Showboat Branson Belle offers Live Performers, Live Music and Great Food

Combining a high-energy live show, a three-course meal and a cruise on picturesque Table Rock Lake, the Showboat Branson Belle is a one-of-a-kind experience in America’s Heartland. The 700-seat authentic paddlewheeler takes passengers back in time to celebrate the beauty and grandeur of the 1890s paddlewheel riverboats. The cast of singers and dancers performs all-time favorites from Broadway to the Big Screen, along with Todd Oliver and his live talking dogs --- all setting sail March 20, 2009.

“The show Showstoppers! highlights some of the best music from the last six decades that has ‘stopped’ many a show,” said Jim Moeskau, Showboat Branson Belle General Manager. “With a world-class orchestra and quartet of singers and dancers, you can’t get this experience anywhere else in Branson.” Showstoppers! is featured on all lunch and dinner cruises.

Throughout the Broadway-style show, nearly 50 of the world’s most recognizable hits are performed from “Phantom of the Opera” to “Hairspray.” Created, choreographed and arranged specifically for the Showboat Branson Belle, this show is unlike any other. Evening cruises feature comedian and ventriloquist Todd Oliver and his cast of live talking dogs. Todd and his troupe have been featured on such national TV shows as The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, The Late Show with David Letterman and most recently The Today Show. Lunch and Sunday cruises present the award-winning comedic magician, Christopher James.

The Showboat Branson Belle galley crew enhances the experience by preparing each of the 3-course meals onboard. The dinner menu includes a main course of Admiral’s Choice Braised Beef in demi-glace sauce and Chicken Cordon Bleu. Both lunch and dinner are served with a house salad and the Showboat’s own Lemon Raspberry Torte dessert. The Paddle Wheel Club Room offers a more private dining area for small groups or couples for a special occasion. With this premium dining experience, guests dine overlooking the ship’s paddlewheels and select from a dinner menu including grilled Mahi Mahi with shrimp, Captain’s special-cut rib-eye steak, Caribbean stuffed chicken and a choice of desserts.

After dinner, guests are seated in prime seats in the main dining room for the show. Another option is the Captain’s Row where first row balcony guests enjoy the Showboat Branson Belle main dining room atmosphere while choosing from menu selections. Cruises sail from March 20 through New Year's Eve. All cruises run approximately two hours and 15 minutes, and begin at noon, 4:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. For Showboat Branson Belle Tickets, shop online at ReserveBranson.com or call 1-800-590-0155.

Information courtesy of Branson Chamber of Commerce

More Ways to Celebrate New Year's Eve in Branson

New Year's Eve Celebrations

50's At The Hop 2008 Rockin' New Year's Eve Party
Dec. 31
The Shoppes at Branson Meadows
Evening begins at 9 p.m. and includes the Fabulous 50's At The Hop Show, Heavy Hors d' oeuvres, Scrumptious Desserts, Party Favors, Noisemakers, Confetti, Balloons. At Midnight experience a 10,000 balloon drop & encore performance.

Acrobats of China celebration with the New Shanghai Circus
Dec. 31
New Shanghai Theatre
With traditional Chinese hor d’oeuvres, a sparkling non-alcoholic toast, party favors & hats, special Chinese souvenirs, a balloon drop, & more. 9 p.m.-midnight.

Ben Miller Band at Waxy O'Shea's New Year's Eve Hooley
Dec. 31
Waxy O'Shea's, Branson Landing
Beginning at 9 p.m., featuring The Ben Miller Band. www.waxyosheas.com

Branson Landing Cruises New Year's Eve Celebration
Dec. 31
Branson Landing Cruises
Evening begins at 8 p.m. on board with a half-hour of appetizers. The boat departs at 8:30 p.m. for a buffet, evening cruise dance and party DJ Sounds of Just One More Song. The New Year will be toasted in with a midnight champagne toast and party favors.

Chateau on the Lake New Year’s Eve’s gala hosted by the Titanic
Dec. 31
Chateau on the Lake
Fabulous food & the Gary Myers Band featuring Bucky & the Horn Dawgs. Begins at 7: 30 p.m. with a reception including hor d’oeuvres, dinner music & dancing. Fireworks just after midnight.

