Downtown Branson Plumb Nellie Event Starts Friday

More than 150 crafters will exhibit their work during the 35th Annual Plumb Nellie Arts & Crafts Festival in Historic Downtown Branson on May 16-18, 2008.

The name "Plumb Nellie" is derived from an Old English expression that described street fairs in olden times when local farmers brought their produce and home crafts into the town square to sell. "Plumb" comes from the carpenter's plumb line that is used to be certain everything is square, and combined with "Nearly" (Nellie) it means perfectly nearly. It's a bit redundant and ungrammatical, but the old timers used to say "You can find "plumb nellie" anything at the fair."

The phrase also can be used to dramatize any event or incident that is particularly memorable, such as "I plumb nellie fainted when that big dog came running after me."

Crafters and artists from all over the Midwest will participate. The show is sponsored by the Downtown Branson Main Street Association to celebrate heritage and home crafts, the culture of arts and crafts, and the skills of individuals who want to keep the traditions of the past alive. Shoppers will find a wide variety of items including wood crafts, quilts and clothing, crocheted and knitted items, hats, purses and ladies accessories, toys, floral arrangements, ironwork and collectible dolls, plus many more. Food booths are also on the site, offering an eclectic supply of goodies and old favorites.

On Saturday, the Outrageous Dog Show will delight everyone. Any dog is eligible, and may be entered in categories such as Best Dressed Dog, Owner Look-alike, Longest Ears, Waggiest Tail, Most Talented, etc.

Craft booths will be in two large tents, located in the center of Downtown Branson at Commercial and Atlantic streets. The show is open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday through Saturday, and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. Admission is FREE.

While visiting Branson, those in the pet competition will want a pet friendly Branson hotel to stay at during their visit. Be sure to make reservations early for better savings.

Billboard Song Contest Awards Show Hottest Ticket in Branson

The 15th Billboard World Song Contest Awards Show and Presentation will be held March 29 at 7:00pm at the Mansion Entertainment and Media Center in Branson, MO. This performance of the winners of their respective songwriting genres promises to be the best ticket in Branson to open the season in America's favorite Entertainment City. Twelve top talents whose songwriting and performing skill have earned them recognition in the world's top songwriting contest will be onstage pouring their hearts into their personal best songs. They will also be competing for cash prizes that night.

Each writer has already won prizes and recognition by winning one of twelve categories of music. Top prizes include keyboards from Casio America, membership in key music organizations TAXI, Sonicbids, GoGirlsMusic.com, as well as BluBlocker Sunglasses, D’Addario guitar strings, software from Indie Band Manager and more.

Tickets can be bought via ticketmaster at the Mansion Entertainment and Media Center website.

Join us in Branson for the celebration of America's finest new all around talent!

Branson Events for March 2008

March Events for Branson, Missouri

TITANIC Salutes the Irish

March 1, 2008 - March 17, 2008

Location: The Titanic Museum

A celebration of Gaelic traditions and music.

2008 Branson Victory Campaign

March 6, 2008 - March 8, 2008

Times: Thurs. 7:00 p.m.; Fri. 9 a.m., 2 p.m. & 7 p.m.; Sat. 9:30 a.m. & 6:30 p.m.

Location: Faith Life Church: 3701 West Highway 76; Branson, MO 65616

Phone: 800-600-7395

Jump into faith. hope. love. health. wealth. Fullness of Blessing at the 2008 Branson Victory Campaign. Join us for total immersion in the Word of God with speakers Kenneth & Gloria Copeland.

12th Annual Branson Tri-Lakes Building & Home Show

March 7, 2008 - March 9, 2008

Location: Branson Convention Center

Phone: 417-334-1200

For 12 years, this first class consumer show has been hosting the areas leading companies in one location to bring you everything from home improvement, remodeling, landscaping, home security, kitchen and bath and so much more! For the first time in 12 years the Branson Tri-Lakes Building and Home Show will be held at the beautiful Branson Convention Center at the Branson Landing. This year could be one of the largest in number of vendors and attendees! Our three day event will include vendor booths, prizes, seminars and special guests.

