Branson Duttons Announce 2010 Schedule

The Duttons last 2009 season show will be December 8, but they will return in early 2010 for to special shows on January 1st and 2nd. In their time away from Branson, they will be performing in Arizona, through March, before they return for the Branson 2010 season.

The January 1st & 2nd shows will both be 8pm performances and will give fans a glimpse of what’s to come for the 2010 season.

The Dutton Family Theater will also be home to several other performers during the 2010 season. George Dyer, who had a limited engagement at the theater earlier this year, will return on February 11th, 2010. On March 9th, The Redhead Express returns for a new season. An all-new show – the Cat’s Pajamas vocal group – will open their show on March 13th. The Duttons will return on April 13th, and the popular Island Fire show will be back during the summer season for their 4th season in Branson.

Island Fire Show Fundraiser to be held at Dutton Family Theater

Official Press Release from The Dutton Theater:

Samoan Tragedy Strikes Branson - Dutton Family Plans Fundraiser

The tragic Samoan earthquake and tsunami have brought tears and heartache to Branson, as the tragedy became personal for the Samoan performers in the Island Fire Show at the Dutton Family Theater.

Iefata Saoleititi and his wife Rachel were celebrating the September 22nd birth of their baby daughter Deanna Marguerite when they received the news that their two year old son, Iefata Jr., perished in the disaster. The boy had been staying with Iefata’s parents in Samoa during the Island Fire performance season.

The Saoleititi’s are planning to return to Samoa on October 6th, provided they can arrange for an emergency issuance of a passport for baby Deanna. Branson City Administrator, Dean Kruithoff, has already contacted Senator Bond’s office for assistance in the matter. Dean and Alderman Cris Bohinc visited with the grief-stricken family today to offer their condolences and support.

Bella Dutton, the wife of Jonathan and a native of Samoa, announced that there will be a Island Fire Show fundraiser held at the Dutton Theater on Saturday, October 3rd at 8 PM. She told us, “Our Island Fire performers felt a need to present their show on Saturday night in an effort to raise money for Iefata and Rachel to return home to Samoa, as well as covering the burial expenses. Flights to Samoa, particularly at the last minute, are very expensive. Tickets will be $10 and all proceeds will go towards helping the Saoleititi’s. Those wanting the Island Fire meal that normally comes with the purchase of a full-priced ticket may purchase it for an additional $10. Any additional funds will be directed to helping the other performers who have lost family, friends, and homes.”

Another performer, Poinsettia (Tia) Taefu was awaiting word on her sister who was missing when she received a call saying that her sister was safe. The relief was short-lived when she was then told that her cousin’s three children had perished. Tia’s home and village was also destroyed, as was the home and village of fellow performer Luisa Tagomoa.

Bad news also reached other performers, including Hanson Simi Paialii, Jr., Malakai Lavatai, and Salele Moeai, along with Belle Dutton, as they learned of extended family members that died in the disaster.

Aside from the fundraiser this Saturday, Sheila Dutton told us, “We have also established a relief fund to help all of the families of our Island Fire performers. Anyone wishing to contribute can make donations at the Dutton Family Theater Box Office, bring them to the fundraising event, or deposit them to the Island Fire Family Relief Fund at Ozark Mountain Bank. We have arranged to keep the fund open throughout the remainder of the Island Fire Season which runs through first week of December.”

Have a Ball in Branson this Fall

Fall is a great time to visit Branson, Missouri. The scenery becomes enflamed with brilliant oranges, yellows and reds creating a backdrop of outdoor beauty that compliments any visit. It’s also a great time to visit due to the variety of entertainers who come to the area and perform special limited engagements. Plus, the cooler weather makes outings to Silver Dollar City even more enjoyable, especially as they host the National Harvest Festival.

During September and October, several stars come to Branson. Johnny Mathis, who is known for his song “Chances Are,” will perform at The Mansion Theater on October 9 & 10. The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, best known for their hit “Fishin’ in the Dark,” has a special performance scheduled on October 23 at The Mansion Theater. Neal McCoy will continue his limited engagement at the Yakov Smirnoff Theatre through November 1st. Lee Greenwood and the Bellamy Brothers will be performing at the Welk Resort Theater on select dates through October 24. The Tri-Lakes Center will host Roy Clark on select dates through October 24 as well. The Oak Ridge Boys will take the stage at The Oak Ridge Boys Theater in a limited engagement series through October 22.