Dick Clark’s American Bandstand New Year’s Eve Celebration
Dec. 31
Dick Clark’s American Bandstand Theatre
Start at 7:30 p.m. in the lobby with special entertainment. Dinner & party favors included with the main show at 9:30 p.m.-midnight with Paul Revere & The Raiders & Bill Medley of the Righteous Brothers.

Dixie Stampede on New Year’s Eve
Dec. 31
Dixie Stampede
With activities the whole family will enjoy, two show times 5:30 p.m. & 8 p.m. include the opening show in the Carriage Room, the main show in the arena & a four-course dinner.

Ernie Biggs New Year's Eve Dueling Piano Show
Dec. 31
Ernie Biggs Dueling Piano Bar, Branson Landing
Beginning at 8 p.m.

New Year’s Eve at Grand Country Music Hall
Dec. 31
Grand Country Square
Special celebration 9 p.m.-midnight. The party atmosphere will include hor d‘oeuvres, favors, a balloon drop & a non-alcoholic toast.

Hughes Brothers Celebrate New Years Eve - Family Style!
Dec. 31
Hughes Brothers Theatre
Starting at 9pm to Midnight (dinner seating begins at 7pm). Games, Noisemakers, Free Snacks, Yummy Goodies & lots of laughs, plus spectacular entertainment by The Hughes Brothers.

Jim Stafford's New Year's Eve Show
Dec. 31
Jim Stafford Theater
Evening includes a fun-filled show, special entertainment, hor d’oeuvres, a sparkling non-alcoholic toast, party favors & hats, special keepsake gifts, a balloon drop, & more. The party starts at 9 p.m. & goes through midnight.

Keeter Center New Year's Eve
Dec. 31
The Keeter Center
Dinner seatings 4-8:30 p.m., Music and dancing 5-9 p.m. An evening of fine dining, music and dancing with The NYE Trio. A special menu by Chef Robert Stricklin. Call for reservations.

Kirby & Bambi VanBurch Magical New Year's Eve
Dec. 31
Kirby VanBurch Theatre
Evening includes fast-paced production, plus a box dinner, party favors & hats, a sparkling non-alcoholic toast, a balloon drop & more. 9 p.m. - midnight. www.kirbyvanburch.com

Legends In Concert Bring in the New Year
Dec. 31
Legends in Concert Family Theatre
Legends in Concert’s most fun and exciting New Year’s Eve party ever, Dec. 31, 2009! Our star studded line up for the evening includes: Alan Jackson, Tina Turner, Barry White, George Strait, The Blues Brothers and Elvis Presley. Regular seating $49.95, VIP seating $54.95. Prices include hot hors d’oeuvres, elegant desserts, seasonal beverages and party favors. Doors open at 8 pm. Show time and fun begins at 9:30.

The Magnificent Seven’s 8th Annual “New Year’s Eve Party”
Dec. 31
White House Theatre
Featuring The Magnificent New Year’s Eve Show, VIP and West Wing Buffets, spectacular 2000 Balloon Drop, Party Favors, Countdown to Midnight with our Live Band, and Midnight Toast! Dinner begins at 6:30pm, Show begins at 9pm. Tickets just $34.50 - $49.00 (depending on dinner option.) It is an evening of dinner, dancing, entertainment, and more!

Shake, Rattle & Roll in The New Year at the Owens Theater
Dec. 31
Owens Theater in historic downtown Branson
Begin at 9 p.m. with party favors, hor d’oeuvres & feature entertainment with Elvis & The Superstars.

New Year’s Eve with Pierce Arrow
Dec. 31
Pierce Arrow Theatre
9 p.m. with a mixture of fun, food & music. As the clock strikes 12, guests will bring in the New Year with party favors, games & a gourmet box lunch.

New Year’s Eve on the Showboat Branson Belle
Dec. 31
Showboat Branson Belle
Cruise starts at 8 p.m. with the regular dinner, cruise & show. Guests can slide over to the dance floor for dancing & fireworks will light up the sky, sparkling grape juice toast.

