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.

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.

Celebrate the Summer & Father's Day in Branson this June

Branson is known for its family-friendly activities, and during the summer months there are even more fun things to do in Branson. The Branson theaters offer shows like the Acrobats of China, Jim Stafford and Dixie Stampede that bring exciting entertainment and hilarious comedy to the stage. Branson attractions like Silver Dollar City, White Water and Ride the Ducks are also a great way to experience Branson and see sights that are truly beautiful.

During June, there are several special events happening, including events that celebrate dear old dad. At the Titanic Museum, they are hosting a Titanic Father’s Day Boat Show on June 20 & 21. This free event will feature numerous boats including pontoon fishing boats by Tracker. A trip to the Titanic Museum might also float dad’s boat, so be sure to make time to tour the more than 400 artifacts located at the museum.

Other attraction Dad might like include the ’57 Heaven Museum, which showcases automobiles from 1957, complete with lifestyle exhibits to really bring the culture of ’57 home. Neal McCoy is also performing in Branson during the month of June and will showcase his Top 20 songs, such as “No Doubt About It,” “Wink,” “ The Shake,” and “Billy’s Got His Beer Goggles On.” If Dad is a big Beatles fan, then he’ll love The Liverpool Legends. Their two hour show pays tribute to The Beatles and is produced by Louise Harrison, the sister of George Harrison. If a taste of the islands is needed, head over to Island Fire at the Dutton Theater, where Samoans perform traditional dances and create fiery entertainment, all served with a delicious Polynesian inspired meal.

Golf in Branson is another way Dad’s are sure to have fun, as Branson is home to several world class golf courses. Whether he tees off at the extraordinary Branson Creek Golf Course or Murder Rock Golf Course, or sets his sights on the holes at Pointe Royale or Thousand Hills, there are plenty of ways for Dad to score a hole-in-one in Branson.

While visiting Branson, you’ll need a place to stay. Reserve Branson lodging now for the best savings and guaranteed lowest rates. Whether you are looking for a hotel, like 1st Inn Branson, or a condominium, like those offered at Still Waters Resort, Branson has something to fit your vacation needs.

November Events in Branson, MO

The Holiday Promenade of Stars
November 1, 2008
Times: 10:00 a.m.
Location: North end of Branson Landing by BELK Department Store
Grand Marshall again this year is Mr. Christmas, Andy Williams. Local radio personalities, Steve and Janet, from Branson's Hometown Radio KRZK 106.3, will host LIVE performances by Andy Williams, The Lennon Sisters, Bob Anderson, SIX, Jake Simpson, Jason Yeager, the cast of Country Tonite, and many other stars of music shows in Branson. As the promenade continues to move toward Bass Pro Shops, a second performance area will be hosted by Bob Nichols, host and comedian with Country Tonite, and Gene Bicknell, owner of The Mansion and the Oak Ridge Boys Theatre. Don't miss all the performances and appearances by Moe Bandy, Silver Dollar City, The Mansion and many more.

An Old Time Christmas at Silver Dollar City
November 1, 2008 - December 30, 2008
Times: Open Wednesdays thru Sundays. For more specific times refer to the website.
Location: Silver Dollar City
Admission: Call for more information
Come home for the holidays to An Old Time Christmas! 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!
That jolly, happy soul, Frosty The Snowman is coming to town in 2008! See him come to life in a self-titled All-NEW Show for the entire family.

Branson Area Festival of Lights
November 1, 2008 - December 31, 2008
Phone: 417-334-4084
Join the community wide celebration as all of Branson is aglow for the holidays. Special holiday shows, drive through light displays and spectacular shopping and dining provide all the reasons to celebrate the holidays in Branson. Contact the Branson Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce for more information.

Christmas at the White House
November 1, 2008 - December 31, 2008
Location: American Presidents Museum is located in the Old Majestic Steakhouse Bldg at 2849 Gretna
The American Presidents Museum will celebrate Christmas at the White House, a museum wide exhibit showcasing more than two dozens Christmas trees decorated to eras of history and themes of past First Ladies of the White House. Exhibit also includes White House Christmas Cards, White House Holiday Tour Books and much more. A must see addition to everyone's holiday traditions.

Christmas on the Titanic
November 1, 2008 - January 1, 2009
Location: The World's Largest Titanic Museum Attraction
Celebrate Christmas on the Titanic with Father Christmas. Very special days on the Titanic throughout the season.

Enchanted Forest Light Display
November 1, 2008 - December 31, 2008
Location: Indian Point Village
Phone: 417-338-2772

Ozark Mountain Christmas
November 1, 2008 - December 31, 2008

Shepherd of the Hills Trail of Lights
November 1, 2008 - December 31, 2008
Location: The Shepherd of the Hills Homestead
This 2-1/2 mile Christmas Adventure includes 3 dimensional mechanical displays with themed music and story lines. Once you drive onto the property untiil you leave, you will be in a wonderland that will bring back the magic of Christmas you had a a little child.

White Flight
November 1, 2008 - January 15, 2009
Location: The Butterfly Palace and Rainforest Adventure
Phone: 417-332-2231
Featuring white butterflies, twinkling lights and Christmas music!

Ride The Ducks Holiday Land & Light Tours
November 3, 2008 - December 14, 2008
Times: 5:30 & 6:30 p.m.
Location: Hwy. 76 Location
See the lights and tour the sights on this 60 minute adventure! Fully enclosed festive ducks with holiday music and a Santa hat for you to keep! Closed on Thanksgiving and December 8.

Military Appreciation Days & Veterans Day Room
November 5, 2008 - November 11, 2008
Location: Factory Merchants Branson
Phone: 417-335-6686
Show your military ID or veteran’s card in the Center Management Office (bldg 10) and receive special savings during the Veterans Homecoming Week. "FREE" Day Room at Factory Merchants Branson open 9:00 a.m. (0900 hrs.) to 6:00 p.m. (1800 hrs.), located next to Auntie Ann's Pretzels lower level. Refreshments and snacks available. A place to relax, visit, share your story with your buddies or bring your acoustic instruments and jam with other veterans. You never know who or what entertainers might show up to play, jam or just to visit!

Veterans Homecoming
November 5, 2008 - November 11, 2008
Phone: 417-337-8387
America's Largest Veterans Day Celebration, this seven-day tribute honors the veterans who have served as the stewards of freedom.

234th Marine Corps Ball
November 10, 2008
Times: 5:30 pm
Location: Chateau on the Lake, Branson, MO
Phone: 800-619-5708
Admission: $45.00 per person
Ceremonial Birthday Celebration, Dinner, Dance. Keynote Speaker - Lt. Col. Oliver North. Attire - Semi Formal. Hotel Reservations if needed 800-268-4014 ask for Russ. Tickets must be picked up no later than Sunday November 9, 2008. OPEN TO ALL MARINES, VETERANS & GENERAL PUBLIC.

74th Veterans Day Parade & Ceremony
November 11, 2008
Times: 11 a.m.
Location: Historic downtown Branson
Phone: 417-337-8387 , 417-334-2296
Sponsored by American Legion Post 220.

After-Thanksgiving Weekend Sale
November 28, 2008 - November 30, 2008
Times: Extended Hours for Friday, Nov 28: 7am-10pm; Extended Hours for Sat, Nov 29: 8am-10pm; Regular Hours for Sun, Nov 30: 9am-7pm
Location: Factory Merchants Branson
Phone: 417-335-6686
Join us for Early Bird shopping on Friday, Nov 28, beginning at 7am for extra special savings.

Information courtesy of Branson Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce

Silver Dollar City Encourages Travel By Offering Discount, Lodging Inclusive Vacation Packages

Silver Dollar City now offers families a complete vacation package, featuring all of Silver Dollar City’s properties and a variety of approved area lodging, thanks to reservation technology developed by ReserveDirect. The money-saving packages include Silver Dollar City, White Water, Celebration City, Showboat Branson Belle, Ride the Ducks and Dixie Stampede. The combination of Silver Dollar City's theme parks and shows along with lodging allow customers to book Branson vacation packages at a discount of up to twenty percent over purchasing the products individually.

While the all-inclusive design of the Silver Dollar City vacation packages allows customers to reserve park tickets, show tickets, and lodging while saving money, the ReserveDirect's reservation system permits them to get more for their money by choosing “add-ons” at discounted rates. These include the Dixie Stampede Dinner Show and a cruise on the Showboat Branson Belle.

Greg Craig, Internet Marketing Manager for Herschend Family Entertainment, owners and operators of Silver Dollar City attractions, said online conversion continues to improve as a result of providing user friendly packaging services to our customers. “Considering the record rainfall and current state of the economy, I’m very pleased with our results.”

John Johnson, President of ReserveDirect, added, "And with the stress of these shaky economic times and high gas prices, it's good to know people can still afford to take a vacation while saving some money. It's expensive to hop on a plane and go to Florida. But with our tool, you can spend a lot less to get here and have just as much fun."

ReserveDirect has been providing online reservation technology since 2001 with the launch of their first destination website for Branson Missouri vacations, ReserveBranson.com. In 2004, ReserveDirect also launched ReservePigeonForge.com and ReserveGatlinburg.com to service the Smoky Mountain family vacation destinations.

A St. Louis based company, ReserveDirect has provided similar solutions for lodging associations and destination marketing organizations in markets like Branson, Missouri; Eureka Springs, Arkansas; Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, Tennessee; and Orlando, Florida. ReserveDirect also operates its own consumer booking engines in each of these destinations, as well as services for Polk County, Florida, Table Rock Lake Area Chamber of Commerce, and Springfield, Missouri Convention and Visitors Bureau.

Branson Festival of Lights Duck Style

Ride The Ducks is a unique way to see the Branson Area Festival of Lights. The special tour runs through December 16, with Ride The Ducks offering 5:30 pm and 6:30 pm tours that include the Festival of Lights.

Duck Style is the fun way to see the lights! Ride through the Ozarks and the Festival of Lights while you Quack along with the Christmas music, all aboard our fully enclosed ducks in Branson, Missouri.

The 60-minute Holiday Light Adventure includes a fun-filled narration of the sites and sounds of the Ozarks. A special price of $15 for Adults and $8 for children 4-11 (plus tax) includes your entry into the Festival of Lights. (No splashdowns into the lake take place during these special adventures.)

Guests can choose their departure point. Adventures that depart from the duck dock at 2320 W Highway 76 will travel through Branson’s entertainment district before seeing the Festival of Lights. The Branson Landing location will ride through downtown Branson first.

Ride The Ducks will also continue to offer its unique land and water tours during the holiday season. From the Branson 76 location, guests can Ride to the top of Baird Mountain and enjoy incredible views of the Ozarks, Splash into Table Rock Lake for a fun cruise and Quack along with the captain as he tells his stories of Branson past and present. From the Branson Landing location, guests Ride through historic downtown Branson, Splash into Lake Taneycomo for a fun cruise and Quack along with the captain as he, too, tells his stories of Branson past and present. These tours run from 10am to 5pm daily from either location.

Ride The Ducks of Branson is the fun way to see the Ozarks. Operating for over 35 years, safely entertaining over 5,000,000 guests, Ride The Ducks is a Branson tradition. Ride The Ducks of Branson is a Silver Dollar City attraction.

Information courtesy of Branson Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce

CityHopper Getaway Package for Branson, MO

Branson, Missouri is a top family destination for many reasons. The wholesome entertainment and exciting outdoor fun create the perfect vacation atmosphere. Some of the most popular things to do in Branson are visit Silver Dollar City, White Water and Celebration City. These three great parks provide family fun in the sun, no matter what time of day it is. That’s why when they’re combined they make for the perfect family getaway. In order to provide our customers with the best vacation opportunities, ReserveDirect has partnered with Silver Dollar City for a one-of-a-kind Getaway Package.

The CityHopper Getaway Package is the best value for fun for your family. The CityHopper package allows families to receive unlimited admission to Silver Dollar City, Celebration City and White Water for up to 4 days! Families can choose between a 4 Days, 3 Parks, and 3 Nights lodging for a family of four or a 3 Day, 2 Parks, and 2 nights of lodging. The 4 day package price starts at only $599! The 3 Day package price starts at $419!

The Getaway Package also allows families to choose from several great Branson hotels, including the Chateau on the Lake, Grand Oaks Hotel, Radisson Hotel and Cascades Inn. After purchasing the package, guests also receive 50% off of adult admissions for the Showboat Branson Belle and can cruise on Ride the Ducks for only $10 a person!

The CityHopper Getaway Package is your families best value! A great vacation in Branson, Missouri begins with Silver Dollar City and ReserveDirect!