksgiving Weekend, Saturday: Nov 27, 7:00 am – 9:00 pm
Thanksgiving Weekend, Sunday: Nov 28, 9:00 am – 7:00 pm

Branson Landing, 100 Branson Landing Blvd.

Regular Hours: Monday – Saturday: 10:00 am – 9:00 pm
Sunday: 11:00 am – 7:00 pm
Thanksgiving Day, Thursday: Nov 26, 11:00 am – 5:00 pm Select Stores Open
Day After Thanksgiving, Friday: Nov 27, 8:00 am – 9:00 pm

Branson Tourism Center’s Johnson reminds those planning on staying in Branson or seeing a show on Thanksgiving or over the weekend to make advance reservations as it is one of the busiest weekends of the year in Branson. For additional information on any of Branson’s shows and attractions or for lodging arrangements please contact the Branson Tourism Center (BTC), one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services. BTC can be reached by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

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.

“A Dickens’ Christmas Carol” is a special Christmas experience

The snow filled finale of a Dickens' Chirstmas Carol.

“What a wonderful fantastic show,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center right after seeing “A Dickens’ Christmas Carol” recently at Silver Dollar City’s “An Old Time Christmas.” “It is yet another example of the quality and variety of Branson’s live shows,” she continued.

In a town like Branson, known for its live shows, one does not normally think of shows when thinking about its number one and longest running paid attraction, Silver Dollar City. However, here’s a little secret, Silver Dollar City puts on some of the best produced, entertaining and most unique shows in Branson including, but not limited to its productions of “Fiery Fiddles” during Worldfest, “Headin’ West” during the National Harvest Festival and, of course, “A Dickens’ Christmas Carol” as part of its Old Time Christmas.

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

“A Dickens’ Christmas Carol” is playing at the Opera House Theatre in Silver Dollar City and is included as part of your Silver Dollar City experience. The schedule of its performances, subject to change, as of November 7 is:

November 6, 13, 20, 26, 27 at 12:45, 2:15, 3:45, 5:45, 7:15 & 8:45
November 11, 12, 18, 19, 24, 28 at 1:45, 3:15, 4:45, 6:15 & 7:45
November 7, 14, 21 at 1:45, 3:15, 4:45 & 6:15
November 25 at 4:45, 6:15 & 7:45
December 2, 3, 9, 10, 16, 17, 19, 22, 23, 26 – 30 at 1:45, 3:15, 4:45, 6:15 & 7:45
December 4, 11 & 18 at 12:45, 2:15, 3:45, 5:45, 7:15 & 8:45
December 5, 12 at 1:45, 3:15, 4:45 & 6:15

Branson Tourism Center’s Johnson suggests, because of the show’s popularity and everything else there is to do at Silver Dollar City, those planning to see the show should plan their Silver Dollar City stay accordingly and leave enough time to see this wonderful and unique show. She also points out that those buying their Silver Dollar City tickets through Branson Tourism Center (BTC), one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services, get two full days at Silver Dollar City for the price of one.

For additional information or tickets for Silver Dollar City or any of Branson’s other shows and attractions or for lodging arrangements please contact BTC by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

Branson Entertainers participate in 12th Annual Nativity Celebration

Duttons performing the finale in their Branson show.

“A number of Branson entertainers will be featured in the 12th Annual Nativity Celebration to be held in Springfield, Missouri the first two weekends in December,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. “According to information received from the events sponsors, the Branson entertainers, scheduled to perform, along with school and community ensembles, are SIX, Duttons, Hughes Brothers, Brett Family, Wayne Galley, Thomas Brothers (performing with the Osmonds), Wornock Singers and George Dyer,” she continued. Click here for a schedule of individual performances.

The 12th Annual Nativity Celebration is being hosted by the LDS Church, 4450 S. Farm Rd 141 (Cox Road) in Springfield, MO from 5 to 9 p.m. on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, December 3, 4 and 5 and December 10,11 and 12,”. It will feature “live Nativity actors portraying a life like Nativity Scene complete with a rustic manger, stable, and live animals” with performances reenacted every 20 minutes during the scheduled hours of operation. Learn about Nativity traditions from all over the world through the all New International Nativity Display consisting of a “hundred beautiful handcrafted nativity sets showing how people from countries all over the world celebrate the Nativity.”

Refreshments will be served. For additional information and detailed performance schedules visit www.nativitycelebration.com or email [email protected].

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.

Silver Dollar City’s aglow for An Old Time Christmas

The City Square with its five story Christmas Tree and the "Holiday of Lights Parade" passing through.

