Branson Holiday Promenade of the Stars Features Andy Williams

The 3rd Annual Branson Holiday Promenade of Stars Parade will usher in the Christmas season on world famous Hwy 76 at 10:30am on November 7 in Branson. Mr. Christmas, otherwise known as Andy Williams, is set to be the grand marshal of the parade.

The 1.4 mile-long parade route begins at White Water and ends at the Grand Village shoppes, with a few stops along the way to allow stars to perform on stage in front of the Titanic Museum. Branson celebrities, marching bands and floats will all be included in the Branson Holiday Promenade of Stars Parade.

In addition to Andy Williams, other celebrity performances include Cathy Rigby as Peter Pan, the Lennon Sisters, the Osmonds, Tony Orlando, Broadway’s Spirit of Christmas dancers, the cast of "A Dickens’ Christmas Carol” from Silver Dollar City and a special appearance by Santa and Mrs. Claus.

The parade is being recorded for a television special that will broadcast Thanksgiving Day and rebroadcast Christmas Day. The special will air on KSFX Ozarks Fox and The Vacation Channel in the Springfield/Branson area. National Broadcasts will air on RFD TV and Retro Television Network (RTN). Hosts for the television special are Debby Boone and Jimmy Osmond.

Celebrate the Holidays in Branson, Missouri

Celebrate an Ozark Mountain Christmas this holiday season in Branson, Missouri. The cool weather brings festive productions to the area Branson Shows as they invite guests to celebrate the reason for the season with friends and family. The area becomes enchanted with twinkling light displays, holiday decorations and a merry spirit that is perfect for a holiday getaway.

One of the best reasons to travel to Branson during the holiday season is the entertaining holiday shows available during November and December. Branson has a variety of programs to choose from, each with a unique story to tell. Miracle of Christmas is an all-new show in Branson, and seeks to tell the captivating story of Mary, Joseph and the birth of Jesus. It is presented by Sight and Sound Theatres, who are known for their lavish production qualities from Noah – The Musical. Several star entertainers return to Branson during the Christmas season, including Andy Williams in the Andy Williams Christmas Show, Daniel O’Donnell and Tony Orlando & the Lennon Sisters.

Branson visitors can enjoy a country Christmas at Christmas on the Trail, where you’ll sing along as they share a cowboy Christmas, complete with Christmas carols, and a special time of reflection on the true meaning of the Christmas Season. Dixie Stampede Christmas Dinner and Show transforms into a holiday celebration including a live nativity, with three kings atop camels, holiday music, Santa and a four-course yuletide feast. This year they also debut “The Magic of Toys,” an all-new musical celebration. Baldknobbers Jamboree Christmas presents a combination show during the holiday season, during which the first half is devoted to the best of this year’s country show and the second half features a Baldknobber Family Christmas.

Broadway’s Spirit of Christmas is a top rated holiday production in Branson, and for good reason. This enchanting show highlights the excitement and joy of the season as its talented cast sings, dances and interacts with the audience. Hamner Barber’s Wings of Christmas Show is also a combination show, featuring the best of their comedy and magic in the first half and moving holiday tribute in the second half of the show. For those that have an ear for the piano, you won’t want to miss Dino’s Christmas Extravaganza, an over-the-top production highlighting Christmastime all over the world. The show is truly magical and the elaborate sets, costumes and holiday numbers create a memorable evening for all.

Ride the Ducks also join in on the festive fun with their Ride the Ducks Holiday Light Tours. This 60 minute adventure, on an enclosed duck, takes guests on a tour of Branson’s holiday lights. It’s a great way for everyone to see the beauty of Branson. The Shepherd of the Hills Trail of Lights is a holiday tradition as it offers 160 acres of Christmas lights and animated displays. Children of all ages will be amazed by the dazzling displays of holiday cheer.

A holiday getaway to Branson wouldn’t be complete without a day spent at Silver Dollar City during their Old Time Christmas celebration. The entire park is aglow with light displays and winter wonderland activities, as well as fabulous productions like “A Dickens Christmas Carol” and “The Living Nativity.” It’s the perfect way to put everybody in the family in a merry mood.

Andy Williams Returns to Branson with All Star Variety Show

Beginning September 1st, Andy Williams will return to the Moon River Theatre for the Andy Williams All Star Variety Show in Branson, MO. This one-month engagement will feature a number of acts, including the husband and wife dance team of Pasha & Aliona, the dancing and singing talents of The Warnock Family, comedian Joe Trammel and the tap dancing duo of The Williams Brothers. The show will run through September 30 with performances Monday through Saturday with performances at 2pm & 7pm. Andy Williams All Star Variety Show tickets are available now.

The Moon River Theatre is also home to The Righteous Brothers’ Bill Medley and Paul Revere and The Raiders, as well as Bill Haley’s Original Comets. The Comets will be on a brief break during the month of September, so the Andy Williams All Star Variety Show and The Righteous Brothers’ Bill Medley and Paul Revere and the Raiders will alternate performances, with Williams offering matinees on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, and evening performances on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Medley & Revere will do evenings on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays and matinees on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

Andy Williams will return to The Moon River Theatre November 2nd for the Andy Williams Christmas Show extravanganza.

