Sept. 21. 2009

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

Branson/Lakes Area Calendar of Events

August 15 - September 26
New Harmonies: Celebrating American Roots Music, a Smithsonian Institution traveling exhibition
Monday - Friday, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Saturday, Noon - 4 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 16, 1-4 p.m. Evenings & Sundays for groups by appointment.
The White River Valley Historical Society (WRVHS), in cooperation with the Missouri Humanities Council, will explore aspects of America’s roots music as it hosts the local showing of New Harmonies: Celebrating American Roots Music, a Smithsonian Institution traveling exhibition. Free events, times, dates and locations include: Opening Night Concert with BIG SMITH and Blues by Pokey LaFarge. Sunday, Aug. 16, 4 p.m. Shadowrock Park, Forsyth. Gospel Gathering with some of the Ozarks’ best gospel groups. Sunday, Aug. 23, 2 p.m., First Presbyterian Church, Branson. Music at the Cabin: Celtic, British and American Ballads from Nancy Walker and Mike Micham. Judy Domeny and The Stringfield Band. Saturday, Aug. 29, 7 p.m., The Log Cabin at Shadowrock Park, Forsyth. Pickin’ Party: Old Time Jam Session & Potluck. Friday, Sept. 4, 6:30 p.m., The Taney Center, Forsyth. WRVHS Quarterly Meeting & 3rd Annual Ice Cream Social. Native American Music: Sunday, Sept. 13, 1 p.m., The Taney Center, Forsyth. Weekly free “brown bag” lunchtime events at the Museum include: “Get Downtown” free lunchtime concerts, Each Thursday, noon, WRVHS Museum. Kids Konnection each Tuesday, noon, Museum. Lunch & Learn music programming for adults, each Wednesday, noon, Museum. Karaoke 4 Kids, each Saturday, 1-4 p.m., Museum. New Harmonies events culminate in the only ticketed event of the series, the Second Annual Shadowrock Jubilee featuring a variety of bands - The Best of Roots Music. Tickets will cost $8 in advance at the museum and $10 at the gate. The Jubilee will be held Saturday, Sept. 26, at 4 p.m., in Shadowrock Park, Forsyth. Information about the “new Harmonies exhibit, activities and events can be obtained by calling the White River Valley Historical Society and Museum. New Harmonies: Celebrating American Roots Music is part of Museum on Main Street, a unique collaboration between the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service (SITES), state humanities councils across the nation, and local host institutions. More information about New Harmonies and other Museum on Main Street exhibitions can be found at www.museumonmainstreet.org.

September 12 - October 31
National Harvest Festival
Open Wed.-Sun. 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat. 9 a.m.-7 p.m.; closed Sept. 8-10, Nov. 1-6
The Home of American Craftsmanship, Silver Dollar City welcomes over 100 visiting craftsmen, over 400 of the nation’s finest musicians.

September 23 - September 27
Chrysler 300 Club

September 25 - September 27
American Pyrotechnic Association Annual Convention
Dusk
Branson area visitors will have a chance to see two spectacular fireworks displays in the skies on two evenings: Friday – September 25th at Branson Landing (with a great concert) and Saturday – September 26th at Moonshine Beach on Table Rock Lake. This is thanks to the American Pyrotechnics Association’s convention, which is in town that weekend. This is your opportunity to experience an unforgettable, Close Proximity Fireworks Showcase Extravaganza – one of the largest displays that Branson has ever seen! This Fireworks Spectacular will impress all with its stunning effects and tons of WOW Power – all choreographed to an incredible music set list - provided and produced by members of the American Pyrotechnics Association.

Star Party
Friday, September 25, 5-8 p.m.
Continue to celebrate International Year of Astronomy 2009 with Discovery Center and Springfield Astronomical Society. Discovery Center wants 150,000 individuals to look at the world through a telescope. Join us for a chance to look through a telescope. More information check the website at www.discoverycenter.org or call 862-9910. Sponsored by Jon Morse, Merrill Lynch.

September 25 - September 27
SkySchool
Hands-on astronomy classes for both students and teachers! Three days of a variety of learning experiences designed to help both teachers and students explore astronomy topics, content and resources.

BRANSON LANDING'S CONCERT SERIES GRAND FINALE WITH CLAY COOPER & SPECIAL GUEST STARS!
Friday, September 25, 8 p.m.
Clay Cooper & The Clay Cooper Music Express Band with Special GUEST STARS, Collin Raye, Barbara Fairchild and More! Following the Concert that evening, The American Pyrotechnics Association’s FIREWORKS Spectacular will light up the night with an amazing Fireworks Finale in Branson Landing’s Town Square.

