November 2009

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"Most Wonderful Time Of The Year" Underway in Branson

Christmas comes early in the Live Music Show Capital of America and, beginning November 1, Branson celebrates Ozark Mountain Christmas. Like Andy Williams says, “For many visitors to Branson, it’s the most wonderful time of the year!”

With lots of star-filled Christmas shows and a glittering array of animated lighting displays, including the one-mile Branson Area Festival of Lights drive-through, a trip 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. In addition to Andy Williams, Christmas favorites include the Lennon Sisters with Tony Orlando, Debby Boone and Cathy Rigby as Peter Pan. There’s a multitude of shows that deck the halls and showcase Branson’s finest talent.

Music fills the air at Branson’s family shows like the Presleys, The Baldknobbers, and the Hughes Brothers. Peals of laughter roll through the aisles at Jim Stafford, Hamner-Barber and Yakov Smirnoff’s shows. Broadway’s Spirit of Christmas, Dino’s Christmas Extravaganza and The Osmonds wrap it up with musical packages of one-of-a-kind holiday family fun.

Here is a sampling of what Ozark Mountain Christmas in Branson also has to offer:

Silver Dollar City celebrates with An Old Time Christmas, ranked as one of the world’s top holiday events by CNN.com, and one of the nation’s top celebrations by USA Today, Good Morning America and The Travel Channel. The 1880’s themed park dazzles with a highly acclaimed five-story special effects Christmas Tree and an all encompassing light-and-sound show on the Square. The festival runs Nov. 7 through Dec. 30 and includes the production of A Dickens’ Christmas Carol, a Holiday Light Parade, the interactive kids’ show Frosty, and over 4 million lights.
“Miracle of Christmas” at Sight & Sound Theatre allows you to experience the journey of Mary and Joseph and witness the miraculous birth of Jesus, the Savior, in this original musical production featuring a cast of over 45 actors, live animals, elaborate 40-foot high sets and spectacular costumes on one of the largest stages in the country.
The Brule and Airo American Indian Rock Opera Christmas Show features cutting-edge Native American music and dance performances. The show is a blend of contemporary Native American rhythms and dance with traditional Christmas music played on Native American instruments designed to deliver a powerful message of peace, unity and reconciliation.
Thousands of white butterflies at The Butterfly Palace flutter like living snowflakes amid a rainforest sparkling with thousands of twinkling lights, while fantastic holiday music fills your soul during Christmas and New Year holidays. Living statues of breathtaking angels will amaze you with their quiet beauty and joyful peace, and will stun you when they suddenly come to life!
Our nation’s Capitol Christmas Tree will stop in Branson en route to Washington, DC, from Alpine, AZ. Locals and visitors alike are invited to the welcoming festivities at Sight & Sound Theatre on Monday, Nov. 23.
After the lighting of the area’s largest Nativity Scene, overlooking Lake Taneycomo, enjoy the 61st annual Adoration Parade on Sunday, Dec. 6. Over 60 entrants, including floats and bands from throughout Missouri, will participate in this non-commercial event where the community comes together for the sole purpose of “Keeping Christ in Christmas.”
The Trail of Lights at Shepherd of the Hills Historic Homestead allows you to drive through the farm and visit different themed areas and “peek in” on life-sized three-dimensional characters.

Holiday Promenade of Stars Parade moves to Highway 76, will be broadcast nationally

For the first time in recent history, traffic on Branson’s world famous Highway 76 will be rerouted on the north and west ends of the Strip on the morning of Nov. 7 for the Annual Holiday Promenade of Stars.

The Saturday parade will roll at 10:30 a.m. and follow the 1.4 mile long parade route beginning at White Water and ending at noon at the Grand Village, and also make history with national broadcasts on two networks. Debby Boone and Jimmy Osmond will host the national television broadcasts on RFD-TV and Retro Television Network (RTN), and on KSFX Ozarks FOX locally. In addition, the parade will be b to being broadcast live in KOMC-FM radio.

The television special is scheduled for broadcast on Thanksgiving Day and rebroadcast on Christmas Day. RFD TV is carried on several satellite and cable providers including over 625 independent cable operators to 42 million households and RTN is seen in 17 of the top 25 markets to more than 60 million households on nearly 100 stations in cities such as Pittsburg, Atlanta, Seattle, Orlando, St. Louis and Boston, according to Nielsen ratings.