Branson Ranked as Top Place to Visit

Add another accolade to the list of many for Branson.

In its second annual report, San Diego-based Eventful Inc., a leading online source for local events across the country, has recognized the “entertainment capital of the world” as a top place to visit in the United States.

Branson took second place in the music category, beating out Los Angeles and Chicago. New York was ranked No. 1.

“It is quite an honor to be recognized,” said Lynn Berry, director of public relations for the Branson Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce. “For us to be ranked by Eventful shows that we have put our very best effort forward to make Branson a popular destination.”

Eventful analyzes U.S. cities with populations exceeding 100,000, as well as cities with smaller populations.

Berry said travelers do a lot of research before choosing a destination and rankings available on the Internet make it easier to make decisions.

“Everyone likes to check out a top 10 list before they go to a destination. It gives them an idea of what to expect,” she said.

Branson’s No. 2 ranking by Eventful was great news for Marketing Director Dave Ledford at Andy Williams Moon River Theatre.

“Anytime Branson can be recognized, it’s great for our community,” he said. “People are always looking for a place that offers great entertainment and lodging and Branson is just the place for it.”

Hollye Gurley, general manager of the Baldknobbers Theatre, said that more than ever, Branson is making a name for itself.

“Branson does some pretty impressive events like Veterans Homecoming and Festival of Lights. With our 50th anniversary coming up, we are proud to be a part of the exciting things that go on here,” she said.

Eventful has many categories, including most eventful cities, small but eventful cities, top cities for music lovers and even top cities for pet lovers.

According to Eventful, its community of users enjoy the world’s largest selection of local events taking place in markets across the globe, from concerts and sports to singles events and political rallies.

Eventful provides multi-platform services to its users via eventful.com, e-mail programs, mobile applications and content distributed through widgets and apps.

Information courtesy of Branson Daily News

Christmas Cheer Fills the Air at Branson Shows

What do Branson and the North Pole have in common? They both fill people with the Christmas spirit.

The North Pole does it with Santa Claus, elves and reindeer. Branson does it with the almost endless variety of holiday entertainment.

With 53 theaters and 59,757 seats, there is more than enough Christmas music, comedy and lights to even fill the Grinch with holiday cheer.

Here are a few of the area Branson Christmas shows:

•The Hughes Brothers — Head to the Hughes Brothers Theatre in Branson and enjoy the Christmas season with the Hughes Brothers.

These young, energetic and multi-talented brothers celebrate Christmas and the New Year as only they can do. Join Marty, Jason, Ryan and Andy as they combine rich, tight harmonies with dynamic dance numbers and hilarious antics to create a show the whole family will love.

•SIX at the Hughes Brothers Theatre — Celebrate Christmas with SIX. You won’t believe what comes out of the mouths of this vocal band.

The group SIX is made up of six real brothers — Barry, Kevin, Lynn, Jak, Owen and Curtis Knudsen. The group members use their voices to produce all the instrumentation, rhythms and harmonics of the band and vocals.

•Shoji Tabuchi — The Shoji Tabuchi Christmas Show offers a wide variety of entertainment, from classic holiday favorites to contemporary hits. Join Shoji Tabuchi, his wife Dorothy, and their daughter, Christina.

The family plays, sings and dances for the audience. The show is highlighted by the talented violin playing of Shoji Tabuchi. Visitors are guaranteed to get into the holiday spirit.

•Andy Williams — It is definitely “The Most Wonderful Time of the Year” at the Andy Williams Christmas Show at the Andy Williams Moon River Theatre in Branson.

Williams performs some of the holiday hits that made him a music legend. He is also joined by a strong supporting cast. Dean Church is another of Branson’s finest entertainers. For years Church has brought audiences to their feet with his musical talent and energy.

Bob Anderson is a world class singer, comedian, impressionist and all around entertainer. During the show, he performs his tribute to “The Golden Age of Music.” He will take you on a musical journey with his impressions of “The Rat Pack,” Tony Bennett, Andy Williams, Tom Jones, Nat King Cole, Ray Charles, Neil Diamond, and Elvis Presley.

The husband and wife variety dance team of Pasha and Aliona will also entertain you with elegance, humor and unique acrobatic choreography.

These are just a few of the many holiday shows that are sure to have you overflowing with Christmas cheer.

Information courtesy of Branson Daily News

Christmas in Branson is a Winter Wonderland of Fun

It’s the most wonderful time of the year in Branson, Missouri.

Twenty years ago, the entertainment district in this resort town in the Ozarks shut down for the season. Then, one by one, the attractions realized what a draw the Christmas holiday would be and now hundreds of thousands of visitors brave the chilly weather to flock to Branson in November and December.

Singer Andy Williams truly represents the classic American Christmas show for most folks over the age of 40.

His Christmas show in 2008 keeps that spirit alive. Mixing in some familiar favorites like "Walking in a Winter Wonderland" and "It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year", Williams sings and dances with the energy of someone 20 years his junior.

The show has great music and laughter. Willims does a bit with Bob Anderson, a world class singer and impressionist. Anderson is dead on in impersonations of a drunken Dean Martin, Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Tom Jones, Nat King Cole and last but in no way least - Andy Williams.