Information courtesy of Branson Chamber of Commerce

Showboat Branson Belle a Great Way to Cruise Branson

Do­ y­o­u e­n­j­o­y­ g­o­o­d fo­o­d an­d a g­o­o­d sho­ws p­ro­vide­d in­ a lux­urio­us se­t­t­in­g­? Sho­wb­o­at­ B­ran­so­n­ B­e­lle­ p­ro­vide­s all t­his while­ it­ cruise­s t­he­ wat­e­r o­ffe­rin­g­ vie­ws o­f t­he­ sp­e­ct­acular O­zark Mo­un­t­ain­s an­d t­he­ e­x­cit­in­g­ T­ab­le­ Ro­ck Lake­.

T­he­ fe­at­ure­d p­e­rfo­rme­rs o­ffe­r 30 award win­n­in­g­ n­umb­e­rs. T­his mult­i-t­ale­n­t­e­d cast­ will o­ffe­r so­me­t­hin­g­ fo­r e­ve­ry­o­n­e­. T­he­ p­ro­duct­io­n­ co­mp­an­y­ is Sho­wst­o­p­p­e­rs.

T­he­ laug­ht­e­r will n­e­ve­r e­n­d whe­n­ y­o­u se­e­ Sho­wb­o­at­
p­e­rfo­rme­r T­o­dd O­live­r. T­o­dd is a ve­n­t­rilo­quist­ an­d
co­me­dian­ t­hat­ has ap­p­e­are­d o­n­ t­e­le­visio­n­ o­n­ so­me­ g­re­at­ sho­ws like­ T­he­ T­o­n­ig­ht­ Sho­w wit­h J­ay­ Le­n­o­, Walke­r T­e­x­as Ran­g­e­r an­d P­e­n­n­ & T­e­lle­r Las Ve­g­as Sp­e­ct­acular an­d T­he­ Ho­wie­ Man­de­l Sho­w. T­o­dd’s crazy­ charact­e­rs in­clude­
t­alkin­g­ do­g­s, Lucy­, Irvin­g­ an­d E­lvis.

T­he­ Sho­wb­o­at­ B­ran­so­n­ B­e­lle­ is an­ e­x­ce­lle­n­t­ p­lace­ t­o­ ce­le­b­rat­e­ t­hat­ sp­e­cial o­ccasio­n­. B­rin­g­ t­he­ family­ o­r j­ust­ y­o­ur sp­o­use­ an­d e­n­j­o­y­ t­he­ co­n­n­e­ct­io­n­. If y­o­u’re­ p­lan­n­in­g­ t­o­ p­ro­p­o­se­ o­r ce­le­b­rat­e­ an­ an­n­ive­rsary­ t­he­ lux­ury­ o­f t­he­ B­ran­so­n­ B­e­lle­ will g­ive­ y­o­u t­he­ o­p­p­o­rt­un­it­y­ t­o­ do­ it­ rig­ht­.
Man­y­ p­e­o­p­le­ aske­d,”Ho­w b­ig­ is t­he­ rive­r b­o­at­? Can­ I b­rin­g­ a larg­e­ g­ro­up­?” T­he­ rive­rb­o­at­ has
t­hre­e­ le­ve­ls o­r de­cks. T­he­ t­he­at­e­r an­d din­in­g­ are­a has t­hre­e­ le­ve­ls t­hat­ have­ e­x­ce­lle­n­t­ n­e­ws o­f
t­he­ st­ag­e­. T­he­ lo­we­st­ le­ve­l o­r b­o­t­t­o­m de­ck is whe­re­ t­he­ e­n­g­in­e­ ro­o­m an­d kit­che­n­ are­ lo­cat­e­d.


T­he­ ve­ry­ t­o­p­ o­f t­he­ ship­ has o­n­e­ e­x­t­e­rio­r de­ck whe­re­ t­he­ whe­e­lho­use­ is lo­cat­e­d. T­his is 78 fe­e­t­ wide­ an­d 265 fe­e­t­ lo­n­g­ o­f p­ure­ fun­.