Now is also the perfect time to enjoy some of Branson’s perennial favorites, like the Shepherd of the Hills Outdoor Drama and the Showboat Branson Belle. The fall weather makes the outdoor setting of the Shepherd of the Hills the perfect night out for families and it creates beautiful scenery for guests aboard the Showboat Branson Belle. While you’re here, make time for top-rated shows like Legends in Concert, SIX, The Duttons and Liverpool Legends, as well as the Dixie Stampede and Presleys Country Jubilee.

You’ll need a place to stay in Branson when you visit, and Branson has plenty of options to choose from. Whether you need a budget-friendly hotel like the Green Gables Inn or are looking for the spaciousness of a condo, like those at Thousand Hills Golf Resort, you’ll find it in Branson. We offer guaranteed lowest rates on most of our lodging options, so you can rest assured that you’re getting the best deal in town.

Break away to Branson this fall for a quick getaway or extended vacation. With so much to see and do, you’ll have a ball this fall in Branson.

George Dyer Currently Performing at Dutton Theater Branson

George Dyer is currently performing a limited engagement at The Dutton Theater in Branson, Missouri. He will be performing at the theater through November 20th.

Dyer has performed in operas and concerts throughout the world, and is known for his tenor voice and spectacular showmanship. He has release three solo recordings that have received numerous awards, and is the proud recipient of seven Pearl Awards from the Faith Centered Music Association, including “Male Vocalist of the Year” in 2005.

The show will spotlight a wide variety of music. Broadway, power ballads, love songs, pop songs and favorite oldies will all be a part of the George Dyer Show in Branson, MO at the Dutton Theater.

Ten Ways to Play in Branson Missouri

There are plenty of things to do in Branson. With a wide range of outdoor activities, as well as indoor fun available, Branson offers a little something for everyone when they visit. Whether you are a new Branson visitor or a repeat traveler, there’s always something new to do in Branson.

1) Silver Dollar City: Branson’s #1 attraction is home to old-fashioned fun as it is themed as a 1880s style theme park. There are demonstrating craftsmen at the park, delicious food, 40 live shows daily and thrilling rides like WildFire to keep your day in Branson filled with fun. Silver Dollar City also features six world-class festivals, so anytime you come there is something different to see and do. Currently, KidsFest is underway, which is a great festival for kids because it’s all geared towards them.

2) Branson Shows: Branson is home to a variety of shows. With more theater seats than Broadway, this town knows how to put on a show. Branson is known for its country music, and at shows like Pierce Arrow, The Duttons, The Presleys, The Baldknobbers and Country Tonite, there are plenty of country tunes to keep audiences entertained. There are a variety of other shows in Branson that don’t feature country music, including Bill Haley’s Original Comets, Broadway!, Noah – The Musical, Six, and the Acrobats of China. Of course, perennial favorites Yakov Smirnoff, Shoji Tabuchi, Dixie Stampede and Jim Stafford perform throughout the year, offering first class shows right in the heart of Branson.

3) White Water: Branson’s beach within reach is a great place to spend a day while you’re in town. Dive into summer fun on their over 12 acre park which pumps over two million gallons water daily. There are thrilling water rides like Kalani Towers, Ohana Falls, and Raging River Rapids for the older kids, and a lazy river, splash island, and wave pool for guests wanting to lounge and soak up some sun.

4) Table Rock Lake: Table Rock Lake is a beautiful Branson treasure offering swimming, boating, fishing and amazing scenery. People flock to this lake to enjoy the sights and activities found here. Located just minutes from the heart of Branson, a day at Table Rock Lake provides families with some time to enjoy the great outdoors while also enjoying the amenities of an entertainment town such as Branson.

5) Branson Shopping: Branson is a fantastic place to shop because it is home to three outlet malls, the waterfront Branson Landing, and plenty of craft malls to find that unique treasure to call your own. When you visit, make time to go to the various shops at Branson because there is always a deal to be found!

6) Ride the Ducks: These unique amphibious vehicles provide an entirely different way to see Branson. When you ride on duck, you are treated to a 70 minute tour given by a guide who has some interesting insight into Branson. 30 minutes of your 70 minute tour is spent on Table Rock Lake, cruising and enjoying the splendor of the area. One thing is for sure, when you go to Ride the Ducks you’re in for a quack-tastic sightseeing adventure.

7) Titanic Museum: Spend some time at the Branson Titanic Museum while you visit and you’ll learn all there is to know about this fateful ship. Housed in a massive half-size replica of the original ship, the museum itself is a sight to behold but once you’re inside there is even more to explore. With over 400 artifacts to discover and interactive displays, like touching an iceberg, make the Titanic Museum a must-see attraction in Branson.

8) Shepherd of the Hills: The Shepherd of the Hills complex offers a lot for visitors to see and do. They are home to the Shepherd of the Hills Outdoor Drama, the longest running outdoor drama in America. Based on the story written by Harold Bell Wright, Shepherd of the Hills Outdoor Drama features life in the Ozark Mountains in the late 1800’s. This story was one of the first things to make Branson’s Ozark Mountains famous and is still one of the more popular shows in town. The complex is also home to Inspiration Tower and they offer a Homestead Tour.

9) Golf in Branson: Branson is home to outstanding golf courses that offer some of the finest courses in the Midwest, if not the country. Whether you’re a novice or a pro player, there’s a course that’ll fit your needs. A few of the courses to choose from include Pointe Royale Golf course, which is newly renovated, Thousand Hills Golf Course, Branson Creek, Murder Rock Golf Course and LedgeStone Golf Course.

10) Sightseeing: There is a lot to see in Branson. Between the lights of the famous country music boulevard that is Hwy. 76 & the gorgeous Ozark Mountain scenery, you can spend a lot of your time just checking out the sights and enjoying the beautiful surroundings. Be sure to make time to soak it all in and enjoy the beauty that is Branson.

Duttons Add Luigi's Pizza Kitchen to Theater Complex

The Duttons have a new attraction at their theater – Luigi’s Pizza Kitchen! Opening in early April, the Luigi’s Pizza Kitchen will replace the Dutton Deli as the restaurant on-site. The restaurant will be full service and cater to all Branson guests. They will also be responsible for the free meal included with the popular Island Fire Show, which opened their third season on March 14th. With Luigi’s on site, the Dutton Hotel also expects guests to take advantage of the delicious menu items served daily.

Luigi’s Pizza Kitchen currently has two other locations in Branson, but this is their first location on the famous Hwy 76, otherwise known as Country Music Boulevard.

The Duttons will open their 2009 season on April 2, and they are promising an all-new show for the new season. With the talent they demonstrate each year, it is sure to be a tremendous production.

For Branson show schedules, reservations or additional information on Branson entertainment, contact ReserveBranson online or by phone at 1-800-590-0155.

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.

Duttons Christmas Show in Branson Delivers All New Show

If you asked just about anyone at the Dutton Theater about the new set design for the 2008 Christmas Show, you were answered with silence and a big smile.

“When the curtain came up for the Christmas segment of the show, we knew there was going to be a real ‘Wow,’” said Sheila Dutton.

Noted Hollywood special effects artist Rick Josephsen, who handled special effects for all three of the “High School Musical” blockbusters and nearly 40 other major films, has once again designed the sets and staging for a Dutton Show.

“Rick has been a great friend to our family,” said Judith Dutton, “and we are constantly amazed by his inventive and unique approach in transforming our stage. He has absolutely outdone himself for this year’s Christmas show and the audiences are in for a real treat.”

New shows and innovative set design are a tradition with the Duttons.

“Large portions of every audience are people who have seen us before,” said Judith Dutton. “As entertainers, we owe those fans new shows, new songs and new stage designs. Plus, Branson is the most competitive live entertainment market in the world and no one can afford to rest on their laurels. The audiences are too perceptive for that.”

The Dutton’s 2008 Christmas extravaganza, which has been in rehearsal since September, features lots of new routines, along with some old favorites. Hearts will be touched as grandpa Dean Dutton sings the “Christmas Cookie” song to his grandchildren cavorting around the stage as Christmas cookies.

Due to high demand from Dutton fans, Amy Dutton will bring back her mesmerizing vocalization of “The Gift.” And the younger generation will be well represented with a solo performance from 11-year-old Jessica Dutton, who has been amazing crowds this year with her strong voice and charismatic presence.

“This is the year of the 10,” Sheila Dutton said. “Branson has been named one of the top 10 Christmas destinations in the world. We were one of the top ten finalists on NBC’s “America’s Got Talent” show. And our 2008 Christmas Show is definitely a ‘10’ on the Richter scale of entertainment.”

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

Hot Winter Fun in Branson, MO

The holidays are over, and some of us could be fighting a case of the winter blues in the upcoming months. Branson's promoters say they could have the cure - a little fun!

It's a common misconception that everything is closed in Branson this time of year but there is still some "Hot Winter Fun" during the cold winter months.

Christmas and New Years have come and gone again, and the excitement of the holiday season is behind us, but that doesn't mean all the excitement in Branson is gone.

"We are growing our winter season," said Ross Summers, president of the Branson Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce and Convention and Visitors Bureau.

Summers says Branson used to have shows only between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Not long ago, most shows shut down from January through March.

"This is the time they take their vacations. A lot of them revamp their shows every year, put new sets in, and get new songs together," he said.

But now, more shows than ever are open during the season known as "Hot Winter Fun." A few of the theatres that remain open during the winter months include the Grand Country Music Hall, the Dutton Theatre, and the Jim Stafford Theatre.

A lot of the branson shows that are open for hot winter fun will be showcased in one big show at the Jim Stafford Theatre on Feb. 11. It will give folks a sampling of what Branson has to offer.

"It may be harder for a lot of these shows to stay closed in January and February because, as we get more and more people into town, there's revenue there," Ross said.

One big reason for more people in town is Branson's new convention center that just opened in August. Ross says the facility has dates booked into the next three or four years.

"People don't spend all their time at the convention center. They want to get out and see what's available in the local community and, obviously, Branson has more than most local communities," said Ross.

Besides all the entertainment, he encourages people to visit Branson's many museums, including Ripley's Believe it or Not, The Titanic, and the Ralph Foster Museum at College of the Ozarks, and, of course, all the places to shop and eat.

Information courtesy of KY3 News

Image courtesy of Branson Chamber of Commerce

"Island Fire" brings heat to the Dutton Theater

The 2007 entertainment season in Branson saw a new and unique show featuring 14 Samoan entertainers in Island Fire at the Dutton Theater. Audiences marveled at the authentic Island dance, song and fire knife performances set amidst a stage setting that recreated a Polynesian paradise.

As the Samoans prepare for their final performance of the year at the Dutton Theater on Thursday, December 6th at 2 PM, everyone in the troope was expressing gratitude for the open and friendly reception by the local community and tourists in Branson.

Although they are anxious to return home to Samoa to reunite with friends and family, they said that they will miss their many friends here in Branson. This had been their first trip to the United States and they unanimously feel that it has been a unique opportunity to expose thousands of people to their Samoan culture.

During the show's run, the local community actively embraced the Samoans. Many were invited to share meals with local families and go on excursions to shows and tourist attractions. One family even took some of them to see the Springfield Cardinals play -- their very first baseball experience.

Belle Dutton, the wife of Jonathan Dutton and a Samoan, said, "This has been a dream come true for me. I have always wanted our friends and fans to participate in the wonderful culture of Samoa – the island of the happy people. It has been a joy to have these talented young people share their lives with us for these past months. Plus they have been able to hone their talents and, in the course of promoting their show, learn new skills that will serve them well in the future in any career."

Sheila Dutton echoed Belle's sentiments and added, "The letters and emails that have streamed into our theater thanking us for bringing this amazing performance to Branson has been most gratifying. I know of several people who have made plans to visit the entertainers in Samoa during the next two months. What a wonderful bridge between cultures in a troubled world. We invite everyone to come for a fun-filled Thursday afternoon as we send them off with our love. And don't forget to come early for the luau, beginning at 12:30. It is free with each full priced ticket."

The Honorable Joe Keil, associate minister of Labor and Tourism and a member of parliament in Samoa, plans to be in attendance on Thursday. He is trying to make flight arrangements to stop in Branson on his way from Vienna to Samoa and released this statement: "The Samoan cultural dancers have had a great experience in Branson. I want to personally, and on behalf of my government, thank the Dutton family for their generosity and kindnesses to our young people. They have provided them a wonderful opportunity to share our beautiful islands with the world, and we look forward to a long and fulfilling relationship with the Duttons. We would also like to thank the community of Branson for embracing them and all the many tourists who came to see their show."

Iafata, Pacific Champion Fire-Knife Dancer, said, "Branson is a special place to me. The Duttons helped me and my wife have a traditional Samoan wedding here -- something we could not afford in Samoa. We feel like we are leaving family and look forward to our return in February. 'Tofa' and God bless."

Concerning Iafata's comment about February, Sheila Dutton told us, "The audience reaction to this show has been so great that the Samoans will be returning to Branson with a new show for the 2008 season. After spending the holidays with their families on Samoa, they will open "Hot Winter Fun" at the Dutton Theater on February 13th."

Holiday Shopping Guide for Branson, Missouri

Branson is a holiday shopper's paradise with three major outlet malls featuring more than 200 name brand shops. Hundreds of area boutique and specialty stores offer one-of-a-kind hand-made heirloom quality gift items. This season, one trip to Branson can fulfill all of your holiday shopping needs.

With so many places to shop in Branson, an Ozarks Shopping Guide can be helpful. The following is an overview of the great shopping found in the Ozarks.

Outlet Malls in Branson

• Tanger Outlet Mall: This outlet mall is home to many name brands, such as Tommy Hilfiger, Liz Claiborne, American Eagle, Gap, Aeropostale, Bath & Body Works, Banana Republic, Nike and more. With 65 name brand shops to choose from, Tanger Outlet makes your holiday shopping easy. The Mall is also located right on Highway 76, creating a convenient location for shoppers who want to experience the rest of Branson.

Helpful Hint: Tanger Mall will be open midnight of Thanksgiving day and will remain open until 9pm Friday, November 23. Coupons for the Tanger Mall are also available. Be sure to check out their after Christmas sales too!

• Factory Merchants Mall: This large mall is home to various stores, including Reebok, Nautica, Lane Bryant, Jones New York, Crocs, Famous Footwear, Carter’s, I love Quilt, Pfaltzgraff and more. The over 50 factory shops allow customers to get a bargain when the do their holiday shopping. They are also conveniently located on near several theaters, including Mickey Gilley, The Duttons and The Hughes Brothers.

Helpful Hint: Don't miss the biggest sale of the year at Factory Merchants Mall. Stores will offer additional savings off their everyday low outlet prices. There will be extended center hours and added savings for early shoppers. For Factory Merchants Mall sales information, click here!

• Factory Shoppes at Branson Meadows: This beautiful mall is home to shops and a movie theater. A few of the shops include Christian Gift Outlet, Golf USA, Hush Puppies, Tool Town USA, Vanity Fair Outlet and more. This mall is also close to the new Branson Mill Village.

Helpful Hint: Print the directory of the mall (click link) to receive FREE VIP coupons. Simply print and present at the Vanity Fair Outlet.

Malls

Branson Landing: 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, and a brilliant water and fire spectacular that dances to the sounds of the season in the Town Square. A few of the shops located at the Branson Landing include Bass Pro Shop, Belk Department Store, Charlotte Russe, Build-a-Bear, Ann Taylor, Coldwater Creek, Hollister, Cardinals Clubhouse, Journey’s and many, many more. A few of the eateries include Joe’s Crab Shack, Famous Dave’s Barbeque, Cantina Laredo and numerous specialty eateries like It’s A Wrap.Helpful Hint: Visit Santa at Branson Landing. Enjoy the magic of the season by visiting Santa in his very own Christmas Tree House located in Branson Landing’s Town Square. Pictures available. There is also a special Thanksgiving Day concert featuring the Blues Brothers from Legends in Concert and the musicians/singer from Take it to the Limit: A Tribute to the Eagles.

Specialty Shops

• Branson Mill Craft Village: The Branson Mill is a 60,000 square foot specialty retail shopping center and working craft village combined. It is comprised of 20,000 square feet of retail space including Mountain Man Nut and Fruit Company, The Leather Trading Company and Bandana’s Bar-B-Q Restaurant. The Branson Mill Craft Village is a working craft village with 40,000 square feet devoted to craftsmen demonstrating their skills in glass blowing, leather carving, china painting, oil painting, stained glass, wood carving, silversmith, scrimshaw, pottery, copper colorist, etched glass, custom framing, custom sign making and much much more. In addition to these fine artists demonstrating their skills, there are 150 showrooms of upscale home furnishings, accessories and crafts, with many one-of-a-kind items and best of all it is open to the public at no charge.