Oktoberfest
Saturday, September 26

Hollister Grape & Fall Festival
Saturday, September 26
Come and enjoy food, stage entertainment, crafts, and lots of fun activities in beautiful historic Hollister. Great for the whole family!

Harvest Moon Festival and Car Show
Saturday, October 3

"Landing to Landing" Canoe and Kayak Race and Fun Paddle
Saturday, October 3, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Ozarks and Bass Pro’s Outdoor Fitness Festival present: 5k canoe & kayak races for adventure enthusiasts 5k canoe & kayak fun paddle for recreationalists $40 Entry Fee per Person CASH prices for eight different race division winners FREE performance shirt FREE lunch at Branson Landing FREE transportation (Ride the Ducks) to race start point following post-race awards ceremony For details and registration, log on to basspro.com/fitness

Red Hat Day At Branson Landing!
Saturday, October 3, 10 a.m.
Members of the Red Hat Society will be visiting the Branson Landing on Saturday, October 3rd for a very special Red Hat Day Parade and Ceremony. Kicking off the festivities In celebration of Red Hat Day will be the parade departing at 10 am from the North Parking Lot by BELK. The parade will proceed down the Branson Landing Promenade to Town Square - followed by a special presentation and ceremony at 10:30am in front of the beautiful Branson Landing Fountains.Mark your calendars, because you don’t want to miss special guest appearances, awards, door prizes AND the unforgettable performance by The Branson Divas. You will get a kick out of these three long-time friends and "Branson Stage Veterans", starring Janice Copeland (formerly with Ray Stevens), Cindi Barr and Michele Sevryn. For more information on the Branson Divas, visit www.bransondivas.com.Join us for unforgettable Red Hat Day FUN at Branson Landing on Saturday, October 3rd. The Red Hat Society is a social organization where there is fun after fifty (and before) for women of all walks of life!

Ozarks Teen Challenge Motorcycle Ride 2009
Saturday, October 3
Ozarks Teen Challenge will host its first motorcycle ride on Saturday, October 3 to benefit the 15-month residential program for boys ages 12 to 17 struggling with addictions and other life-controlling issues. The 70-mile ride will begin at Cruisin' 66 Cycles on Glenstone in Springfield at 9:30 a.m. with Krispy Kreme doughnuts and coffee and will end at the Ozarks Teen Challenge campus in Branson West via Scenic Highway 125. The event, sponsored by Best Western Branson Inn and Conference Center next to Silver Dollar City and Chateau on the Lake, will feature live music, games and giveaways from several area businesses, including a “Branson Get-Away” package featuring two nights at Chateau on the Lake and dinner at Bleu Olive. Lunch of beef brisket and pulled pork sandwiches will be provided, as well as a commemorative t-shirt. Those who do not ride can buy lunch for $5 and t-shirts will be available for purchase as well. All proceeds will benefit Ozarks Teen Challenge.

October 3 - October 4
Red Hat Society Weekend
Factory Merchants Branson invites all Red Hat Society members to visit the Center Management Office (located in the lower level of building 10) for refreshments, special offers, door prizes and gift bags for the first 25 red hatters. Just look for the red roofs!

October 9 - October 11
2nd Annual Woodcarving Event to Honor Titanic’s German Passengers and Crew
With chainsaws at the ready, professional wood carvers from across the nation will send chips flying and spirits soaring when they again compete in a three-day woodcarving competition. Events will take place in Titanic’s parking area from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday and from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. A special 75-minute chainsaw speed-carving contest delivers one of the shows many nail-biting moments. This special annual family event is in memory of the German passengers and crew who were aboard Titanic. It’s free and held in association with LogHoggers Chainsaw Sculpting.

October 9 - October 12
Columbus Day Sidewalk Sale
Are you ready for fall weather? Stock up on all the latest fall fashions at the annual Columbus Day Sidewalk Sale at Factory Merchants Branson featuring such fine stores as Pendleton, Jones New York, Limited Editions For Her and many more! Just look for the red roofs!

Alzheimer’s Association Early Stage Education and Support Class
Tuesday, October 13, 4:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Alzheimer’s Association, Southwest Missouri Chapter These classes are designed to: Acknowledge feelings and provide an opportunity to talk and ask questions. Refer the individual and the family to an Alzheimer’s Association support group. Assess for depression. Short-term counseling and appropriate referrals may be helpful in some cases. Refer families to a physician knowledgeable in dementia for evaluation and treatment. Encourage the diagnosed individual and the caregiver to take care of his or her physical and mental health. Light refreshments will be served.