O­n­ce­ o­n­ b­o­ard t­he­ rive­rb­o­at­ y­o­u will have­ man­y­ o­p­p­o­rt­un­it­ie­s t­o­ wat­ch g­re­at­ sho­ws, vie­w t­he­ fab­ulo­us lan­dscap­e­s an­d samp­le­ t­he­ e­x­ce­lle­n­t­ fo­o­d.

As a p­asse­n­g­e­r o­f t­he­ sho­wb­o­at­ y­o­u can­ b­e­ co­n­fide­n­t­ t­hat­ all o­f y­o­ur n­e­e­ds will b­e­ me­t­. All cruise­s p­ro­vide­ an­ o­n­ b­o­ard E­MT­ fo­r an­y­ un­e­x­p­e­ct­e­d me­dical p­ro­b­le­ms t­hat­ may­ o­ccur.
If y­o­u o­r y­o­ur family­ has sp­e­cial n­e­e­ds fo­r whe­e­lchairs walke­rs o­r o­t­he­r assist­an­ce­ t­he­ B­ran­so­n­ B­e­lle­ o­ffe­rs co­mp­lime­n­t­ary­ whe­e­lchairs fro­m y­o­ur ve­hicle­ t­o­ y­o­ur t­ab­le­. All facilit­ie­s an­d
act­ivit­ie­s are­ acce­ssib­le­ t­o­ all in­dividuals.

Information courtesy of Arts & Entertainment Life Blog

Branson Vacation Packages Budget Friendly, Full of Fun

ReserveDirect offers some of the best ways to save on your Branson vacation. Their website, ReserveBranson.com, provides a reliable, secure and convenient way to reserve everything you need for your Branson vacation, including Branson vacation packages featuring everything from Silver Dollar City to Noah – The Musical.

The great things about the vacation packages we offer is that they are completely customizable to fit your needs. Our Silver Dollar City Branson Packages, for example, allow customers to choose from 1, 2, or 3 parks including Silver Dollar City, White Water and Celebration City and there are other add-ons, like tickets to the Dixie Stampede or Showboat Branson Belle, available for guests as well. The Silver Dollar City vacation packages allow guests to save 20 percent on overall costs and they are easily reserved online or by phone.

The other packages we feature are geared for a quick getaway or an extended stay if you wish. Because Branson is a short drive from so many destinations, it is an easy locale to reach for a quick weekend of fun. A few of our vacation offerings feature Jim Stafford, Yakov Smirnoff, The Titanic, Andy Williams and The Presleys. Plus, we also offer Stillwaters Resort and Welk Resort packages. The Stillwaters Resort packages include activities like the Dixie Stampede and Silver Dollar City, while the Welk Resort packages include shows like the Tillis Family Reunion, Rankin Brothers and Tony Orlando and the Lennon Sisters. These play and stay vacation packages are convenient, fun and easy on the budget too.

When you start to plan your Branson vacation, be sure to check in to see any new Branson vacation packages we have available. And, of course, on ReserveBranson.com, you can always create your own package perfectly customized to fit your schedule, preferences and pocket book.

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.

Todd Oliver and Irving to Appear on Today Show

America’s favorite morning show, NBC’s Today show, is inviting a couple of Branson’s biggest stars to join them live, on set, in New York, Monday, July 21st. Todd Oliver, comedian and ventriloquist for Showboat Branson Belle, along with his most famous talking dog, Irving, will appear on Today during the fourth hour, hosted by Hoda Kotb and Kathie Lee Gifford.

Locally, the fourth hour airs on KYTV at 10:00 a.m. CST. For the past 12 years, NBC’s Today show has been rated the #1 morning news program.

Todd Oliver and his trio of live talking dogs hail from Showboat Branson Belle, a 700-seat, authentic paddlewheeler that presents a fast-paced variety show, specialty foods and cruises on Table Rock Lake. Todd Oliver is the headliner of Showstoppers! which also features a live orchestra, and singers and dancers presenting memorable hits from Broadway to the big screen.
Todd is one of the most nationally-acclaimed Branson performers, having appeared on numerous national shows including The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, The Late Show with David Letterman and The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson.