“How exceptional is Silver Dollar City’s ‘An Old Time Christmas?’ In 2009 it won second place in the prestigious Golden Ticket Awards in the “Christmas Event” category, placing higher than either Disney’s ‘Magic Kingdom’ or ‘Disney World,'” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. She points out that it has also been recognized as one of the nation’s top Christmas celebrations and is one of the major center pieces of Branson’s celebration of Ozark Mountain Christmas. Running from November 6 through December 30, An Old Time Christmas will conclude Silver Dollar City’s season long celebration of its 50th anniversary in spectacular fashion sharing the spirit of the old time traditional Christmas with its guests.

“What a year!” said Peter Herschend, co-founder of Silver Dollar City. “We’ve laughed and cried and shared memories with thousands of people whose families have been coming to see us for 50 years. Now, with one last hurrah of the celebration, we present the brightest festival of all – and the one most steeped in family traditions,” Herschend continued.

Johnson says that An Old Time Christmas transforms the 1880s-style theme park into a glowing Christmas extravaganza with over four million sparkling lights throughout the park. The focal point of the celebration is in Silver Dollar City’s square, which is the setting for “Christmas on Main Street,” Silver Dollar City’s biggest light show ever!”

The park’s Christmas centerpiece, a 5-Story Special Effects Christmas Tree is located in the City’s Square. It comes to life each day at dusk playing Christmas music such as “Carol of the Bells, “Joy to the World,” “Suite from Polar Express” and more as its many colored Christmas lights twinkle and dance in unison with the one million plus lights of the surrounding City square area.

The “Gifts of Christmas Holiday Light Parade,” with over 100,000 lights, passes through the park twice each evening if the weather permits. Although it is a spectacular sight anywhere in the park as it passes by the Christmas Tree and its lights are combined with the lights of the tree and surrounding square it is truly a breathtaking sight.

The Christmas lights and Light Parade are just part of the joy and fun that is An Old Time Christmas. There is a variety of shows including, the Broadway style production of an original musical adaptation of “A Dickens’ Christmas Carol,” produced by Silver Dollar City; “The Living Nativity” and” Frosty.” Weather permitting and in temperatures down to 42 degrees F there are rides where you can “soar into the night” for a unique and inspiring view of the lights far below.

In addition there’s Santa Claus at Kringles Krossing, the creation of one-of-a-kind handmade gifts showcased by Silver Dollar City‘s 100 demonstrating craftsmen, and festive holiday foods offering the tastes of the season “throughout the park, including a prime rib buffet and traditional favorites such as turkey with all the fixings.” Branson Tourism Center’s Johnson said, “Factor all that in with the award winning friendliness of Silver Dollar City’s staff and spirit of the traditional Christmas that seems to permeate throughout Silver Dollar City during the event and the result is the type of inspirational special Christmas memory that could last a lifetime.”

She points out that An Old Time Christmas runs Thursdays through Sundays through December 19, plus Wednesday, November 24 and December 22-23. It is closed Christmas Eve and Christmas day and open daily December 26-30. Hours are 1:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. most days. For additional information or tickets for An Old time Christmas 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 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.

Stone Castle Hotel and Conference Center for value luxury Branson lodging

The Stone Castle Hotel and Conference Center

“The Official Branson Hotels and Lodging List‘ on Branson.com has a wide variety of Branson hotels and lodging facilities from which Branson visitors to pick,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. “From Four Star Diamond rated luxury resorts to lake shore cabins and a variety of clean, comfortable and conveniently located hotels and other lodging choices, Branson has lodging for just about every budget and need.”

In referring to one of those choices, the Stone Castle Hotel and Conference Center, Johnson said, “Although certainly not a secret to the members of the many groups and guests it has hosted over the years, one of the best kept lodging secrets in Branson might be the Stone Castle Hotel and Conference Center (Stone Castle).” She points out that it was formerly known as the “Settle Inn,” provides a value priced luxury experience and is known for its hospitality and customer service.

In a recent interview, David Hartman the General Manager of Stone Castle said that in 2008 they completed an extensive multi-year renovation project that took everything down to the concrete floors. He said it was a complete room renovation including the replacing all the carpet, furniture, lighting and drapes down to the bed spreads, pillows and every bed in the hotel.

One the spacious standard double bed queen rooms.

Hartman said that the Stone Castle has 300 rooms separated into two general types, Standard and Suites. Their very generous sized Standard Room has two queen sized beds and comes with, among other amenities, an iron, ironing board, hair dryer, coffee maker, cable TV, free Wi-Fi and a full hot breakfast.

In addition, they offer four different suits “Themed,” “Family,” “Executive” and “Presidential” Hartman points out that one of the big things separating the Stone Castle Hotel from other properties in Branson is its 35 themed suites. Each is decorated according to a different theme such as the “Medieval,” “Gone With the Wind,” “Aloha” and “Jungle” etc. providing guests with a unique lodging experience.