Williams sings while Anderson mocks his mannerism behind his back on stage. The kicker is when Williams and Anderson - impersonating Williams - sing a duet.

Williams foregoes an intermission to get as much Christmas spirit into one show.

Williams does two shows - one at 3 p.m. and one at 7 p.m. - from Monday to Saturday every day from Nov. 1 to Dec. 13. The theater is closed on Nov. 26 - the day before Thanksgiving. There are no matinees on Nov. 24-27.

What a country!

Yakov Smirnoff loves America. And he loves Christmas.

His Christmas show in November and December packs them in even though the shows are in the afternoons and morning. The Russian jokester’s monologues and film clips chronicle a career of standup comedy and work on TV and film. In one clip he plays, he tells the late Johnny Carson on the Tonight Show that America has a lot of things you can’t find in the former Soviet Union.
Like warning shots.

Yakov has a nice blend of spontaneous comments and audience participation. In a mock presidential news conference, he takes questions from the audience while pretending to be the president. And as funny as the show is, Yakov tells a sentimental story of his first Christmas in America and how through the generosity of three perfect strangers, he found some new friends in the New World.

Yakov performs his Christmas shows at 9:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. on Nov. 18 and 20 and December 2-3 and 9-10. He does only the 9:30 a.m. show on November 15, 19, 22, 25-26 and 29 and Dec. 4, 6-7 and 11-12. On the following dates, he has only one 3 p.m. show - Nov. 16, 21, 23 and 30 and December 5.

An Irish Christmas

A dozen talented vocalists - some from Ireland and a few from America - put on an amazing vocal show during the Christmas season at Branson.

The Branson Variety Theatre hosts sold-out crowds for this group of singers and dancers.
Beside some familiar Christmas tunes, the 12 Irish Tenors sing old favorites, including "Danny Boy", "That’s Life", "You Raise Me Up", "Hey Jude", "Twist and Shout", "Yesterday", "Cockles and Mussels", “Nessun Dorma," "Music of the Night" and more.

Their rendition of Danny Boy alone is worth the price of admission.

The 12 Irish Tenors perform their Christmas show at 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. on November 16, 23 and 30 and Dec. 7. The show is at 10 a.m. only on Nov. 18 and 20 and Dec. 2, 4, 9 and 11. The shows are presented at 3 and 8 p.m. on Nov. 17 and Dec. 1, 5, 8, 12, 14 and 19-20. The show is at 3 p.m. only on Nov. 25 and 27 and Dec. 16-18. There is only one 8 p.m. show on Nov. 19, 26 and 28 and Dec. 3 and 10.

An Old Time Christmas

Much of the history of Branson revolves around Silver Dollar City and the rich Ozark Mountain heritage. That theme is in full swing this November and December with Silver Dollar City’s An Old Time Christmas.

The 1880s-style theme park has more than 4.5 million Christmas lights. The Square has more than a million lights alone. There are 350 miles of lights plus more than 1,000 decorated Christmas trees.

The 50-foot tall Christmas tree on the Square has 350,000 LED lights. The Christmas on Main Street show is incredibly synchronized - to one hundredth of a second. There are 100 light changes every second.

“With the addition of even more lights and effects, we’ve dramatically enhanced the atmosphere of the Square,” said Trudie Kelly, Silver Dollar City visual supervisor. “The LED lights also help to cut back on energy consumption throughout the park.”

For the adventurous, the park’s roller coasters are open at night for a spectacular view of the lights. Inside, the Broadway-style production of Dickens’ A Christmas Carol adds to the Christmas spirit. This is an original adaptation of the classic story.

Also, at Silver Dollar City, the employees can say, “Merry Christmas” instead of just “Happy Holidays.” Silver Dollar City is open Wednesdays through Sundays in November, Thursdays through Sundays through Dec. 14 and open daily December 18-23 and December 26-30. On most days, the hours are 1-9 p.m.

Festival of Lights

The Branson Area Festival of Lights started on Nov. 1 and stays until New Year’s Eve.
The drive through the display is on the Shepherd of the Hills Expressway Lane, across from the new Sight & Sound Theatre (home of Noah, the Musical).

The festival begins with a one-mile drive with more than 230 colorful light displays and almost one million lights. The festival is open daily from dusk to 11 p.m., Sunday through Thursday and from dusk to midnight on Friday and Saturday.

Branson Landing

We stayed at the Hilton Promenade on Branson Landing. That puts you right in the center of one of the most scenic parts of town and in the middle of a convenient shopping district.

It’s a great place to plan to watch the 60th Annual Adoration Parade and Lighting Ceremony at 5:30 p.m. Dec. 7.

The two-mile parade route goes right through history downtown Branson.

Titanic Display

A small wicker suitcase that once belonged to Millvina Dean - the only living survivor of the Titanic disaster - will be on display at the Titanic Museum in Branson until Dec. 31.

“This will be the world’s first look at an important piece of Titanic history, one that’s not been seen by the public for 96 years,” said John Joslyn, owner of the museum. “We feel privileged to be given this unique opportunity to honor Millvina Dean and her contributions to Titanic’s legacy and to showcase one of her most valued possessions - a small, memory-filled suitcase.”