Visitors to Showboat Branson Belle can visit with Todd and Irving as the cruise disembarks.

Branson, Missouri is the Place to Be for Summer Fun

The summer season is in full swing in Branson, Missouri, evident by the full line-up of entertainment, activities and perfect Branson summer weather. During the tough economic times many families are facing, Branson is reaching out to let visitors know they are not only visitor friendly but budget friendly as well. The great thing about Branson is there are a lot of sights to see and outdoor fun to pursue that is completely free! Now, there’s one word that’s music to everyone’s ears. Branson is also being proactive about helping visitors save money by offering stimulus check incentives, gas buster cards and other discounts throughout the area.

With the discounts available for visitors to Branson, guests can concentrate on the activities available in town and plan a great getaway trip. As always, Branson’s Silver Dollar City is a hot spot for families. This year, going to Silver Dollar City is even easier with the money-saving Silver Dollar City packages available. Plus, you can also get two days for the price of one at Silver Dollar City on ReserveBranson.com.

There are plenty of other exciting things happening in Branson this summer, including a variety of entertaining shows featuring everything from country music to rock ‘n roll. Branson, Missouri show schedules are filled with a multitude of performers and show times so it’s possible to see up to 3 shows a day if you’d like. Branson shows like Shoji Tabuchi, Dixie Stampede, Baldknobbers, Andy Williams, Showboat Branson Belle and Noah – The Musical sell out quickly, so making advanced reservations are recommended.

Attractions in Branson also provide a great way to pass those summer days. Many families venture to Celebration City after spending time at Silver Dollar City. Celebration City is the place to be after dark. The carnival-like atmosphere, coupled with rides, delicious food and an end-of-the-night fireworks show is a definite family pleaser. Ride the Ducks, a land and water cruise, is another Branson tradition popular with visitors. And, The Track is always a visitor favorite. With an unlimited Track Go-Card, the amount of fun you have is up to you!

When you travel to Branson, Missouri you’ll be happy to find a variety of lodging options available. There are discount Branson hotels, pet friendly Branson hotels and hotels in Branson with Internet Access, which means every option you might be searching for is here.

This summer, treat yourself to a vacation...Branson style!

Drive-to Destination Branson Offers Vacation Values

Whether vacation means a few days to get away, or a week off, the Silver Dollar City Attractions (SDC) rank as Branson, Missouri's most popular choices for families, a travel segment that shows marked increase to the drive-to destination, centrally located in the middle of the country. The SDC Attractions include the internationally-awarded 1880s theme park Silver Dollar City, the 20th Century themed amusement park Celebration City, White Water water park and the Showboat Branson Belle.

"Of the approximately 8 million visitors to Branson, families now represent 41% compared to 26% in 2005," said Jerry Henry, Research Director for SDC. "More families are discovering Branson's scope of entertainment, now more than ever with a keen eye toward packaging their experience."

With high gas prices, industry experts say travelers are actively seeking value, with more than half the nation's travelers now planning their vacations online. To answer the trend, Silver Dollar City Attractions are combining activities, bonus coupons, and lodging over the Internet.

"We're finding our guests want bundling tailored to the family's needs. Historically, in tough economic times such as gas price hikes, people will still drive to Branson, but they're looking for real value when they get here, without forfeiting quality," Henry said, noting SDC has added new kids' meal deals and merchandise/food discounts to online ticket packages.

To further attract families, Silver Dollar City presents its Biggest Kids Fest Ever with all-new nationally branded entertainment during the National Kids Fest, June 7th - August 10. The festival includes: The Magic of Peter Gossamer; the internationally-traveled performers of Ice Circus; the world debut of a VeggieTales stage show, "The Invention of Silliness" starring
America's favorite talking vegetables; and the PBS acclaimed "Kid Concoctions;" plus roller coasters, underground cave exploration, two dozen themed rides, crafts and shows.