NAIA Division II Men’s Basketball Tournament

March 12, 2008 - March 18, 2008

Location: Keeter Gymnasium at College of the Ozarks

Phone: 417-334-6411 ext. 4393

The Division II championship is a 32 team, single-elimination tournament featuring the champions of the Division II conferences, regional tournaments and at-large berths.

Silver Dollar City's Family Spring Break Days

March 20, 21, 22 2008

March 27, 28, 30 2008

Times: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Location: Silver Dollar City

15th Billboard World Song Contest Awards Presentation Show & Performance

March 29, 2008

Location: Mansion America Theatre

Phone: 918-624-2100 or 918-827-6529

The top three winners in each of the eleven categories will have their song featured on a CD that is distributed exclusively to music industry decision makers - record company heads, producers, A&R executives, music publishers, important artists and celebrities, agents, managers and others in the music industry. They listen! This contest offers unparalleled exposure for up-and-coming songwriters. It's the songwriter"s springboard to success. Song categories are: Rock/Alt Rock, Pop, Country, Latin, Folk/Americana, Jazz, Contemporary Christian/Gospel, R&B/Blues, Dance, Rap/HipHop and World. New category Electronica/Soundtrack seeks entries to this growing niche.

Information courtesy of Branson Lakes Area Chamber & Visitors Bureau

Tour of Missouri will Return to Branson

Branson will, once again, grab a part of the cycling world spotlight in 2008.

“Branson has the unique opportunity once again to host the Tour of Missouri Time Trial on Sept. 10. If you combine world-class cycling along with our live entertainment, outdoor and lake recreation and our famous Ozarks hospitality, this really sets Branson apart,” said Ross Summers, President/CEO of the Branson/Lakes Area Convention & Visitors Bureau.

On Wednesday, Gov. Matt Blunt and Lt. Gov. Peter Kinder announced the itinerary for the 2008 Tour of Missouri. The tour, spanning seven days and 623 miles, will begin Sept. 8 with a 90-mile road race from St. Joseph to Kansas City. Rolla, St. James, and Herman have been added as new stops but the Tour will return to Clinton, Springfield, Branson, Lebanon, Jefferson City, and St. Charles before concluding beneath the Gateway Arch in St. Louis.

Last year’s Tour of Missouri had an economic impact of $26.2 million, demonstrating its value and benefits to Missouri. The estimated turnout was 367,566.

“The Tour of Missouri was an enormous success and generated a wave of energy that traveled across our state for a superb week of fun, entertainment and economic benefit,” Kinder said. “The Tour was six action-packed days of international professional cycling that was enjoyed by thousands of out-of-state visitors and by Missourians of all ages.”

Kinder said he anticipates the state’s share of race costs to again hover near the $1 million mark. He also expressed optimism that the race could attract a corporate title sponsor, something it lacked last year.“We expect to have more (corporate support) than last year and at a higher value,” he said.

Information courtesy of Branson Daily News

Auditions for "America's Got Talent" comes to Branson

This summer America could be reminded of the talent that Branson has got.

“America’s Got Talent” will be making its way to Branson for a showcase on February 20, where more Branson natives will be scouted to follow in the footsteps of The Duttons, Johnny Lonestar and Jason Pritchett.

“This is just another great opportunity for our entertainers to be nationally noted for their talents,” Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce director of public relations, Lynn Berry said.

Entertainers wanting to audition to try and win the show’s $1 million prize are asked to send a message to agtprocasting@gmail.com.

The email should include a phone number, a picture of the interested performer or group, a description of the act, the city where the entertainers live, a Web site or Myspace address and any other interesting information about the performer.

In the last two years “America’s Got Talent” has succeeded in bringing back the variety format to the forefront of American culture, by showcasing a colorful array of hopeful future stars including singers, dancers, comedic performances and other unique acts featuring performers of all ages.

Last year the Tri-Lakes Area received an immeasurable amount of publicity from the program as Branson alum strutted their stuff on stage in front on millions of viewers each week.

After the taping of the show concluded, a number of the entertainers featured on the program made their way to Branson to perform in a series of special shows at the Dutton Family Theater.

Tourism officials are hoping the show gives a similar boon to the “Live Entertainment Capital of the World” in 2008.

“I think at one time, five out of 20 acts on the show were from Branson,” Berry said. “This will hopefully just be another opportunity for the rest of the world to find out what all Branson has to offer.”