Dean was a baby girl when the unsinkable Titanic sank 96 years ago. Her mother and young brother survived while her father perished. Arriving in New York with nothing but the clothes on their backs, a stranger gave this small suitcase filled with donated clothing.

The museum has a treasure of artifacts, photos, history and memorabilia of the Titanic plus a full display of the Titanic movie.

More than a million visitors have come to Branson to see this museum.

Information courtesy of Tulsa Beacon

Branson Christmas Show Schedule for 2008 a Singing Success

Christmas Season in Branson combines holiday traditions with new festive events to create a holiday atmosphere full of cheer. The entire town of Branson becomes transformed into a winter wonderland during the Christmas season, twinkling with the shine of millions of lights heralding in the season that means so much to so many. One of the great things about Christmas in Branson are the fantastic holiday shows. Branson Christmas Shows offer a variety of Christmas music - from traditional carols to cowboy Christmas songs – so your ticket to holiday fun is just a click away with ReserveBranson.com.

Mr. Christmas, who is no other than Andy Williams, helps Branson bring Christmas home with his wonderful Andy Williams Christmas show, which features Christmas standards, Andy’s legendary hits and a wholesome message for the whole family. Another legendary entertainer, Bobby Vinton, returns to Branson for the 2008 Christmas season. Performing at the Mansion America Theater, Vinton’s show will feature the Glenn Miller Orchestra and all of Vinton’s classic hits, like “Blue Velvet.” Broadway’s Spirit of Christmas is an energetic production focused on the fun of the holiday. The show takes guests on a magical sleigh ride adventure that showcases holiday hits, extravagant costumes and sets, and the charismatic Osmond Brothers (Jimmy, Jay & Wayne).

Two of Branson’s top guest performers during the Christmas season include Daniel O’Donnell and Dino. Daniel O’ Donnell, an acclaimed Irish musician who has appeared on special PBS productions, will appear in Branson for two nights only, November 21st & 24th. The Dino Christmas show is an incredible production featuring Dino Kartsonakis and his fantastic piano-playing skills. His wife, Cheryl, also joins him for the show, as do professional dancers, a dazzling light show and a dash of Hollywood glamour to put this production over the top.

Shoji Tabuchi, Branson’s Ultimate Showman, presents an incredible Christmas production at this aptly named Shoji Tabuchi Theater, complete with holiday music, North Pole sets, and snow! I viewed a small snippet of the Christmas show during a regular season Shoji Tabuchi show and it certainly left me wanting more. Tony Orlando & The Lennon Sisters will also be making a special Branson appearance, performing at the Welk Resort throughout the holiday season. Their Christmas Celebration will include the Lennon Sisters’ hits, Orlando’s famous classics and Christmas carols that the whole family can enjoy. The Hamner Barber Wings of Christmas production combines holiday laughter, magical illusions and old-fashioned Christmas memories for a show that makes every audience member feel like a kid again.

The Duttons Christmas show is all-new this 2008 Christmas season, and with the help of Hollywood special effects artist Rick Josephson, it promises to be the biggest and best Christmas production they’ve offered to Branson visitors yet. The Dixie Stampede Christmas Show is promising a stellar production that truly is fun for those of all ages. A friendly rivalry between the North & South poles gives visitors something to cheer for, while the holiday music and beautiful costumes transports guests to a Christmas scene they won’t soon forget. Plus, the show also serves up a delicious feast of holiday trimmings, with biscuits and soup that are out of this world. Christmas on the Trail is a traditional holiday show, located at the Shepherd of the Hills complex, that serves up festive holiday fun with carol sing-a-longs, a chuckwagon dinner, Trail of Lights admission, and a trip up Branson’s biggest Christmas tree, the 230 ft. Inspiration Tower, where you can have a birds-eye view of all of Branson’s lights. The Sons of the Pioneers are also offering a special Holiday Matinee during the months of November & December at the Shepherd of the Hills complex.

For many Branson visitors, a holiday excursion isn’t complete without a holiday tour of lights. The Trail of Lights event at Shepherd of the Hills winds its way through 160 acres of glowing lights, 3-D animation and holiday music creating a spectacular display of holiday cheer. A trip up Inspiration Tower is also included with the price of admission. The Ride the Ducks are also presenting a Holiday Light Tour. From November 3 – December 14 the Ride the Ducks Holiday Light Tour will take guests on a 60 minute tour of Branson’s Best light displays. Plus, the Ducks are closed-in and heated for the holiday season, so you can enjoy the lights while staying warm and toasty!

Join Branson, Missouri for an unforgettable Christmas season. With wonderful Branson Christmas Shows and beautiful holiday light displays, the spirit of the season has found a home in this Midwest Mecca.

Moon River Theater Home to New Legendary Entertainers in 2009

Things will be shaking up at the Andy Williams Moon River Theatre in Branson in 2009.

On Friday afternoon, Williams announced that three new acts will be performing at his venue next season.

Bill Haley’s Original Comets, the Righteous Brothers’ Bill Medley and Paul Revere & the Raiders will take the stage, beginning April 21, 2009.