“We are working hard to earn the Macy’s of the Midwest label,” said Gary Bartlett of Midwest Concerts and Events and parade organizer, announcing that “Mr. Christmas” Andy Williams will be the grand marshal. Celebrity performances include Cathy Rigby as Peter Pan, the Lennon Sisters, the Osmonds, the Spirit of Christmas Dancers and an appearance by Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus, among others, on a stage in front of the Titantic Museum.

The parade will move south on the Strip, round the bend, pause for brief stage performances at the Titanic and then move east to end at the Grand Village.

America's largest Veterans Day celebration takes place in Branson Nov. 5-11

Branson honors our veterans every day, but Veterans Homecoming Week, Nov. 5-11, is America's largest Veterans Day celebration. This seven-day tribute to America's heroes includes many special events, many of which are free. Again in 2009, a special guest at several events will be Lt. Col. Oliver North.

Also this year, the Welk Resort Branson will again host the traveling Vietnam Veterans Memorial, known as "The Wall,” during the Veterans Homecoming celebration. This official half-scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial spans nearly 240 feet in length and lists the more than 58,000 names of the nation's fallen heroes in the Vietnam conflict.

The Veterans Village has a new location this year at the Cobblestone Inn, Suites & Conference Center, 276 Tanger Blvd., and is open 9 a.m. - 4 p.m., Friday-Tuesday.

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

Branson Area Festival Of Lights Opens

The Branson Area Festival of Lights mile-long drive-through opened Sunday, Nov. 1. The entrance is across from Sight & Sound Theatre on Expressway Lane.

There are more than 170 displays including a 40-by-100 foot Santa’s Castle and 16-arch Tunnel of Lights. Open nightly from dusk until 11 p.m. through Jan. 2. Tickets are $10 for family vehicles; $20 for a season pass. It’s $25 for mini-coaches with 12-28 seats, church vans and limos, and $50 for full-sized motor coaches. Discount coupons are available online at www.ExploreBranson.com/specialoffers/

Also opening at dusk each night is the Trail of Lights drive-through at Shepherd of the Hills Homestead. Call 334-4191 or visit www.oldmatt.com.

Reindeer Days Set for Second Santa Season at Titanic Museum Attraction in Branson

Free Family Events Scheduled December 4, 5, 11 & 12

Real live reindeer were a surprise hit with hundreds of boys and girls visiting Titanic during last year’s holiday celebrations. “By popular demand, Santa and his regal reindeer will come prancin’ back this year to entertain and enchant families for two weekends in December,” says Jaynee, Titanic First Class Maid.

“This free family holiday attraction will give parents and kids alike the chance to meet Father Christmas, pet his reindeer, have their pictures taken with them and make Christmas wishes while gazin’ into their gentle eyes,” she says.

For more information, please contact us at (417) 334-9500 or visit www.titanicbranson.com

The Polar Express: Branson Scenic Railway Initiating Service to the North Pole!

The Branson Scenic Railway is proud to bring the officially licensed Polar Express Train Ride event to Branson this holiday season! The Polar Express Train Rides are based on the holiday feature film from Warner Bros. Pictures and the beloved children’s book, by Chris Van Allsburg, about a doubting young boy who takes an extraordinary train ride to the North Pole on Christmas Eve.

Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, pajama clad passengers will relive the magic of the story as this nighttime train whisks families away for an unforgettable ride to the North Pole. During the journey, the Conductor will punch tickets and chefs serve hot chocolate, followed by a reading of Van Allsburg’s classic. At the North Pole, Santa will board the train, greet the children and give a gift for those who truly believe — a silver sleigh bell.

Branson Scenic Railway joins more than thirty other officially licensed Polar Express Train Ride events nationwide this holiday season and is the only one in Missouri. The Polar Express holiday schedule consists of 60 train departures in November and December leading up to Christmas from the historic depot in downtown Branson on:

Nov. 6, 13, 20, 21, 27 & 28 at 4:45 pm, 6:30 pm and 8:15pm pm
Nov. 8, 12, 15, 19, 22 & 29 at 4:45 pm and 6:30 pm
Nov. 7 & 14 at 8:00 pm
Dec. 4, 11, 12, 18 & 19 at 4:45 pm, 6:30 pm and 8:15 pm
Dec. 3, 10, 14, 15, 16 & 17 at 4:45 pm and 6:30 pm
Dec. 5 at 8:00 pm

Tickets are on sale now and start at $34 per adult and $24 per child (ages 2-12). First Class tickets are available on a limited basis and are $49 per adult and $39 per child (ages 2-12). Along with upgraded seating, all First Class passengers will receive their own Polar Express ceramic souvenir cocoa mug! For tickets and event information, call the Branson Scenic Railway at 800-287-2462 or visit www.bransontrain.com or www.polarexpressride.com.