Information courtesy of Branson Daily News

Officials Preparing for 16th Annual BransonFest

BransonFest will make a return to 76 Country Boulevard this year, but that’s not the only thing that will be different. Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce Director of Tourism Development Krystal Simon said that the move of BransonFest to Dick Clark’s American Bandstand Theater and Area 57 is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the additions made to the 16th annual event, which will be held April 8-12.


“I think probably the biggest thing that we are going to be doing different this year is having corporate sponsors,” Simon said. “We’re hoping to get both local and national sponsors.”


She said having those companies on board as partners will give the event an increased budget. “Because of the sponsorships we should be able to try some new things that we haven’t been able to do in the past because we couldn’t afford it,” Simon said. Traditional elements of BransonFest will also still be a part of the festival.


The Hospitality and Business Expo will once again return featuring a variety of booths from area theaters, attractions and businesses.


The Arts, Culture & Heritage Area will again showcase Ozark Mountain art, culture and history presented by nationally recognized local artists displaying the fruits of their craftsmanship.


The Great American Entertainment Tent will have a new distinction this year as each night of the free entertainment played there will have a theme. “We’re doing that this year so people who like gospel or bluegrass or rock n’ roll music will know what night to come on to hear their favorite kind of music,” Simon said.


BransonFest will once again continue showcasing the various musical acts in Branson in a series of concerts.


“One of the big names that will be performing at BransonFest this year is Joe Diffie,” Simon said. “He’s new to Branson and is a big name.”

Information courtesy of Branson Daily News

Sight & Sound Theatres brings Christian-Style Broadway Show to Branson Area

Imagine witnessing the most beloved stories of the Bible come to life on one of the largest stages in the country. Sight & Sound Theatres®, described by some as "the Christian Broadway," will premiere the epic Bible story of Noah on May 24, 2008, at its new theatre in Branson, Mo., a month ahead of the originally scheduled opening. Tickets are now on sale!

The new Branson theatre, located at 1001 Shepherd of the Hills Expressway, is 339,000 square feet with a stage area of 26,550 square feet and seating for 2,085 patrons.

The production's 300-foot stage that wraps around three sides of the audience, 40-foot high sets, cast of 45 actors, elaborate costumes, breathtaking special effects, and hundreds of live and animatronic animals captivate and transport audience members as they experience Noah and his family's journey of persecution, faithfulness, hope and redemption.

Sight & Sound Theatres is the nation's largest professional Christian theatre company and one of the most-attended live theatres on the East Coast. Founded in 1976 by Glenn and Shirley Eshelman, Sight & Sound Theatres has produced spectacular, epic stories of the Bible at its original location in Lancaster County, Pa., where more than 800,000 theatergoers from across the country and around the world attend shows annually.

"We are committed to remaining on the forefront of bringing the word of God to life with exceptional quality, honoring God and encouraging the faith of our guests," said Eshelman.

About Sight & Sound Theatres:
The name "Sight & Sound" was inspired by the teaching of Jesus found in Matthew 13:10-23 where Jesus explains to the disciples why he spoke to the people in parables or stories.
Sight & Sound's purpose is to present the Gospel of Jesus Christ by visualizing and dramatizing the scriptures, through inspirational productions, encouraging others and seeking always to be dedicated and wise stewards of God-given talents and resources.

While it is a ministry, the company is not affiliated with any external organization or any particular church denomination. It is a for-profit organization and operates without charitable support.

Information courtesy of PR Newswire

Party the Night Away at Chateau on the Lake’s New Year’s Eve Fireworks Spectacular!

Chateau on the Lake Resort, Spa and Convention Center in Branson, Missouri will host one of the Midwest’s largest New Year’s Eve celebrations beginning at 7:00 p.m., Monday, Dec. 31, 2007 and featuring a colossal fireworks display over Table Rock Lake to culminate an evening of fine gourmet dining, live music and champagne toasts.

The New Year’s Eve celebration starts in the Chateau’s 32,000-square foot Great Hall with a festive hors d’oeuvres reception and cash bar at 7:00 p.m., followed by a plated dinner of Filet Mignon and fresh Atlantic Shrimp, and topped off with one of the Chateau’s signature hand-made specialty desserts, all presented by Executive Chef Anthony J. Burke, CEC and his team of culinary experts.