There are two “Presidential Suites” the “Oval Office” and the “Cabinet.” Hartman said that they are our largest guest rooms with a two person whirlpool, four poster King bed with stair step, wet bar, mini-fridge, a breakfast nook and dark cherry furniture. Part of the suite sits in the “tower” of the building providing a living area. Hartman describes them as the “Best rooms in the house.”

He said the “Family Suites” are two room suites with one common entrance. From the interior of each suite the rooms are separated by a door that can be shut. They have two queen sized beds in one room and a king in the other. Each room has its own bathroom, heating and air conditioning, and TV. In addition to the other amenities that are common to each room at the hotel each Family Suit also has a micro wave and refrigerator.

One of the two indoor pools.

Hartman said that two of the features of the property that the guests appreciate is the safety of interior corridors for access to all the rooms and suites and the elevator system that eliminates the need to use stairs. He also points out that Stone Castle has two indoor pools, each with a hot tub; a game/arcade room that includes air hockey and conveniently located coin operated guest laundry facilities.

He said that although pets are allowed in certain designated rooms they are not allowed in any of the suites. As of this time there is no size limit and there is an additional charge for pets.

One of the most popular features at the Stone Castle is the expansion of the free breakfast in May of 2009. Hartman believes that it is one of the best free lodging breakfasts available in Branson saying, “It is a complete hot breakfast, not a continental breakfast, and it is all you can eat.”

Hartman pointed out another feature of the Stone Castle, its location. He said, “We are basically in the heart of Branson, in the center of it all. We’re away from the hustle and bustle of the strip, but we still have easy access to it and can get around town from our property pretty much without having to get into heavy traffic.” He pointed out that Green Mountain Drive parallels Highway 76 and provides convenient access to a number of Branson’s theatres and attractions and quick access to State Highways 165, 265, and 376 with subsequent access to Table Rock Lake or Silver Dollar City.

The main meeting room set up for a banquet.

He also emphasized the words “Conference Center,” as in the name of the Stone Castle Hotel and Conference Center, pointing out that Stone Castle has a total of seven meeting rooms and 10,000 total square feet of space. Their largest meeting room has a capacity of 4500 square feet. Hartman said that they can configure the meeting room space to meet just about any need and said that they have hosted a variety of events ranging from banquets and meetings to conventions, exhibits, parties and other events. He is proud to point out that a large part of their meeting group business is repeat business and attributes a large part of it to their great customer service.

Annette Wood is the Director of Group Sales for the Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation and travel planning services for both groups and individuals. She agreed with Hartman saying, “We routinely use the Stone Castle Hotel and Conference Center for groups, special events, and conferences and are continuously impressed by the quality of the facilities, their reasonable rates, their excellent hospitality and willingness to go above and beyond in the area of customer service.”

For additional information on the Stone Castle Hotel and Conference Center 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.

Multifaceted Branson entertainer, John Presley in exclusive interview

Recently, John Presley, a third generation member of Presleys’ Country Jubilee, the first show to locate on the now famed Branson Strip, participated in a “Branson Up-Close and Personal” interview. These interviews are a service of the Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services and provide readers with an up-close and personal look at a Branson star or personality.

Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center said, “The ‘Branson Up-Close and Personal’ interviews are just a small part of our overall effort to help those interested in Branson to get the information they need to not only plan their trip to Branson, but have a great experience while in Branson.” Johnson also points out that Presleys’ Country Jubilee has been operating at its current location on the Branson Strip since 1967 and is one of Branson’s most popular and successful shows.

Interview excerpts:

BTC: How long have you been Performing with Presleys’ Country Jubilee
JP: 18 years, I started when I was 10 years old.

BTC: How many generations of Presleys’ actually perform in the show?
JP: Right now there are three generations actually performing in the show. My grandpa performed on stage up until last year, but has retired.

BTC: Any of the original cast still performing?
JP: Yes, my dad Steve Presley the shows drummer and my uncle Gary Presley who plays the character of “Herkimer” in the show.

BTC: What is your first memory of Branson?
JP: Being born here I have a lot of memories but one of the things that comes to mind is going fishing with my grandpa on Table Rock Lake.

BTC: What do you like best about performing in Branson?
JP: Being able to relate to and interact with the audience in a personal way. We don’t just perform and walk away, we get to meet them personally and that means a lot.

BTC: Where is your favorite place to eat in Branson and your favorite dish at that place?
JP: I love Chester’s. My favorite dish is the Chicken Pesto Salad Sandwich.

BTC: If you could perform or meet with any entertainer/person (living or deceased) who would it be and why?
JP: Floyd Cramer because I grew up with learning his style piano and play some of his songs in the show. His song “Last Date” is the number one song people like to hear me play.

Click here for the entire interview.