“I am very pleased and excited to welcome these great entertainers to my theater,” Williams said. “It will be a terrific thing for Branson.”

The Comets will perform 2 p.m. shows from April 21-Aug. 25, and Oct. 1-29. Medley with Paul Revere and the Raiders will perform shows from April 21-Aug. 29; Sept. 1-30; and Oct. 1-24.

At 2 and 7 p.m., from Sept. 1-30, Williams will be performing in the Andy Williams All-Star Variety Show. Williams also announced that his Christmas show will be at 2 and 7 p.m. from Nov. 2-Dec. 7.

Williams told the crowd of more than 150 people that he brought in these acts so he could have some time off.

“I’m an extremely busy man,” he said. “This is going to give me some time to relax and I will also try to finish my autobiography.”

Williams had some of the entertainers address the audience at the Moon River Grille in Branson.
“I am thrilled to death to be here,” Medley said. “We’re very honored to be at the same venue with a great entertainer like (Williams).

“Filling in for (Williams) is a tough job. We love Branson and this is a wonderful opportunity.”

In talking about the Comets, Williams remarked about their age,

“I like to book acts who are older than me,” Williams said. “Actually, they are great entertainers and I will enjoy what they have to share with audiences in Branson.”

The three original Comets include Joey Ambrose, Marshall Lytle and Dick Richards.

“We are so proud to be here,” Ambrose said. “Heck, at our age, we are proud to be anywhere. It’s going to be a lot of fun and we could not be more happy with coming here to share our talents.”

Information courtesy of Branson Daily News

Branson's Holiday Promenade of Stars Parade set for November 1st

Ozark Mountain Christmas is right around the corner.

The Holiday Promenade of Stars Parade, set for Nov. 1 at Branson Landing, will mark the kick-off for Ozark Mountain Christmas.

The event, the first of the 2008 festivities for Ozark Mountain Christmas, is set for 10 a.m., and officials said it will feature many Branson entertainers, a marching band, dancers, acrobats, drummers and more.

“This is going to be a wonderful event,” said Gary Bartlett, CEO of Midwest Concerts, who is helping organize the event. “Last year, we had between 2,000 and 3,000 people there. This year, we are expecting there to be a lot more people there.”

Grand Marshall for this year’s parade will be world-famous entertainer Andy Williams. Later in November, Williams will take to the world stage as he is scheduled to perform in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City.

“(Williams) will be singing ‘It’s The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year’” said Gail Joist, with the Andy Williams Moon River Theatre.

Back in Branson on Nov. 1, the parade will begin at 10 a.m. at the north end of the Landing, near the Belk Department Store. The parade will move along the thoroughfare until it arrives in Town Square.

Along with the parade, there will be two live performance stages — one at the Landing Town Square and one near Bass Pro Shops.

“There is going to be a lot of entertainment and I think people are going to really enjoy who we are bringing in,” Bartlett said.

The entertainment lineup includes Andy Williams, American Idol contestant Jason Yeager, Star Search winner Jake Simpson, and local entertainers Bob Anderson, Moe Bandy, the Lennon Sisters, the cast of SIX, the Liverpool Legends, and more.

“There is definitely a wide variety of entertainment set for this event,” Bartlett said. “It’s going to be awesome.”

Bartlett said some bleacher seating would be available near both stages. He also encouraged those people coming to the event to bring their own folding chairs.

Information courtesy of Branson Daily News

Branson's Andy Williams Presents Annual Christmas Show

Former President Ronald Reagan once referred to Andy Williams’ voice as “a national treasure.”

It’s that time of year when this national treasure is heard in Branson for the Christmas season.

Williams is currently preparing his 2008 Christmas stage show, which will appear at his Moon River Theatre in Branson from Nov. 1-Dec. 13.

Featuring dazzling production numbers, which look like Christmas cards come to life, Williams will be joined by a cast of singers, dancers and costumed characters, and perform all of the seasonal favorites, as well as many of his greatest hits.

There are many who remember sitting in front of the television each year and watching Williams and his family and their Christmas celebration.

Millions of Americans made that viewing a holiday tradition for many years. The popularity of the television special led to the idea of putting together a seasonal concert.

Williams would play 25-30 cities each holiday period. In recent years, he began to lessen the number of cities he played and began to present the Christmas show at the Moon River Theatre in Branson.

Williams’ legendary career began at the age of 8 as part of The Williams Brothers Quartet.

In 1951 the brothers decided to each pursue their own solo careers. Williams went to New York and became a regular performer on Steve Allen’s “Tonight Show.” His first album was released in 1956.

During his career, Williams has amassed almost 20 gold albums and three that reached platinum status.

Information courtesy of Branson Daily News

Branson's Ozark Mountain Christmas Begins November 1st

The Live Music Show Capital of the World - Branson - kicks off Ozark Mountain Christmas on Nov. 1 with star-filled Christmas music shows and a Holiday Promenade of Stars parade at Branson Landing.

Branson's star entertainers and holiday production numbers are ready to dazzle visitors and their families in November and December. From "Mr. Christmas" Andy Williams to Tony Orlando and the Lennon Sisters at the Welk Resort, a multitude of shows deck the halls and showcase Branson's Christmas spirit.