Celebration City presents its biggest ride expansion ever: the water adventure ride Roaring Falls, taking riders on an Amazon-themed journey ending with a 5-story splash finale. White Water features 12 attractions, including Kalani Towers, a 7-story, 6-slide, multi-experience thrill ride. Showboat Branson Belle celebrates the beauty of the 1890s paddlewheel riverboats with a 3-course dinner, show and lake cruise.

Information courtesy of Silver Dollar City

Showboat Branson Belle Top Attraction for Branson Visitors

The Showboat Branson Belle in Branson, Missouri continually serves up great fun and delicious food. Here's an account from a true visitor, and their experience on Branson's Showboat Branson Belle Dinner Cruise:

We all exited the Showboat Branson Belle with the same question: "How does he make those dogs talk?”

That is Todd Oliver's trade secret, of course, but his Web site assures that it's approved and licensed by the people in Missouri who govern animal performing acts.
...
The singing and dancing are great, but those wise-cracking dogs steal the after-dinner show on the Showboat Branson Belle, a modern version of a 1890s paddlewheel riverboat that offers lunch and dinner cruises on Table Rock Lake.

Oliver is a ventriloquist who performs for the evening shows with his family pets, which he said were mostly adopted from shelters, and if you don't believe dogs can talk you'll just have to go see for yourself.

The evening cruise entertainment also includes Showstoppers, a Broadway-style act, and the Russian Adagio acrobatic dance team. Other acts including comedic magician Christopher James perform at noon.

We started our three-day Branson weekend on the showboat, which holds up to 720 guests and is a model of efficiency. Dinner is brought quickly to your table and you get two meat dishes for the price of your ticket, tender braised beef and chicken cordon blue. You also can ask for a vegetarian meal, or pay a bit more for club room seating with expanded menu choices. Children ages 4 to 11 get the cruise and a kid-friendly meal for half price. As with many Branson attractions, children 3 and younger are admitted free.

My family group included baby boomer grandparents, a 30-something son and granddaughters who are 3 and 11, and all of us enjoyed the food, the show and the scenery. White River Landing, from which the showboat sails, is easy to find and features ample free parking and a couple of nice gift shops. The cruise lasts two hours and 15 minutes and includes a video about the history of Branson and the building of the 278-foot long showboat, which was launched in 1995.

Information courtesy of The Oklahoman

The Other Spring Break is in Branson, Missouri

Spring Break is a great time to bring your family to Branson and enjoy one of the best times of the year at this premier vacation destination in the Ozark Mountains. Moms, Dads and kids will love to spend time together at the indoor water park located at Grand Country Inn, take in a giant-screen production at IMAX, get a chance to race each other at The Track on Go-Karts, play a round at 300+ holes of Mini Golf, Ride the Ducks on a fun, scenic tour of the lake, board the TITANIC -- World's Largest Museum Attraction, see the New Shanghai Circus Acrobats of China or visit the The Butterfly Palace & Rainforest Adventure, where you can walk among 1,000 live tropical butterflies from around the world. And don't forget to visit the caves -- Talking Rocks Cavern, Cosmic Cavern and Fantastic Caverns -- all good places to go during a spring shower!

Many of Branson's live performance venues introduce their new acts and new shows in the spring of each year, and 2008 offers an unprecedented variety of music, comedy, magic, acrobats, Broadway-style production shows and more. And if you are into golf, the area's newest course, Murder Rock Golf and Country Club, is ready for play. You can take your family for a hike along an Ozarks nature trail, or take a boat out on the lake and enjoy some of the best fishing this time of the year on Table Rock Lake, especially for lunker bass.

The award-winning theme park, Silver Dollar City, has Spring Break Days that run Thursdays through Sundays, March 20 -30, except Saturday, March 29. The park offers rides, attractions, crafts and entertainment. Hours are 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. each day (except Sunday, March 30 when the park opens at 9:00 a.m.), with a line-up of entertainment for kids and families wanting to make the most of spring break. The park will host singing groups from The Branson Brothers to the Sons of the Silver Dollar along with an interactive science show.