For a more intimate dining experience, the Chateau Grille will serve a special five-course New Year’s Eve holiday meal along with their regular menu selections. Reservations are strongly advised.

At 9:00 p.m., the popular Gary Myer’s Band will take the stage in the Great Hall and rock the night away with dance favorites from the 70s and 80s, with a little R & B added to the mix. Guests in the quaint Library Lounge will be treated to an evening of top-notch live jazz music, a roaring fire, an award-winning wine, beer and cocktail menu and complimentary party favors — all with no cover charge.

To signal to guests in the Great Hall that it’s time to bid adieu to 2007, the party hats and horns, champagne and a giant balloon droop will roll out just before midnight.

In keeping with the Chateau’s signature grand style, the resort will present a spectacular fireworks display just after midnight for hotel guests and thousands of spectators whose tradition is to watch from boats on Table Rock Lake, or at one of the popular viewing locations along Highways 165 and 265.

No New Year’s celebration would be complete at the Chateau without their famous New Year’s Day Champagne Brunch featuring dozens of traditional breakfast items, along with carved meats, shellfish, cheeses, salads and decadent desserts. The Chateau’s Dixieland Band serenade during brunch is sure to inspire a few New Year’s resolutions. Brunch runs from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. in the Chateau Grille. Reservations are suggested, but not required.

To make this New Year’s Eve celebration safe and enjoyable, the Chateau is offering several overnight packages starting at just $399 per couple (including tax and service charges), which includes admission to the Great Hall Party, two drink tickets, gourmet dinner for two, fireworks display and one night in a double room. The Chateau will extend a complimentary 6:00 p.m. checkout time to guests departing on New Year’s Day. Area residents can take advantage of the Spa Chateau’s local discount on a variety of new Spa treatments starting in 2008.

Chateau on the Lake, known for its superb mountain top location and world-class hospitality, is Southwest Missouri’s only AAA four-diamond resort. Chateau offers a wealth of recreational amenities for guests including the new $6 million Spa Chateau, heated indoor and outdoor pools and hot tubs, 24-hour fitness center, nature trail, two lighted tennis courts and a full-service marina. Other offerings include The Crawdaddies Kids Club with castle playground, a movie theatre, full-service concierge, two shops and five restaurants and lounges including lake-view dining at the award-winning Chateau Grille. A stunning 10-story sky-lit atrium lobby complete with running streams brimming with Koi fish, lush foliage, exotic flowers and towering trees adds a touch of drama to every arrival.

Information courtesy of Branson Chamber of Commerce

Image courtesy of Chateau on the Lake

More Ways to Celebrate the New Year in Branson!

Branson is a great place to spend New Year’s Eve. Here are a few more ways to celebrate:

Magnificent 7 New Years Eve Celebration ~Dinner & Show or Show Only~ Complete with party favors, balloon drop, and a toast!

The Magnificent 7 Branson’s Ultimate Music Variety Show introduces an array of multi-talented performers backed by Branson’s finest musicians. These entertainers will take you on a magnificent two-hour musical adventure. An unbelievable 150 costume changes and 50 different musical productions which include, country, swing, nostalgia, gospel, film & Broadway musicals will amuse and delight the entire family!

New Years Eve Celebration complete with party favors, balloon drop, and a toast.Guests can choose from show and dinner, or to attend just the show. Show only guests are asked to arrive after 8:00 p.m. Show begins at 9:00 p.m. Dinner is served from 6:30-8:30pm

VIP SHOW & DINNER
Upscale Buffet includes:
Prime rib w/ au jus
Chilled shrimp
Battered cod
Caesar salad with fresh parmesan and croutons
Seafood salad
Roasted garlic mashed potatoes
California steamed vegetables
Imported and domestic cheese
Fresh baked bread
Gourmet carrot cake

WEST WING SHOW & DINNER:
Buffet includes:
Top round of beef w/ au jus
Baked pork loin
Battered shrimp
Caesar salad with fresh parmesan and croutons
Bowtie pasta salad
Roasted garlic mashed potatoes
California steamed vegetables
Assorted domestic cheese
Dinner rolls
Assorted gourmet cheese cake

Beverages: Coffee, iced tea and water
Cash Bar:Assorted BeerAssorted Wine

New Year's Eve Celebration Dick Clark Style~Kick Off 2008 with Branson's Biggest New Year's Eve Celebration at Dick Clark's American Bandstand Theater!

This incredible New Year's Eve Show is hosted by movie star and pop icon FABIAN and stars the legendary BOBBY VEE with special guests THE CHIFFONS, BRIAN HYLAND and CHRIS MONTEZ. Show starts at 9p.m. Sting Ray & The Super Vee's will be Rockin' in the lobby 7- 8 p.m. Show tickets include: Party Favors & Hats, Cash Bar, Balloon Drop, and Champagne Toast at Midnight.

Jim Stafford's New Year's Eve Celebration~Your evening with Jim Stafford includes a fun-filled show, hors d' oeuvres, sparkling non-alcoholic wine, party favors and hats, a special keepsake gift and lots of New Year's Eve surprises.

The red carpet treatment is what it’s all about at the Jim Stafford Theatre! Not only are Jim Stafford’s audiences seated in the most luxurious seats in Branson, but they can experience the Jim Stafford Show like never before. Premium surround-sound and state-of-the-art lighting makes Jim’s hilarious comedy, laser light show, and 3-D Virtual Thrill Ride an unforgettable experience. And just when you think it can’t get any better than this, Jim astounds you with his incredible guitar pickin’. From his unique version of the blues to his amazing versatility with the guitar you’ll marvel at Jim’s uncanny ability to play with your mind and strum your senses.

Pierce Arrow New Year's Eve Show~Join us for an exciting night of fun and entertainment at the Pierce Arrow Theater in Branson, Missouri!

Pierce Arrow will perform a dynamic New Year's Eve Show with extra songs and comedy! You will also receive party favors including hats, noise makers and leis! You will also snack on Hor 'Doeurves and enjoy a beverage.

The evening of entertainment features the dynamic vocal group “Pierce Arrow”, including Dan Britton, who for nearly 20 years has held the World's lowest note hit by a bass singer on earth in the Guinness Book of World Records and Branson's funniest new comedian, Jarrett Dougherty! For an extra treat, female vocalist, Kim Boyce joins Branson's Hottest Show! Kim is a former Miss Florida and runner-up for the Miss America Pageant and has held 11 #1 Contemporary Gospel Records in her career.

If you love smooth harmonies, great Country Music, rock-the-house Gospel, complimented with amazing patriotic medleys, hilarious comedy, and side-splitting humor, you'll love the Pierce Arrow New Year's Eve Show! See you New Year's Eve!

Holiday Shopping at Dick's 5 &10 Store in Branson

If you are old enough to remember shopping at a "dime store" with parents or grandparents, Dick's Oldtime 5 and 10 in downtown Branson, Missouri will delight every sense. This old-fashioned dime store operates daily in the nostalgic downtown district of one of America's favorite resort cities. Christmas shoppers will love Dick's Oldtime 5 and 10 because shopping here is like a trip to the past.

The store has been held the same location on a corner for more than fifty years. Every narrow aisle is filled with treasures that someone on your holiday gift list is sure to appreciate.

Upon entering the store, many visitors are stopped by the sight of working model trains that travel the rails above their heads. Others pause because the sheer amount of merchandise crammed into a single store space is astonishing. Each aisle is stocked with merchandise from floor to high above the average shopper's head.

Dick's claims to stock more than 40,000 nostalgic items. The varied stock includes everything from collectible figurines, toys, games, clothing, metal mesh fly swatters, pots and pans, cooking supplies, linen goods including "stamp goods" ready to embroider, novelties of every description, old-fashioned candy, and more.

Remember the toys you played with as a child or dreamed of finding on Christmas morning? Most of them can be found at Dick's 5 and 10. Simple toys like jacks, rag dolls, checkerboards, stick horses, and more line the aisles here. Don't look for the electronic marvels that can be found in every toy and discount department stores because they are not here. Simple china tea sets and toy cars that rely on boy powder instead of batteries are the norm.

If a cook is on your Christmas list, check out the wide selection of cooking tools and accessories. Aprons like Grandma used to wear are in stock everyday and so are things like hand-powered cheese graters, meat grinders, utility forks, and coffeepots that make coffee on top of the stove, no electric outlet needed!

Guys will find tools to their boys-at-heart content and gals can find something that their man doesn't have in his toolbox here. From the basics like hammers and screwdrivers to various saws and fishing gear, there is a wide selection of equipment for the male members of the family.

Cloth diapers - the real thing - are found here near rubber duckies for baby's bath. Baby shoes that don't have designer names can be located.

Stuffed animals, ladies stocking garters, the kind of candy that grandparents remember from before World War II, wind chimes, novelty cards, Betty Boop and Coke memorabilia, and enough Elvis artifacts for the most devoted fan are here at Dick's 5 and 10.

Find things you forgot existed until you see them on the shelf here and give gifts with nostalgic value this season. These are not replicas but practical, working items that can be used everyday or put on display with pride.

Cards that cater to the past can be found along with bobby pins, scented talc powders, hats, candles, decorations, and everything but the kitchen sink (which might well be tucked away in some corner of the store).

Wear comfortable shoes and plan to spend hours shopping the vintage goods at Dick's 5 and 10 in Branson. The store is located downtown at 103 West Main Street or at the corner of Main and commercial.

Information courtesy of Associated Content

Celebrate Christmas with Branson's Adoration Parade and Lighting Ceremony

The oldest non-commercial Christmas parade in Missouri returns on Sunday evening, December 2, 2007 at 5:30 pm. This year’s parade will be the 59th annual and will start with the annual lighting of the largest area nativity scene, on Mount Branson overlooking Lake Taneycomo, at dusk and culminates in a community gathering like no other with the Adoration Parade celebrating Christmas.

If you’ve ever asked yourself the question, “What happened to Christmas?” then this inspirational community event is the answer you’ve been seeking. The Branson community gathers on this special day to set aside our individual aspirations and celebrate the true meaning of the Christmas season. It is a chance to stop and reflect on the beauty of the Christmas story that still inspires people today. On this special night, no one is in the limelight and no organization is promoted, only an overwhelming outpouring of community and celebration as we come together to honor the story of Christmas.

The Adoration Parade and Lighting Ceremony provide an enchanting nighttime parade in the streets of Branson. Dozens of bands and floats participate in the parade, with awards being given to bands and floats in various divisions. Along with the parade, the lighting of a giant Nativity scene is traditionally held on Mt. Branson. For a parade route, click here.

Aside from the parade and Nativity scene lighting, the day typically holds a number of activities and events such as caroling lead up to the night's festivities. Come celebrate the holidays this winter in spectacular fashion and Ozarks charm with Branson's Adoration Parade and Lighting Ceremony.

Information courtesy of Branson Chamber of Commerce

An Old Time Christmas Celebration at Silver Dollar City

Come home for the holidays to An Old Time Christmas at Silver Dollar City! In Branson, Missouri, see all your family's favorites along with new surprises amidst the glow of over 4 million dazzling lights. You'll create special holiday traditions, celebrate the true meaning of this magical season and take home memories that will last a lifetime!

A NEW Christmas Light Spectacular premieres on Main Street!

Silver Dollar City's square becomes the setting for the All-NEW Christmas on Main Street, our biggest light show ever! The musical 5-story Special Effects Christmas Tree serves as the grand centerpiece as it twinkles and dances in unison, for the first time ever, with over 450,000 lights adorning the surrounding buildings and trees! That's over 720,000 lights illuminating the City's Square!

Hear traditional favorites as well as new musical numbers when you join the tree lighting celebration at 5:30 pm each evening during An Old Time Christmas. The Celebration features piano virtuoso Tracy Heaston, and includes the following moving musical selections:

• Carol of the Bell by David Foster from The Christmas Album
• Interlude by Steven Curtis Chapman from The Music of Christmas
• Joy to the World by the Boston Pops Orchestra from Sleigh Ride
• Medley by Michael W. Smith from Christmastime
• Suite from the Polar Express by Alan Sylvestri from The Polar Express Motion Picture Soundtrack
• Sleigh Ride by the Boston Pops Orchestra from Sleigh Ride

The celebration continues as 2 songs play every 15 minutes throughout the evening. Can't wait until Christmas? Then turn up your speakers and listen to a sample of the music right now!

A Dickens' Christmas Carol!

The grandest production show ever performed at Silver Dollar City, this original musical adaptation of the famous classic by Charles Dickens features astounding special effects, stunning Victorian scenery and exquisite period costuming.

The production showcases a talented cast of 14 actors, accompanied by a live band, in an inspiring story of redemption and hope. Presented November 10 - December 30, 2007 at the Opera House Theater.

• The Living Nativity - Transport your family to the little town of Bethlehem where the real reason for this joyous season is revealed in a celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ.
  Holiday Light Parade - Emblazoned in over 80,000 lights, the Gifts Of Christmas Holiday Light Parade glides through the streets of the City as colorful floats highlight the joys of the season (twice each evening - weather permitting).
• Meet world-renowned visiting artisans Ibrahim Giacaman, craftsman of the Wilderness Woods Nativities from Jerusalem, Israel, Nov. 15 - Dec. 8, 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Emanuel Fontanini of the famous Italian Nativity design family from Bagni Di Lucca, Italy, Nov. 23, 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Nov. 24, 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
• Kringle's Krossing - Pay a visit to St. Nicholas, at his home away from home.
• Holiday Shows resound throughout city streets with the sounds of the season!
• Rides & Attractions open during our festival, weather permitting, include The Giant Swing, Flooded Mine, Fire-In-The-Hole, Frisco Sing-Along Steam Train, Geyser Gulch, Grandfather’s Mansion, Homestead Barnyard, Marvel Cave, Thunderation, Tom Sawyer’s Landing, PowderKeg®, WildFire™ and the Grand Exposition!
• The tastes of the season are in abundance throughout the park from traditional feasts to your favorite treats! Children can even have Lunch With Santa (available on select dates, reservations required).

Branson Festival of Lights display Holiday Cheer

The Shine of Christmas lights will be coming from a different part of Branson this holiday season. Beginning on November 1 and all aglow through December 31, this year’s drive-through will be located at Shepherd of the Hills Expressway and Expressway Lane, close to the new Sight & Sound Theatre.

Experience the magic of an Ozark Mountain Christmas with the Branson Area Festival of Lights 2007 as all of Branson sparkles for the holidays. From fabulous Christmas shows and dazzling lights to spectacular shopping and breathtaking scenic beauty, Branson is a special gift for everyone in your family at this festive time of year.

The centerpiece, Branson Area Festival of Lights Drive-Through, will delight children of all ages. Your journey begins with a magical 1-mile drive along a path aglow with over 120 displays. Conveniently located off of Shepherd of the Hills Expressway at Expressway Lane, this one-of-a-kind family experience promises to be memorable.

Also in the Branson/Lakes Area you can enjoy extraordinary Christmas lighting displays at Silver Dollar City’s Old Time Christmas celebration, the Enchanted Forest on Indian Point Rd. and the Trail of Lights at Shepherd of the Hills.

“It’s the perfect facility for the festival to grow, so we can add some new elements over the next couple years,” said Chamber Director of Tourism Development Krystal Simon.

2007 will mark BAFOL’s second year back in Branson after a one-year hiatus in 2005 due to the construction of Target, Home Depot and TJ Maxx in the Branson Hills area. Last year, the festival returned to Branson Hills Parkway but added traffic and the current Wal-Mart Supercenter construction project forced the chamber to look for a new venue for the holiday tradition.

“Expressway Lane has all the criteria that we need,” Simon said. “The drive-through was 1.25 miles long last year, so we’ll have plenty of room to make it about that length again. There is plenty of access to electricity, and there will be minimal interference with residential traffic.” Simon all stated that all of the 120 light displays used last year will again be utilized this season. “We’re going to be working with an individual to come up with a new design and configuration for the displays.”

The BAFOL Drive-Through will be open daily November 1st through December 31st from 5-11p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 5p.m.-midnight on Friday and Saturday.

Admission fees for 2007 will be $50 for full-sized motorcoaches, $25 for mini-coaches, church vans and limos, and family vehicles will be $10.

Information courtesy of Branson Daily News and Branson Chamber of Commerce