American Pyrotechnics Association Lights up the Skies over Branson, Sept. 25-26

The American Pyrotechnics Association (APA) makes its way to Branson, MO, this week to hold its annual meeting and convention. And what can you expect from the premier trade association of the fireworks industry holding its annual convention? Dazzling fireworks displays like none other where fireworks retailers, importers and suppliers from all over the world (U.S., Canada, Mexico, China, Italy, Australia, Spain, United Kingdom, Hong Kong and Japan) show off their latest wares.

Branson locals and visitors to Ozark Mountain Country can enjoy two wonderful evenings of fireworks displays produced by APA members. On Friday, Sept. 25, APA members will be firing up the sky at The Branson Landing waterfront shopping, dining and entertainment destination located in Historic Downtown Branson along beautiful Lake Taneycomo. The evening’s festivities will kick off at 8:00 p.m. with a LIVE Concert featuring performances by The Clay Cooper Country Express with special guest stars, Collin Raye, Barbara Fairchild, Roy Rogers, Jr. and the Liverpool Legends. At approximately 9:15 p.m., a beautifully orchestrated “close proximity” roof-top display and at approximately 10:15 p.m., a grand finale on the waterfront featuring a tribute to “Beatles Love” – followed by an unforgettable live performance from the Liverpool Legends – the Ultimate Beatles Tribute Show.

On Saturday, September 26, the APA will open its Trade Show to the general public (admission is free) from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Hilton Branson Convention Center. And the big signature showcase, the true convention fireworks finale, will occur on Saturday night at 9:45 p.m. at Moonshine Beach, fired over Table Rock Lake, in honor of the 50th Anniversary of the Table Rock dam. There is very limited parking available in the area and Missouri Dept. of Transportation (MODoT), MO Highway Patrol and the US Army Corps of Engineers will control the access and parking in the area. Alternate viewing locations include Combs Ferry Recreation Area at the end of JJ Hwy., Old Hwy. 86 access at the end of UU Hwy., and Indian Point.

For more information about the fireworks events, go to: www.ExploreBranson.com

Branson/Lakes Area Expecting Spectacular Fall Foliage Season

The trees and plants in the Ozarks area are gearing up for their big show, and all indications point to 2009 being a banner year for leaf watching. This summer was relatively mild, and ample rain has kept most trees green all year. Many people travel from around the country to watch the mountainsides, balds, glades and lakeshores transition from vibrant greens ... to yellows ... to oranges ... to reds, and then slough off their fall dress to make way for Christmastime.

Already, some dogwoods, sumac and sassafras are showing colors. The trees and plants typically begin to show their fall colors in late September, and "peak" foliage viewing is typically in late October and early November. Nature's "big show" is usually wrapping up about the time Branson celebrates Veterans Week.

The Branson/Lakes Area CVB is providing an online "2009 Foliage Meter" that gives a visual indication of fall's progress. The Missouri Department of Conservation also keeps an eye on leaves statewide and provides updates online.

Beautiful fall foliage can be seen practically everywhere in the Lakes Area, but new for 2009 we've put together several self-guided driving tours that take you to some of the most spectacular spots for leaf-gazing in the central United States. You can visit www.ExploreBranson.com/fall to print out free copies of these tours. Tours are meant to be taken at your own pace, but are estimated to take about 1-4 hours each.

The shortest tour takes you through Historic Downtown Branson on your way to Forsyth and sweeping views of Bull Shoals Lake and Lake Taneycomo. The longest tour is a two-state drive through southwest Missouri and north Arkansas, and includes a ride across Bull Shoals Lake on the area's only public ferry.

Branson Will Host 10,000th Family Reunion This Fall

Midwest Living magazine says Branson, Missouri, with its “music shows, Silver Dollar City theme park and lakes” is their top pick for lakeside family reunions. It’s clear that plenty of people agree as Branson will host its 10,000th family reunion this fall. There have no doubt been more family gatherings than 10,000, as this beautiful Ozark Mountain lakes area has been welcoming visitors for more than a century; however, Branson has only been tracking family reunion numbers since 1994.

The Branson/Lakes Area Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) receives many calls from families seeking help in planning their reunion. One such call came from Julie Koerkenmeier, who is planning her family’s reunion. The Koerkenmeier Family were originally from Tipton, Missouri, but now their family members live in Cincinnati, Kansas City, St. Louis, Los Angeles and Atlanta, among other places. More than 20 people from three generations will be gathering in Branson for their first whole family get-together in many years.

It used to be easy to get the whole family together as they typically lived within 50 miles of each other. Today, with many families living farther apart, finding a central location like Branson for a reunion is important. Located in the heart of America, Branson is an easy road trip for literally millions of people. In addition, low-cost flights to the new Branson Airport make it even easier for folks to come together in one of America’s best reunion spots.

As Midwest Living pointed out, Branson also has a wide range of lodging choices. Julie Koerkenmeier was surprised to hear that lodging choices included intimate lakeside cabins, rustic campsites, award-winning RV campgrounds, large condominiums, major chain hotels and luxurious world-class resorts.

And to keep the whole family having fun, there are many unique attractions just waiting for all those Koerkenmeiers to enjoy! “There’s so much to do,” Julie said, “and there’s time for everybody to get together for some things, then for people to go their own way for others. From seeing shows to visiting museums to playing on the lake to splashing in water parks, we’re all finding great things to do.”

“We’re all heading to Silver Dollar City one day,” Julie said, “and the family will go see Cathy Rigby in ‘Peter Pan’ at The Mansion.”

Another show attracting the extended family is Righteous Brother Bill Medley, with Paul Revere and the Raiders, performing at the Andy Williams Moon River Theatre. Julie said, “They love to hear Bill sing, because many of them were teenagers when The Righteous Brothers were the hottest duo in the country with ‘Lovin’ Feelin’.’”

Paul Revere points out that “Bill is a favorite with couples, because chances are they’ve danced to ‘Unchained Melody’ or ‘Time of My Life’ when they were falling in love.” While Bill Medley adds, “Kids love our show because Paul Revere is the Madman of Rock-n-Roll and they really like those outfits he and the Raiders wear… well, the gals do!”

The Ozarks’ natural beauty is also a big part of what people take into consideration when planning their family reunions here. Julie said, “Table Rock Lake is so much cleaner than the lakes we grew up around. All the family loves boating, swimming and fishing at Table Rock Lake, as well as on Lake Taneycomo.”

When price is a consideration, Branson won’t break the bank. “Branson is definitely a good value,” Julie pointed out, “especially compared to other cities.” On average, a family of five can stay four nights, see some live shows and enjoy several attractions for less than $1,200. Often, Branson’s lodging, shows, attractions, and restaurants offer special pricing for large groups.

Families aren’t the only groups enjoying reunions in Branson. Military groups, class reunions, car enthusiasts and other like-minded people get together in Branson. The Branson Convention and Visitors’ Bureau can help families (as well as other groups) plan reunions, plus provide welcome bags for members who attend.

For assistance in planning a reunion or for additional information about Branson’s more than 100 live shows, theme parks, lakes, golf courses, family attractions, shopping and other features, call the Branson/Lakes Area Convention and Visitors Bureau at 800-296-0463 or visit ExploreBranson.com

Chateau On The Lake Resort & Spa in Picturesque Ozarks Offering “Fall Foliage Package”

Chateau on the Lake Missouri’s picturesque Ozark Mountains have long been a draw for those seeking to view truly beautiful fall foliage. Featuring an impressive diversity of trees, the Ozarks enable you to take in a virtual cornucopia of colors. The area’s Red Oaks’ and White Oaks’ leaves produce vivid oranges and deep reds. The Blackgum tree complements with brilliant scarlet leaves, while the Sycamore contributes striking yellow and orange to the picture. The Hickory trees’ leaves turn a magnificent yellow, and the scenic red, orange, purple and yellow leaves of the Sweetgum tree add to the mix. Blend in the reddish-purple leaves of the Dogwood, and the blazing oranges and bright reds of the Sugar Maples, and you’re in for a true treat.

A very nice way to experience the season is by taking advantage of the “Fall Foliage Package” now being offered by the AAA Four-Diamond Chateau on the Lake Resort & Spa in Branson, Missouri. Situated on a beautiful Ozark mountaintop overlooking Missouri’s scenic Table Rock Lake, the resort is also just minutes from the many attractions and shows of popular Branson.

The “Fall Foliage Package” includes: two nights deluxe accommodations in a guest room elegantly decorated with French-country furnishings; $50 food credit at the resort, for use during the stay; use of the resort’s indoor pool, hot tub, and fitness facilities; and free indoor parking. In addition, the package includes 2-day passes for two adults and one child to the Silver Dollar City theme park, which features 17 thrilling rides and attractions, 50 shows per day, 60 unique shops and restaurants, and which will be celebrating “National Harvest Festival” with over 500 visiting craftsmen and musicians. The package starts at $510 per room, and is available through October 31, 2009, based on space availability. Tax and gratuities are additional.

For reservations or additional information, call 1-888-333-LAKE (5253) or (417) 334-1161, or visit www.ChateauOnTheLake.com