"Christmastime in Branson reminds me of Christmas when I was a boy. There's an excitement about Christmas in Branson with the shows, Silver Dollar City and all the other attractions. The atmosphere in Branson around Christmas always seems that much more welcoming and warm," said Williams, whose trademark Christmas sweaters add to the holiday cheer.

Familiar carols fill the air at family shows like the Presleys, Baldknobbers, and Hughes Brothers and peals of laughter roll down the aisles at Jim Stafford, Hamner-Barber and Yakov Smirnoff's shows. From the Oak Ridge Boys' Christmas show, to Broadway's Spirit of Christmas with The Osmonds, Branson wraps up its musical packages with one-of-a-kind festive family fun. And, for the kid in everyone, there's a "magical" Christmas show as well, at world-famous Kirby VanBurch's Christmas Spectacular.

Silver Dollar City's An Old Time Christmas (Nov. 1 - Dec. 30), one of America's most acclaimed Christmas celebrations, is kicking off its brightest season to date with new shows and activities, plus more lights than ever presented throughout the streets of the 1880's-style theme park. Newly enhanced lighting, through the addition of thousands of energy saving lights and all-new wrapping of 40-foot-tall trees, the spectacular Christmas on Main Street, with its showcase five-story special effects Christmas tree and all-immersive light and sound show, is even more spectacular. Also new this year, Silver Dollar City presents Frosty, an interactive musical, and the Culinary & Craft School that will premier this holiday season. Returning favorites include the Holiday Light Parade with colorful musical floats and the acclaimed production A Dickens' Christmas Carol. And for nighttime thrills, the roller coasters are open after dark with great views of the park's four million lights.

On the first Sunday in December, thousands of people gather in downtown Branson to watch a Christmas parade dedicated to "the true meaning of the season." This year marks the 60th Adoration Parade, an evening event with dozens of high school bands and lighted floats. The theme has always been "Keeping Christ in Christmas."

The Showboat Branson Belle is bedecked in all its Christmas finery and charts a course for holiday food and fun on Table Rock Lake though December. Also, the World's Largest Titanic Museum Attraction will be decorated with thousands of merry lights and holiday trim that recall those elegant Christmases past.

Holiday shoppers will discover Branson's newest "Winter Wonder Landing" at the Branson Landing waterfront. The Landing features a promenade of trendy specialty shopping and dining establishments, the brilliant water and fire spectacular that dances to the sounds of the season in the Town Square and Santa Claus, who has even been known to vacation in Branson himself.

Three name-brand outlet malls, boutique shops at the Grand Village, Ozarks craftsmen at Branson Mills and Engler Block and shops throughout Branson are decked out in lights with holiday decorations that beckon Yuletide visitors.

Christmas traditions in the Branson/Lakes Area include a Christmas light display at the Enchanted Forest on Indian Point Rd., the Christmas on the Trail show and Trail of Lights at Shepherd of the Hills Historic Homestead and the animated lighting displays of the 1-mile Branson Area Festival of Lights drive-through.

For rest and relaxation following a fun holiday entertainment and shopping outing, a host of Branson lodging options and special offers are available from a cozy cabin at one of the lakeside resorts to luxurious hotel rooms and condos throughout the area.

Branson has more than 100 live shows, theme parks, pristine lakes, golf courses, family attractions, shopping and other features that are fun for everyone!

Information courtesy of Branson Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce

A Taste of Branson: Andy Williams' Moon River Grill

When you think cities known for their great restaurants, good food, fine wines ... what comes to mind? New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Branson?Wait, Branson?

If a handful of creative and committed culinary professionals get their way, Branson will soon be a city everyone thinks of when it comes to treating your tastebuds to a night on the town.

And why not? After a long day of shopping, shows and sightseeing, what better way to recharge your batteries than with a great meal and a cold beverage at one of Branson’s growing list of new eateries.

Up on Highway 76, music icon and veteran Branson entertainer Andy Williams recently spent more than $1.5 million to turn a financially failing sports bar into a one-of-a-kind restaurant experience featuring old family recipes, top-notch service and a pop-art collection. And down on the new Branson Landing, nearly a dozen dining destinations have opened their doors to offer tourists and locals alike a wide variety of places to break bread.

They’re listed on the Moon River Grill menu as “Andy’s favorites.”Williams admits it was the recipes he remembers his mother whipping up in the kitchen that provided much of the inspiration for the menu.

“I used my mother’s recipes for the chicken vegetable soup, for the rhubarb shortcake, for the spaghetti and meatballs, and for the meatloaf,” he said. “Pot roast, chicken pot pie, mac and cheese, and catfish are all things that I really liked. They’re what you call comfort foods.”

Although he designed and decorated the grill himself, he said he had a little help when it came to putting the menu together and perfecting the old family favorites for mass production.

“Mainly I used my brother, Don, who is the cook in the family,” Williams said. “He kept the recipes of my mother’s. He spent about two days in the kitchen with my chefs on the things that just weren’t turning out the way we wanted them to.”

Hours of work were spent on perfecting menu favorites such as the chicken pot pie, for example.

“We finally got it the way we wanted, which was with a lot of carrots and not too stiff,” he explained. “It should be creamy.”