Silver Dollar City kicks off its biggest festival year ever on April 3 with World-Fest presenting an Irish Celebration with an all-new Irish production show, Feet of Fire, featuring a full cast of singers, dancers and musicians plus authentic fire dancing. Hundreds of performances from around the world celebrate the cultures and heritage of exotic lands.

Once a year, Branson packs a little bit of everything it has to offer into five fun-filled days with eight shows featuring world-class performers, local arts and culture, free shows in the Great American Entertainment tent and authentic Branson fare. BransonFest welcomes spring each year with a virtual smorgasbord of everything this amazing tourist destination has to offer -- and all in one location! Celebrating its 16th year, BransonFest 2008 is set for April 8-12 at Dick Clark's American Bandstand Theater complex.

The Showboat Branson Belle launches its season March 14, with cruises on select days in March. Headlined by ventriloquist Todd Oliver and his trio of live talking dogs, Branson's premier lake experience includes a 3-course dinner, a cruise on Table Rock Lake and a world-class production show, in the 700-seat theater aboard the paddlewheeler. Cruises begin March 14 and run Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays through March, with cruises at noon and 4 p.m., except March 24.

Information courtesy of Branson Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce Convention and Visitors Bureau

Ring in the New Year in Branson, MO

Planning a New Years Eve celebration for two or for the family? If you are planning on Branson, Missouri then you are in for a treat. From dining, dancing, shows, elegant lodging and New Years Eve festivities to ring in the New Year, Branson Missouri has it all.

The Grand Plaza Hotel is planning a New Year's celebration to remember. Dinner for two is offered at their Plaza View Restaurant with a choice of four mouth watering entrees. Dine on apple scented salmon, golden fried shrimp, chicken Mediterranean or prime rib. After a delicious feast one will be entertained by the Las Vegas Hall of Fame Performer Bob Anderson followed by dancing, party favors and a New Year's Eve toast from your own keepsake champagne glass. Double room occupancy packages at the Grand Plaza Hotel start out at $199.95 for the standard queen size to $269.95 for the honeymoon suite.

Branson, Missouri is known for its amazing shows. On December 31st, New Years Eve will be celebrated Dick Clark style. This incredible New Year's Eve Celebration Dick Clark Style featuring Fabian & Bobby Vee 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- 8p.m. Show tickets include: Party Favors & Hats, Cash Bar, Balloon Drop, and Champagne Toast at Midnight. Regular tickets can be purchased for $66.25 each or two tickets. If you also desire lodging right next door there is the Ramada Inn and Conference Center.

If family fun is on the agenda for New Years then Dolly Parton's Dixie Stampede Dinner and Show is a must see event. The show features the grace and elegance of gentlemen and belles from the South along with the feats of thirty two powerful horses. The children will be fascinated by racing ostriches and the whole family will enjoy the excitement brought to the arena by the feud between the North and the South. There is even a pre-show performance to whet everyone's appetite for the main event. Guests of this fun filled show will feast on a delectable four-course meal that includes southern favorites such as tender whole rotisserie chicken, home made biscuits, hot buttered corn on the cob and hickory smoked barbecued pork loin. This is a two hour show with two scheduled for December 31st. One begins at 5:30 p.m. and one at 8:00 p.m. Tickets are priced at $42.34 for adults and $22.34 for children 4 to 11. Dolly Parton's Dixie Stampede Dinner and Show is a favorite in the Branson circuit so buy your tickets early and most of all enjoy!

Another favorite Branson, Missouri experience is the Showboat Branson Belle. The boat cruises scenic Table Rock Lake and is known for its spectacular show performed in its own dinner theater. "Showstoppers!" entertains with award winning musical hits from Broadway with moving screens, projections and special effects. The live performance also includes the Showboat Branson Belle Quartet and emcee, the adagio dance team that blends both acrobatics and dance, all accompanied by a live band. This exciting show is followed by a delicious three course meal prepared on the Showboat's gallery. There will be a 4:00 p.m. show on December 31, 2006. The cruise lasts approximately two hours. Adult tickets are $50.00, tickets for children 4 to 11 are $25.00 and children 3 and under are free. A fond New Year's Eve memory can be had with a scenic boat cruise and show on the Branson Belle.

If you are looking for a more up-scale romantic New Year's Eve for two than look no further than Chateau on the Lake Resort, Spa and Convention Center. Be prepared to be pampered and awed by Branson's only AAA Four Diamond Resort. Chateau on the Lake's staff has an exceptional New Year's Eve planned that includes fine dining and live musical entertainment. At 7:00 p.m. the doors will open to a reception of mouth watering hor d'oeuvres. Each individual will be handed two drink tickets to use at the cash bar that can be accessed throughout the evening. At 8:00 p.m. a delectable feast of Filet Mignon and Fresh Atlantic Shrimp followed by a specialty dessert will be prepared by the finest chefs. The evenings entertainment will be the Gary Myer's Band who will perform R&B and hits of the 70's and 80's. The night will be capped off with a dazzling fireworks display and a ball drop at midnight.

Room Packages include admission for two to the party and accommodations for the night. For a double room the price is $399, an elegant king size room is $419, the over-sized chateau king outfitted with a sitting area and lake view is $454, and the Ambassador Suite with living room and wet bar is $509. What better way to ring in the New Year than to be treated like a king and queen at a AAA Four Diamond Resort? One can also get 25% off regular room rates by staying additional days. Branson Missouri is known for its shows and entertainment. New Year's Eve is no exception with a plethora of events to chose from. Choose Branson Missouri and you'll ring in 2007 with a memory that will last a lifetime.

Information courtesy of Associated Content

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

Getaway for Labor Day in Branson, MO

An escape to Branson, Missouri is the perfect way to celebrate the Labor Day holiday. With many Branson shows and Branson attractions at your fingertips, you’ll have little worries when it comes to what you’ll do in Branson. There are also several great outdoor activities in Branson that are still available due to the seasonably warm weather Branson has in September.

The Dixie Stampede is a family favorite and is a must see for anyone with an eye for showmanship and a stomach that’s hungry! The animals, fantastic dinner and amazing performers create a combination that’s fun for those of all ages. There are several other dinner shows in Branson, including the Magnificent 7 Dinner Show, Circle B Chuckwagon Dinner Show, Tall Timber Lumberjack Dinner Show and the Showboat Branson Belle. The stage shows in Branson offer a variety of options, ranging from classic country to rock ‘n roll to Broadway! There really is something for everyone in Branson, Missouri.

This Labor Day holiday you’ll want to catch performances of Take it to the Limit: Tribute to the Eagles, Shepherd of the Hills Outdoor Drama, Roy Rogers Jr. & the High Riders and the Original Stars at American Bandstand. These unique shows transport guests to a certain era; the prime of rock ‘roll, the early settler period of Branson, the Wild West and the hoppin’ 50s respectively. Comedy shows in Branson are also popular. Jim Stafford, the Comedy Jamboree, and the Baldknobbers are just a few to choose from. The Presleys’ Country Jubilee, Pierce Arrow and Mickey Gilley bring the country home, with hilarious bits of comedy thrown in for good measure. The number of shows in Branson gets bigger each year, so make room for all of the entertainment awaiting you!

When you stay in Branson, there are plenty of lodging options available. Prices range from bargain to luxury rates, with motels, hotels, cabins and condominiums among the lodging options in Branson. The Radisson Hotel, Pointe Royale Condominiums, Branson Towers Hotel, Quality Inn, Best Western Branson Inn and Stonebridge Cabins are just a handful of the places available to stay during your Labor Day Holiday.

You won’t want to miss the exciting attractions in Branson either. Silver Dollar City will be celebrating their Southern Gospel Picnic Festival, which includes a southern style feast and top performers in Southern Gospel music. Other popular attractions in Branson include Celebration City, a nighttime amusement park, Titanic Museum, Bodies: The Exhibition, The Track, Ride the Ducks and the Imax Entertainment Complex.

This Labor Day Holiday make time to relax, treat yourself to some amazing entertainment and soak up the sun in Branson, Missouri. You’ll be glad you did!