October 17 - October 18
Titanic Princess Tea Parties, Part II
The scene will be set for the second round of magical Titanic Princess Tea Parties. Beautiful tables will be dressed all in pink and set in silver, awaiting the arrival of newly crowned princesses who’ve come from near and far to experience this time-honored ritual. A one-hour crash course in proper etiquette, manners and style will be followed by a tea-pouring ceremony and a personal tour of the Titanic Museum Attraction.

Area '57 Cruise In & Free Drive-In Movie Night
Saturday, October 17
Presented by Heartbeat of the Ozarks Car Club - Bring out your classic car and have a great night under the stars!

50 Plus Shopper Perks Open House
Tuesday, October 20
Are you 50 years young or better? Tues, Oct 20, Factory Merchants Branson will host a 50 Plus Shopper Perks Open House. Visit the Center Management Office (located in the lower level of building 10) for refreshments, special discounts and gift bags for the first 25. Just look for the red roofs!

Alzheimer’s Association Early Stage Education and Support Classes
Tuesday, October 20, 4:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Alzheimer’s Association, Southwest Missouri Chapter These classes are designed to: Acknowledge feelings and provide an opportunity to talk and ask questions. Refer the individual and the family to an Alzheimer’s Association support group. Assess for depression. Short-term counseling and appropriate referrals may be helpful in some cases. Refer families to a physician knowledgeable in dementia for evaluation and treatment. Encourage the diagnosed individual and the caregiver to take care of his or her physical and mental health. Light refreshments will be served.

October 23 - October 24
’57 Heaven Museum Auction
Preview: Friday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Auction: Saturday 11 a.m.

October 23 - October 24
Branson Wine Weekend Getaway
This event weekend package includes a shuttle tour of five local wineries and wine boutiques, multiple tastings of wine from Missouri and the world, full service gourmet lunch (Sat.) and breakfast (Sat. & Sun.), Wine-tasting 101 Presentation, 2 nights at Howard Johnson Branson Hotel, and a free wine gift basket to first 10 reservations. Stops on the tour include Branson locations of familiar mid-Missouri wineries Stone Hill and Mount Pleasant, as well as newcomers Branson Ridge Winery, Lindwedel Wine Garden and downtown merchant Palate Wine and Provisions. For more information contact Howard Johnson Hotel Branson at 888-336-3212 or visit www.hojobranson.com/packages.

Ozark Mountain Monopoly First Annual Tournament
Saturday, October 24, 9 a.m.
WIN PRIZES! HAVE FUN! SPONSORSHIPS ARE AVAILABLE!

Masquerade Dinner Party & The Mummy’s Curse
Friday, October 30, 6-10 p.m.
Titanic will shroud itself in myth and mystery during the museum attraction’s first Halloween Masquerade, a progressive dinner party held on board Titanic the night before All Hallows Eve. In keeping with the spirit of the evening, all crew members will wear wildly decorated Italian masks. Dinner guests are encouraged to arrive in masks, as well. During a moveable feast through the museum, we’ll reveal strange tales and unexplainable phenomena that haunt Titanic to this day ? like the much-repeated and still-believed story that the ship was cursed by an Egyptian mummy supposedly shipped to New York aboard Titanic. Dinner will be catered by Touch? of Springfield and is priced at $60 per person. Advance reservations are required.

October 30 - October 31
Ford Falcon Regional Meet

October 30 - October 31
Tell me a DeadTime Story: Ghost Stories of the Ozarks
11 p.m. each night
Tell me a DeadTime Story: Ghost Stories of the Ozarks is just frightening enough for the whole family to enjoy. Join us in one frightened little girl’s bedroom, as she is joined by the Tale Tellers -- Vagabond Company members and some of the finest actors from all over the Branson Theatre circuit -- each one spinning a yarn of ghostly Missouri legend… complete with nightmares for all. LOCATION: The Vagabond Stage Company 1301 E Hwy 76 Branson, MO 65616

Halloween Walk and Boo Bash
Saturday, October 31

Safe Street Trick Or Treat At The Branson Landing
Saturday, October 31
Calling all ghosts, goblins, pirates and princesses. It’s your turn to Trick or Treat up and down Branson Landing’s Trick or Treat Street!This will be the 3rd Annual Safe Street Trick or Treat for Branson Landing merchants to participate in on Saturday, October 31st. This safe Halloween alternative is exclusively for children in costume up to age 12. Look for the Halloween Signs in the windows of participating businesses, located up and down the Branson Landing Promenade.

Hollister Halloween Walk and BOO Bash
Saturday, October 31
Children of all ages are invited to participate in the Annual Hollister Halloween Walk and BOO Bash. Costume contest, hayride, haunted house and more!

Trick Or Treat Off The Street
Saturday, October 31
All children (10 and under) and their parents are invited. All participating stores will have a smiling pumpkin on the door. Just look for the red roofs on Halloween!

Thousand Shrills Golf Classic
Saturday, October 31, 9:00 Shotgun Start
2-person Scramble Format Each player will receive one Titleist Pro-V1 sleeve 4-Flights, 3-Places/flight (based on participation) Flag Prizes Each winning team member will receive the following: 1st Place each flight wins 4-GW set of Cobra SZ irons 2nd Place each flight wins a Cobra GT carry bag 3rd Place each flight wins a Titleist Vokey Wedge

Halloween Splash Bash
Saturday, October 31, 2 p.m. - 5 p.m.
Join us for a SPLASHTACULAR time and enjoy our Indoor Waterpark! HALLOWEEN NIGHT, 2:00PM - 5:00PM. Check-In Treat Bag for each Child (0-12 years old). Games with Prizes; Arts & Crafts; Costume Parade

November 1 - December 31
Shepherd of the Hills Trail of Lights
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.

November 1 - January 2
Branson Area Festival of Lights
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. Included is the Branson Area Festival of Lights Drive-Though Display, more than 1 mile of Christmas lights on display.

November 1 - December 31
Ozark Mountain Christmas

November 1 - December 30
2009 Christmas Light Tours
6-8 pm or 8:30-10:30 pm
Make this season a memorable one for you, your family, friends, or a company Christmas party. Celebrate with a Christmas light tour of beautiful Branson! Sit back and enjoy some sparkling cider while listening to your favorite Christmas music in one of our warm and luxurious limousines. Tour includes a tuxedoed chauffeur, refreshments: non-alcoholic champagne or bottled water and candy canes. Basic tour includes: “The Strip (76 Country Blvd.)”, Historic Downtown Branson, Branson Landing Blvd. (Belk’s to Bass Pro Shop), Downtown Hilton Convention Center, pass Shepherd of the Hills & Inspiration Tower, Entrance to Silver Dollar City, Indian Point Enchanted Forrest, Branson Chamber of Commerce “Festival of Lights." Prices are for a two-hour tour, (6-8pm or 8:30-10:30pm) The price does not include a gratuity. 4 Passenger Luxury Sedan - $125.00 10 Passenger SuperStretch Limousine (Comfortably seats 8 adults) - $225.00 24 Passenger Shuttle Bus - $360.00

November 1 - January 15
White Flight at The Butterfly Palace
9 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily
Thousands of white butterflies flutter like living snowflakes amid a rainforest sparkling with thousands of twinkling lights . . while fantastic holiday music fills your soul. Simply unforgettable! Back for the 2009 holidays - Living Statues! These breathtaking angels will amaze you with their quiet beauty and joyful peace . . and will stun you when they suddenly come to life! Each self-guided holiday journey also includes a 3-D movie about butterflies, a sneak peek at some amazing creatures inside the Living Rainforest Science Center, and a chance to get lost inside the Emerald Forest Mirror Maze.

November 2 - December 13
Ride the Ducks Holiday Light Tour
5:30 and 6:30 pm
We will not tour on Thanksgiving and December 7.

November 5 - November 11
Veterans Homecoming - Branson Veterans Task Force
America’s Largest Veterans Day Celebration, this seven-day tribute honors the veterans who have served as the stewards of freedom. Some of the many Veteran's Week events include: Thursday, Nov. 5 10 a.m. - Free Ceremony for the Traveling Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall at Welk Theater 2 p.m. - Opening Ceremonies at Mansion Theater 8 - 10:30 p.m. - The Showboat Branson Belle salutes the Veterans with a special show and dinner Friday, Nov. 6 8 a.m. - Memorial Service at Welk Theater 2 - 5 p.m. - WWII Veterans Mini Reunion at the Keeter Center, College of the Ozarks Saturday, Nov. 7 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. - Iraq, Afghanistan, Persian Gulf War Veterans Mini Reunion at the Tri-Lakes Center 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. - General Tommy Franks Leadership Institute and Museum Road Show Sunday, Nov. 8 9 am - Noon - Veterans Shoot for the outdoor enthusiasts, Ozark Shooters Sports Complex 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. - General Tommy Franks Leadership Institute and Museum Road Show 10 a.m. - Missouri Fallen Heroes Memorial Ceremony at the Starlite Theater 2 p.m. - #1 Hits of the 60's show at the Caravelle Theater to benefit the Branson Veterans Task Force 5 p.m. - Military Gala and Banquet at Chateau on the Lake Resort and Spa 6 p.m. - Candlelight Military Memorial Service at Skyline Baptist Church Monday, Nov. 9 2 p.m. - 5 p.m. - Vietnam Veterans Mini Reunion at Charlie's Steak, Ribs & Ale 6 p.m. - Women Veterans Mini Reunion at the Starlite Theater 8 pm - Rankin Brothers Show, free to all veterans, $22.50 for non-veterans Tuesday, Nov. 10 9 a.m. - Noon - Korean War Veterans Association Mini-Reunion at the Stone Castle Hotel & Conference Center 10 a.m. - Lt. Col. Oliver North book signing at Bass Pro Shops, Branson Landing 10:30 a.m. - Woman's Veterans Rose Petal Ceremony to honor women veterans who have died, Keeter Center at College of the Ozarks 11:30 a.m. - Rose Petal Lunch, Keeter Center at College of the Ozarks 2 p.m. - Free outdoor concert by the USAF Band of Mid-America from Scott AFB, IL. at Factory Merchants Branson lower courtyard 5 p.m. - 234th Marine Corps Birthday Ball at the Branson Convention Center featuring Lt. Col. Oliver North Wednesday, Nov. 11 (Veterans Day) 8 - 10 a.m. - Breakfast with Lt. Col. Oliver North at Tri-Lakes Center 9 a.m. - USAF Band of Mid-America performing at the Branson Landing Town Square prior to the Veterans Day parade 11 a.m. - 76th annual Veterans Day Parade sponsored by the American Legion Post 220 through downtown Branson Noon - VIP luncheon with Lt. Col. Oliver North at Chateau on the Lake 1 p.m. - Branson Veterans Task Force Closing Ceremonies at the Starlite Theater 2 p.m. - Tony Orlando’s Veterans Show at Welk Theatre For more information about Veterans Homecoming Week, visit www.bransonveterans.com or ExploreBranson.com

It's "Winter Wonderlanding" At The Branson Landing, featuring the Twelve Irish Tenors and the Spirit of Christmas Shows
Thursday, November 5, 5:30 p.m.
Branson Landing is excited to kick off the holiday season this year with a spectacular “Winter WonderLanding” event in Town Square - featuring a very special holiday show produced by our friends from The Branson Variety Theatre. This amazing production will feature the Twelve Irish Tenors AND the amazing cast of singers and dancers from the Spirit of Christmas Show. This Spectacular Event promises to kick the holiday season off in Grand Style, with an evening full of unforgettable holiday magic and all of those favorite holiday classics like Rudolf the Red Nosed Reindeer, Let it Snow, Frosty the Snow Man, White Christmas, Jingle Bell Rock and many, many more. This production is sure to “Light Up” the faces of the young and young at heart, as well as the HUGE Christmas Tree in Branson Landing’s Town Square. With all of this holiday cheer in the air, you can count on the arrival of Santa and… possibly another surprise or two! So…be sure to mark your calendars and join us in Branson Landing’s Town Square on Thursday, November 5th at 5:30 PM for an amazing evening full of Holiday Cheer, Music, Lights, Santa, Surprises and More! For more information on the Twelve Irish Tenors and the Spirit of Christmas Shows this holiday season at the Branson Variety Theater, please visit www.bransonvarietytheatre.com.

November 5 - December 24
Santa Claus at Town Square in Branson Landing
Check website for specific times
Santa Claus is coming to town - Branson Landing’s Town Square that is! Don’t miss your chance to visit Santa Claus in his very own 50-foot Christmas TreeHouse, complete with a cozy fireplace, holiday cheer and memorable photo opportunities. Visit the Branson Landing Website to view Santa’s 2009 Schedule at Branson Landing. Mark your calendars and be sure to join us as we welcome Santa Claus back to Branson Landing this holiday season with a very special Santa Arrival and Tree Lighting Ceremony produced in conjunction with our friends – The Twelve Irish Tenors and The Spirit of Christmas Dancers from the Branson Variety Theater. It’s Winter WonderLanding at Branson Landing and it kicks off on Thursday, November 5th! HO…HO…HO…