The next step was to ensure consistency in the dishes’ preparation and presentation. “We don’t want people to come in one time and get a wonderful duck breast, and then come in another time and get one that isn’t so wonderful,” he said. “That’s what you don’t want.”

Inconsistency kills, he said.Wine and art

Not only is much of the menu based on old family favorites, the wine list offers four California varieties — a cabernet, merlot, chardonnay and white zinfandel — specifically bottled and labeled for Williams in addition to the other vintages offered.

“We made a deal with a wine company up in Napa called Round Hill Winery,” he said. “I had a wine-tasting at home with about 10 friends. Round Hill sent some samples to taste, and we picked the ones we liked the best. The ones we really liked, the ones that came out way ahead in our tasting, are the ones on the menu.”

Not in the mood for the fruit of the grape? Williams suggests a drink called a Naughty Betty. The fruity, mai tai-like beverage is named after an eye-catching painting of a chimpanzee in a dress that hangs behind the bar at Moon River Grill.

“Naughty Betty was painted by Donald Roller Wilson, a painter out of Arkansas,” Williams said. “He’s collected by a lot of celebrities. Robin Williams is a big fan of his.” Naughty Betty really is naughty, Williams emphasizes. He said to just read around the painting when you are in the bar to find out why.

“There’s a little bit of a story about Naughty Betty,” he joked. In addition to Naughty Betty, Williams displays much of his pop-art collection — including works by Andy Warhol and Roy Liechtenstein — on the walls of the restaurant’s dining room.

Located at 2600 W. Highway 76, the Moon River Grill opens at 11 a.m. daily. For more information, call (417) 337-9539.

Information courtesy of Joplin Globe

Branson Celebrates the Holidays

Christmas in the Ozarks has become big business for Branson. The southwest Missouri town of 7,435 welcomes the holiday season with dancing Santas, reindeer, penguins and millions of twinkling lights.

Twenty years ago, Branson nearly shut down after Halloween until the spring season. But now, November and December are Branson's second busiest period — exceeded only in numbers of visitors by the summer onslaught of families with kids interested in miniature golf, bumper cars and boats, go-karts and swimming in the area's three lakes.

Branson's older visitors are often the town's best customers during the holidays. On a recent Friday night, 24 buses (or coaches, as insiders refer to them) sat outside fiddler Shoji Tabuchi's show.

Another favorite — singer Andy Williams — sings about Christmas being "The Most Wonderful Time of the Year." He'll celebrate his 80th birthday on Dec. 3 with 4,000 of his closest friends in two shows he'll be doing that day at his Moon River Theatre.

And a few other acts include:

— Singer-comedian Jim Stafford gives audience members a reason to ho-ho-ho as he dons a Santa suit each night at his show.

— Fiddler Shoji Tabuchi, who performs holiday tunes, is often surrounded by 7-foot tall reindeer standing on their hind legs. The reindeer return later wearing hula skirts and coconut bras to do another dance with Tabuchi, who wears an aqua blue jacket emblazoned with sequined pineapples.

— Russian comedian Yakov Smirnoff is backed up by Frosty the Snowman, Santa and a Russian dance troupe.

— Country's Larry Gatlin & the Gatlin Brothers, Lawrence Welk's Lennon Sisters, "Mr. Banjo" Buck Trent and Mel Tillis spend much of the holidays entertaining busloads of tourists and those who "drive on their own" to Branson. Many of the big-name shows will shut down by Dec. 15 until the spring season begins in early April.

SILVER DOLLAR CHRISTMAS

By far the biggest Christmas spectacular is "An Old Time Christmas" at Silver Dollar City, which switched this year to more energy-efficient lights, cutting its energy usage to 20 percent of what it was a year ago, explained Brad Thomas, park general manager.

This year, the park's Main Street features a five-story special effects Christmas tree covered with 300,000 lights that glow and flash in unison to music that begins at 5:30 p.m. and continues every 15 minutes after that. More than 450,000 lights adorn the surrounding 10 storefronts and 250 cut pine trees. A Gifts of Christmas Light Parade with 80,000 lights winds through the park twice each night. In addition, Silver Dollar City's excellent production of "A Dickens' Christmas Carol" with 14 actors is performed six times daily, along with a "live" nativity scene.

On a recent Saturday night, a wedding party delayed the ceremony to watch the tree-lighting before exchanging vows in the park's picturesque Wilderness Chapel.

Toby Thompson of Topeka, Kan., brings his wife, son and in-laws to Branson each year for Thanksgiving and a family reunion. However this year, the reunion has moved to Fort Worth, Texas. But they took a quick three-day trip to Branson over Veteran's Day weekend, anyway. "We enjoy coming here for the Christmas activities and staying in a log cabin," he said. "The area is just so beautiful that we love coming here. And the women love to go shopping here."

The Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce survey confirms that 88 percent of its nearly 8 million visitors last year report going shopping in Branson compared with 84 percent attending shows, 36 percent going to theme parks and 33 percent to museums. Other tourists went to the lake (29 percent), participated in outdoor activities (8 percent) and played golf (5 percent).