Chateau On The Lake Resort & Spa Hosting Elaborate Thanksgiving Day Buffet

An annual tradition for many, the Chateau on the Lake Resort & Spa Thanksgiving Day buffet will feature all of the traditional Thanksgiving fare, along with an array of other offerings to please everyone in the family, according to Stephen Marshall, vice president and general manager of the resort.

Under the direction of the resort’s Executive Chef Doug Knopp, the brunch will be served in Chateau’s impressive Great Hall, elegant Chateau Grille, and picturesque Atrium Café from 10:30 a.m - 3 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 26, 2009. There will be live entertainment featuring both a piano and a harpist, and the resort will be beautifully decorated with holiday décor, which will include two 18-foot trees in the Great Hall, smaller trees throughout the resort, and lighted garland adorning the atrium lobby.

In addition to featuring Sorghum Roasted Tom Turkey with Giblet Gravy, the buffet will also offer Chateau’s traditional Southern Fried Turkey, Slow Roasted Prime Rib of Beef with Horseradish and Red Wine Sauce, Sautéed Shrimp with Brandy Peppercorn Cream over Grilled Focaccia, Beef Bourguignon with Wild Rice, Cashew Crusted Rainbow Trout, Lamb with Apricot Mint Stuffing, and made-to-order Omelets and Waffles.

An array of cold offerings and desserts also will be offered. Children may choose from the main buffet, and/or may select from a special “Kids Buffet” with such offerings as Chicken Fingers, Hot Dogs, Macaroni & Cheese, Pizza, and Peanut Butter & Jelly Sandwiches.

The Thanksgiving Buffet is $44 per person, $22 for children ages 4-12, and free for children 3 and under with a paid adult. Tax and gratuity is additional. Reservations are highly recommended.

The AAA Four-Diamond Chateau on the Lake Resort & Spa, owned and managed by Springfield, Missouri-based John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts, is located at 415 North State Highway 265 in Branson. For reservations to the Thanksgiving Buffet, or for additional information, call (417) 243-1711.

Branson/Lakes Area Calendar of Events

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…

November 6 - December 19
Polar Express Train Ride
See description for departure dates and times
The Branson Scenic Railway is proud to bring the officially licensed Polar Express Train Ride event to Branson this holiday season! The Polar Express Train Rides are based on the holiday feature film from Warner Bros. Pictures and the beloved children’s book, by Chris Van Allsburg, about a doubting young boy who takes an extraordinary train ride to the North Pole on Christmas Eve. Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, pajama clad passengers will relive the magic of the story as this nighttime train whisks families away for an unforgettable ride to the North Pole. During the journey, the Conductor will punch tickets and chefs serve hot chocolate, followed by a reading of Van Allsburg’s classic. At the North Pole, Santa will board the train, greet the children and give a gift for those who truly believe — a silver sleigh bell. Branson Scenic Railway joins more than thirty other officially licensed Polar Express Train Ride events nationwide this holiday season and is the only one in Missouri. The Polar Express holiday schedule consists of 60 train departures in November and December leading up to Christmas from the historic depot in downtown Branson on: Nov. 6, 13, 20, 21, 27 & 28 at 4:45 pm, 6:30 pm and 8:15pm pm Nov. 8, 12, 15, 19, 22 & 29 at 4:45 pm and 6:30 pm Nov. 7 & 14 at 8:00 pm Dec. 4, 11, 12, 18 & 19 at 4:45 pm, 6:30 pm and 8:15 pm Dec. 3, 10, 14, 15, 16 & 17 at 4:45 pm and 6:30 pm Dec. 5 at 8:00 pm Tickets are on sale now and start at $34 per adult and $24 per child (ages 2-12). First Class tickets are available on a limited basis and are $49 per adult and $39 per child (ages 2-12). Along with upgraded seating, all First Class passengers will receive their own Polar Express ceramic souvenir cocoa mug! For tickets and event information, call the Branson Scenic Railway at 800-287-2462 or visit www.bransontrain.com or www.polarexpressride.com. Be sure to make your reservations early as these trains are expected to sell out quickly. “All Aboard!” - for those who truly believe! About The Polar Express Film The Academy Award-winning team of Tom Hanks and director Robert Zemeckis reunite for The Polar Express, an inspiring adventure based on the beloved children's book by Chris Van Allsburg. When a doubting young boy takes an extraordinary train ride to the North Pole, he embarks on a journey of self-discovery that shows him that the wonder of life never fades for those who believe. Sony Pictures Imageworks and visual effects supervisor Ken Ralston, Oscar winners for their innovative work, help bring the story vividly to the screen in full CG animation through Imageworks’ next-generation motion capture process that allows live-action performances to drive the emotions and movements of the digital characters. The Polar Express will air on ABC and ABC Family’s 25 Days of Christmas in December 2009. Warner Home Video will once again offer The Polar Express in standard-definition, Blu-ray and 3D DVD versions this holiday season. About The Polar Express Book “The Polar Express” movie is based on Chris VanAllburg’s classic holiday picture book, which tells the story of a boy who takes a magical Christmas Eve train ride to the North Pole to receive a special gift from Santa. First published by Houghtin Mifflin Company in 1985, The Polar Express became an instant holiday favorite and has sold more than 6 million copies worldwide. In 1986 it won the prestigious Caldecott Medal for Illustration.

November 6 - November 10
Military Day Room
Factory Merchants Branson will host the Military Day Room during the Veterans Homecoming week-long activities. Located at Factory Merchants Branson, you will find the Day Room in the lower level of building 4 right next door to Auntie Anne's Pretzels. The Day Room is open to the public. Stop in for refreshments, visits with other veterans and listen to some ole fashion 'jammin'. Just look for the red roofs!

November 7 - December 30
An Old Time Christmas at Silver Dollar City
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!

Holiday Promenade of Stars Parade
Saturday, November 7, 10:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.
The 3rd Annual Holiday Promenade of Stars moves to The Strip (Highway 76) this year! White Water is the starting point at 10:30 am and the parade ends at The Grand Village. Arrive early for a good seat along the parade route. Holiday Promenade of Stars Highlights The Holiday Promenade of Stars Parade will be televised on RFD TV, RETRO TV& KSFX Ozarks FOX and will air on Thanksgiving Day & rebroadcast on Christmas Day KOMC-FM will be doing an uninterrupted live broadcast from 10:30 - 12:00 PM at the event Hosted by: Jimmy Osmond & Debby Boone Stars will be performing at a staging area located on Hwy 76 in front of The Titanic Grand Marshall: Mr. Andy Williams

AAA Member Appreciation
Saturday, November 7
AAA and CAA Members are invited to 'Show Your Card and Save'. Visit the Center Management Office and show your membership cards for special discounts, refreshments and gift bags for the first 25. Just look for the red roofs!

November 7 - November 28
A Bonniebrook Christmas
9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Starting with an open house 1 - 4 p.m. Saturday, November 7, Bonniebrook Historical Society presents A Bonniebrook Christmas at the home of American artist Rose O'Neill. There will be holiday decorations at the Victorian style home and visitor center at Bonniebrook. There will also be music, refreshments, and free tours during the open house. O'Neill created the Kewpies at Bonniebrook in 1909 to illustrate a Christmas story for children. Some of her Christmas Kewpie drawings will be on display at Bonniebrook November 7-28. A museum, gallery, and research library dedicated to O'Neill are part of the visitor center maintained by the Bonniebrook Historical Society on the homestead property. Walking trails are open to the public all year. The museum, gallery, and reconstructed home are open to the public for tours Tuesday through Saturday from April 1 through November. Bonniebrook is 10 minutes north of Branson and 30 miles south of Springfield off U.S. Highway 65, at 485 Rose O'Neill Road in Walnut Shade. For more information, visit www.RoseONeill.org or call the Bonniebrook Historical Society.

Christian Associates GospelFest
Sunday, November 8, 2 pm - 5 pm

13th Annual Military Gala & Banquet
Sunday, November 8, 5 p.m.
13th Annual Military Gala & Banquet held in the Grand Hall at Chateau on the Lake. Cocktail hour with a cash bar begins at 5pm. Evening includes dinner, salute, candlelight POW/MIA service, outdoor fireworks, entertainment and dancing all for $51 a person. The evening honors all veterans and this year salutes veterans and service members who served during the Cold War. The event also celebrates the P.O.W. NETWORK's 20th year in service. Reservations required. Mess dress/business suits/cocktail dresses preferred. Tickets or information 866-481-GALA. You need NOT be a veteran to attend.

234th Marine Corps Birthday Ball - featuring Lt. Col. Oliver North
Tuesday, November 10

The United States Air Force Traveling Band
Tuesday, November 10, 2 pm
Factory Merchants Branson will host the United States Air Force Band of Mid-America for a free outdoor concert. The concert will be held in the beautiful upper courtyard of the center. Don't miss these 45 active duty Air Force musicians! Just look for the red roofs!

75th Veterans’ Day Parade & Ceremony Parade
Wednesday, November 11, 11 a.m.
Sponsored by American Legion Post 220.

United States Air Force Traveling Band In Concert At Branson Landing
Wednesday, November 11, 9 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.
Join us for a very special performance by the United States Air Force Band on Veteran’s Day, Wednesday, November 11, 2009 at 9 AM in front of the Branson Landing Fountains. This concert will begin the Veteran’s Day activities with the Veteran’s Day Parade starting shortly after the concert - in Downtown Branson, at 11 am.The United States Air Force Band is the Air Force’s premier musical organization. It has endeared itself to millions of listeners for more than 60 years through its exhilarating music, engaging concerts and masterful recordings. Since its formation in 1941, The United States Air Force Band has brought superb music and exciting entertainment to music lovers around the globe, earning its reputation as "America’s International Musical Ambassadors."The mission of the United States Air Force Band is to deliver world-class musical products that inspire emotions, create positive impressions and communicate information according to Air Force objectives for the defense of the United States of America. To achieve that mission, the Band has the vision of being a premier Air Force organization performing strategically designed musical missions ? planned, packages and delivered with precision.

FOX & Friends Broadcasting from Silver Dollar City
Wednesday, November 11, 5 - 8 a.m.
Come and Celebrate Veterans Day with FOX & Friends at Silver Dollar City Nov. 11, 5-8 a.m. Join us on Wednesday morning, Nov. 11, 5-8 a.m., for a live broadcast with FOX & Friends and Lt. Colonel Oliver North. Arrive at Silver Dollar City by 5 a.m., bring a toy and get a free return ticket (No SDC tickets available after 5:30 a.m.). You’ll be part of a live audience – and you’ll have a chance to meet Col. North and some of Branson’s favorite stars. Toy donation - to be valued at a min. $10.00 new toy - is to support LOVE INC. for Care for Kids Christmas, helping children in Stone and Taney Counties SDC Ticket has no cash value and cannot be sold – good for one return visit during Silver Dollar City’s Old Time Christmas, now through December 30th, Thursday-Sunday Arrive at Silver Dollar City Main Entrance BY 5:00 a.m., no later than 5:30 a.m., in order to receive the free return ticket Parking at SDC Main Entrance Concessions and Breakfast Items will be available, however the park IS closed November 11th Presented in conjunction with the Branson Convention and Visitors Bureau

November 12 - December 17
Call for Paintings White River Painting Exhibit
Entry Deadline November 11, 2009 The White River Painting Exhibit and Sale will take place in Edwards Art Gallery. We invite artists throughout the Ozarks region to submit paintings that reflect their personal views of what is important to them about the Ozarks. Themes of paintings might reflect an artist’s impressions about the environment, the beauty of the region, history, family, fishing, agriculture, tourism, community, education, architecture, transportation, or entertainment. A limit of three paintings created over the past two years may be submitted at the Ralph Foster Museum from November 2nd thru Nov. 11th from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The museum is closed on Sundays. The entry fee is $5.00 for one painting, $7.50 for two paintings, and $10.00 for three paintings.

Ozark Mountain Family YMCA Strong Kids
Saturday, November 21

Nation's U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree in Branson
Monday, November 23, 3 p.m.
The nation’s U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree provided by the National Park Service will again stop in Branson on its way to be lit in front of the U.S. Capitol building in Washington D.C. See the tree at 3 p.m. on Nov. 23 in front of the Sight & Sound Theatre. Mayor Raeanne Presley will greet the tree, and there will be entertainment by Yakov Smirnoff, the cast of the Circle B Supper Show, New South, Doug Gabriel, the Haygoods and the Highway 76 Trombones. Also, actors and animals from Sight & Sound’s “Miracle of Christmas” will be on hand, said producer Bill Lennon. Each year, a tree is provided from a national forest for the honor. This is an 85-foot blue spruce from Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests in Arizona. The tree will be decorated with 10,000 handmade ornaments. You can follow the tree's progress from Arizona to Washington, D.C., at www.trackthetree.com

November 25 - November 29
Christmas in the Ozarks
This Christmas show features live entertainment, free pictures with Santa, unique gifts and cash prizes. Exhibitors can contact Burch Productions at 417-334-5903 for more information.

Outlet Shop on Thanksgiving Day!
Thursday, November 26
Factory Merchants Branson will be open on Thanksgiving Day from noon to 6pm. Come out and get a jump on the busiest shopping weekend of the year! Just look for the red roofs to find Factory Merchants Branson.

November 27 - November 29
Madness of Midnight at Tanger Outlets
The Madness of Midnight is back! All Tanger Centers will open at midnight on Thanksgiving night and sales will continue throughout the weekend. We will promote offers on the Web a month prior to the sales, building anticipation for the event. Midnight Madness ? Friday, 11/27 Midnight-7amEarly Bird Offer ? Friday, 11/27 7am-11am & Saturday, 11/28 Open-11amEvening Owl Offer ? Friday & Saturday, 11/27 & 11/28 5pm-CloseBIG End of Weekend Offer ? Sunday, 11/29 Open-Close

November 27 - November 29
After-Thanksgiving Weekend Sale
Factory Merchants Branson will open early and still open late for your shopping convenience. Fri, Nov 27: 7am-10pm, Sat, Nov 28: 8am-10pm and Sun, Nov 29: 9am-7pm. Just look for the red roofs to find great outlet shopping featuring such fine stores as Carter's, Reebok, Pendleton, Jones New York, Lane Bryant Outlet, Red Wing Shoes and many more!

Christmas Run for CAM
Saturday, November 28
"Christmas Run for CAM" (benefitting Christian Action Ministry) is a run/walk (1 mile or 3 mile) and all proceeds will go to CAM. For further information, please contact Becky Lowrance at 294-4775 or email at Becky@sweetmagnoliatours.com. Race entry form and link will also be posted on www.omrr.org

Branson Fun Days
Friday, December 4
Branson Fun Days for retired school personnel. Two shows, lunch, dinner, museum and Christmas lights tour at Shepherd of the Hills Historic Homestead all in one day with transportation provided for the day- plus fabulous discounts on many of Branson’s best shows available December 1-10. Call Missouri Retired Teachers Association for more information.

December 4 - December 5
Christmas Tour of Homes
10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
2009 Christmas Tour of Homes in the Table Rock Lake area near Branson. Tickets may be purchased at the Country Mart in Branson West, and in Kimberling City at the Kimberling Area Library, Metropolitan National Bank, People’s Bank, Summer Fresh Supermarket, and Harter House. Included with the Tour of Homes is a Hospitality Room at the Kimberling Area Library offering complimentary refreshments, a Unique Boutique of craft items, Silent Auction, Prize Drawing, and Bake Sale. A light lunch will also be available for purchase at our Christmas Tea Room located at the Hospitality Room. The Tea Room will be open both days of the tour from 11:30 AM until 2:30 PM. For more information, contact Sue Spoley at 417-779-2626 (sespol@reisenbach.com).

December 4 - December 5
Santa’s Reindeer at The Titanic
Titanic’s parking lot will turn into a winter wonderland again when Santa and his reindeer stop by for two special weekends. Last year’s visit was a magical holiday experience for hundreds of boys and girls, and this year’s Christmas visit promises to be even more exciting. This free family attraction gives parents and kids the chance to pat real-live reindeer while having their pictures taken with these relatively rare creatures.

Forsyth Christmas Parade
Saturday, December 5
Forsyth's Annual Christmas Parade... Santa Claus Will Be Available For Pictures At No Cost! For more information, email forsyth.chamber@yahoo.com

61st Annual Adoration Parade & Lighting Ceremony
Sunday, December 6, Lighting ceremony 5:30 p.m.
Festive night-time parade and Adoration scene lighting ceremony. 2009 Adoration Parade Band Application (PDF) 2009 Adoration Parade Float Walking Unit Application (PDF)

National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day
Monday, December 7
A special ceremony that will commemorate "The day that will live in infamy."

December 11 - December 12
Santa’s Reindeer at The Titanic
Titanic’s parking lot will turn into a winter wonderland again when Santa and his reindeer stop by for two special weekends. Last year’s visit was a magical holiday experience for hundreds of boys and girls, and this year’s Christmas visit promises to be even more exciting. This free family attraction gives parents and kids the chance to pat real-live reindeer while having their pictures taken with these relatively rare creatures.