Helpful Hint: This craft village is close to Factory Shoppes of Branson Meadows, with easy access to Tanger Outlet Mall and Factory Merchants Mall. The Amish Country Store is right next door and Playtime Pizza (great for Kids) is right across the street.

• Engler Block: With 30 individually-owned shops, the Engler Block offers a whole world of the Ozarks craftsmanship and artistry under one roof. With artisans at work on their creations, Engler Block is more than a collection of stores; It is sight, touch and sound. A few of the shops include Helwig Art Glass, Fall Creek Pottery, Father Time Clocks, O’Neil Stained Glass, Sunrise Leather and more.

Helpful Hint: This shop is located near the Dixie Stampede and Dick Clark’s American Bandstand Theater, as well as the Haygoods.

• The Grand Village: Enjoy the talent of Thomas Kincade in his Signature Art Gallery and visit Missouri's largest Christmas Store, Kringles. The scenery is delightful with lovely paths and sparkling fountains all the way up to the restaurants. All of the shops in this complex are unique and offer the best of Branson's craftsmanship and souvenirs.

Helpful Hint: This village is right next door to the Grand Palace, which is showcasing The Christmas Sounds of Mannheim Steamroller. They also have a unique eatery, the Hard Luck Diner, where singing waiters and waitresses are the special.

Summer Sizzles in Branson!

Branson, Missouri is the perfect place to escape to for summer fun. This live entertainment capital is known for its great shows, but there are plenty of things to do in Branson, Missouri! The summer only adds to these great opportunities, because visitors can take advantage of the wonderful outdoor recreation found in the beautiful Ozarks.

Many families, couples and retirees travel to Branson each summer for a vacation that includes a little bit of everything. Branson’s history of fantastic shows began with the Baldknobbers, with the Presley’s following shortly after, and continues today with shows like Pierce Arrow, The Duttons, Grand Jubilee and the Branson Brothers. These fantastic country music shows highlight the best of yesterday and today, providing entertainment for those of all ages. Branson is more than just country music, though, and shows like Acrobats of China, Broadway!, Magnificent 7, Shoji Tabuchi and Kirby VanBurch prove it! There’s a great variety of shows in Branson, where everything from magic to comedy to Broadway is performed.

After visitors see a show, they love taking in the sights, either by walking, boating or even a duck! That’s right! At Ride the Ducks, visitors can take advantage of a WWII style amphibious vehicle that drives on both land and water. Riders can choose from the Branson entertainment district route, where you’ll cruise on Table Rock Lake, or from the Branson Landing District, where the Ducks will cruise on Lake Taneycomo. Either choice is a wonderful way to view Branson’s beauty and learn a few things about this wonderful vacation destination.

Other great ways to see the beauty of the Ozarks in Branson is by hiking or going to the lake for boating and swimming fun. Outdoor recreation in Branson includes water sports on gorgeous Table Rock Lake, including a swimming beach named Moonshine Beach, as well as scenic hikes through beautiful forest and lakeside areas. Two of the best areas for hiking opportunities include Henning State Forest and Lakeside Wilderness Area. Another great way to see the rolling hills of Branson is a trip to the top of Inspiration Tower. This scenic wonder is found on the Shepherd of the Hills grounds and on clear days, you can see for 90 miles. It truly is a breathtaking experience.

Of course, Branson attractions include several ways for guests to have fun in the sun. With three theme parks in Branson, there’s a park for every time of the day! Silver Dollar City celebrates the kid in all of us, with their National Kids Fest, and continues their tradition of thrilling coasters and water ride fun, with a dash of pioneering spirit mixed in for a unique experience. Celebration City is a night time park, complete with a carnival-like atmosphere and laser light show. Branson’s beach within reach, White Water, provides exciting rides like Kalani Towers, Lazy River and Caribbean Plunge. It’s a great place for families to enjoy summer fun in Branson!

The list of things to do in Branson is endless. Between great Branson shows, exciting Branson attractions and beautiful outdoor recreation opportunities, Branson truly is the place where you can do it all…one trip at a time!