NEW SHOPS

Branson's newest shopping complex, the $420 million Branson Landing, which opened in May last year, has been renamed Branson Winter WonderLanding for the season, with Santa setting up in a 50-foot illuminated Christmas Treehouse with its own fireplace. The outdoor mall along Lake Taneycomo is adorned with 20 million sparkling lights. The $7.5 million Branson Landing fountains are choreographed to holiday songs as they shoot water 120 feet into the air and five cannon blast fireballs above the lake.

Information St. Louis Post-Dispatch

Celebrate the Holiday Season with an Ozark Mountain Christmas

Do you find yourself asking, "Whatever happened to a traditional family Christmas?" Come to Branson, Missouri, and celebrate the true meaning of the Christmas season. Nationally recognized by newspapers and travel associations as one of the top Christmas destinations in the nation, America's Live Entertainment Capital is all aglow in the spirit of the season. It all begins on November 1! With lots of star-filled Christmas shows, the famous 76 Strip and a glittering array of animated lighting displays including the 1-mile Branson Area Festival of Lights drive-through, a visit to Branson will create beautiful memories and new Christmas traditions for your family.

Branson's star performers, special effects and elaborate holiday production numbers are ready to dazzle visitors and their families in November and December. From the famous voice of "Mr. Christmas" Andy Williams to the multimedia extravaganza of The Christmas Sounds of Mannheim Steamroller at The Grand Palace, as well as Mel Tillis and Connie Smith at the Welk Resort, there's a multitude of Branson Christmas shows that deck the halls with boughs of holly and showcase the holiday's finest talent. Music fills the air at Branson's family shows like the Presleys, The Baldknobbers, and the Hughes Brothers and peals of laughter roll through the aisles at Jim Stafford, Hamner-Barber and Yakov Smirnoff's shows. From the Lennon Sisters with the Gatlin Brothers to Barbara Fairchild, the Twelve Irish Tenors and Broadway's Spirit of Christmas with The Osmonds, Branson wraps up its musical packages with one-of-a-kind holiday family fun. And, for the kids in all of us, there's a "magical" Christmas celebration as well, at world-famous Kirby VanBurch's Christmas Spectacular.

Silver Dollar City, an internationally awarded theme park, presents an all-new, $1 million light and sound extravaganza for "An Old Time Christmas" the park's biggest light show ever. Called "Christmas on Main Street," the show features a new 5-Story Special Effects Christmas Tree that blazes to the musical movements of Christmas songs, joined by one million lights on trees, shop fronts and hanging canopies all flashing, as surround-sound fills the Square. The entire park glows with millions of flickering lights and a Holiday Light Parade with colorful, musical floats winds through the streets.The acclaimed Dickens' "Christmas Carol" returns with the special effects said to be one of the best productions in the history of the park. Plus, holiday food, strolling Christmas carolers and the roller coasters are open after dark for the thrill of the lights from above.

The Showboat Branson Belle is bedecked in Christmas finery and charts a course for holiday food and fun on Table Rock Lake though December. Also, the World's Largest Titanic Museum Attraction will be decorated with thousands of merry lights and holiday trim that recall those elegant Christmases past. Your family can discover Branson's newest "Winter Wonder Landing" at the Branson Landing waterfront, featuring a promenade of trendy specialty shopping and dining establishments, the brilliant water and fire spectacular that dances to the sounds of the season in the Town Square and Santa Claus, who has even been known to vacation in Branson himself!

For all of your Christmas shopping, there are three name-brand outlet malls, boutique shops at the Grand Village and Ozarks craftsmen at Branson Mills and Engler Block with their stores all decked out in lights with elaborate holiday decorations that beckon Yuletide visitors.

A host of Branson lodging options are available from a cozy cabin at one of the lakeside resorts to luxurious hotel rooms and condos throughout the area.

While in the Branson/Lakes Area you can also enjoy a Christmas light display at the Enchanted Forest on Indian Point Rd. and the Christmas on the Trail show and Trail of Lights at Shepherd of the Hills Historic Homestead. On the first Sunday in December, thousands of people gather in downtown Branson to watch a Christmas parade dedicated to "the true meaning of the season." This year marks the 59th Adoration Parade in Branson, an evening event with dozens of high school bands and lighted floats. The theme has always been "Keeping Christ in Christmas."

"When I started my solo career, I believe God told me to come to Branson and sing with my kids. I'm a Southern California guy, but Christmas in the Ozarks is truly magical," says Righteous Brother Bill Medley, member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, who performs at Dick Clark's American Bandstand Theater.

Branson's Veterans Homecoming, Nov. 5-11, pays tribute to our nation's heroes from all wars and conflicts and all branches of service. For details about this weeklong series of events, tribute shows, reunions and more, click the above link.

Outdoor activities in the Ozarks like fishing, hiking, camping and other outdoor pursuits are year-round opportunities for sporting enthusiasts in the Ozarks. The cool, crisp weather in late autumn and early winter is an appealing time for outdoor activities. Those three pristine lakes never freeze, so they are ideal for fishing for bass, trout, crappie and other species, and there is boating and many other types of water activities even in mid-winter. The mild winters also allow visitors to enjoy the area's dozen championship Golf courses.

Information courtesy of Branson Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce