On top of featuring great rides and shows year round, Silver Dollar City also hosts entertaining themed festivals throughout the year. For the summer months, Silver Dollar City has dedicated the park to kids with KidsFest.

KidsFest began on June 6 and will continue to August 9. Special features of the festival include JEERK, a performance group from Sweden, and the return of magician Peter Gossamer. JEERK is a group of six musicians and percussionists that combine music, dancing, stomp, and more for an entertaining show. Peter Gossamer is a world-renowned illusionist that will amaze your family with his unbelievable acts.

VeggieTales Presents: The Invention of Silliness will also be showing during KidsFest. This movie follows Pa Grape in his quest to invent the silliest song ever and features all of the other VeggieTales characters your family loves. If you are looking to get your hands dirty, visit the Kids Concoctions station, where the experts will show you how to make volcanoes and gooey gunk.

Of course, all of these special shows are free with regular Silver Dollar City admission. In addition, all of Silver Dollar City’s regular shows and rides will be open. With rides for every age, your whole family will find something to entertain them.

With so much to see and do at Silver Dollar City, it is easy to run out of time, so Silver Dollar City will begin its Moonlight Madness hours on July 27 through August 9. The park will be open until 10 p.m. to make sure you don’t miss a thing.

Find more information on KidsFest here.

For all of your Branson lodging, show, and Silver Dollar City ticket needs, go to BransonShows.com.

This June 23 through July 5 marks your only chance in Branson, MO this year to see the entertaining acts of Mishka the Russian Bears! Presented by Yakov’s Moscow Circus at Yakov’s Theatre, the show will give your entire family great pleasure as these furry creatures try their hand at bicycle and unicycle riding, plus an assortment of tricks showcasing their agility, balance, and coordination. Choose from either a 3 p.m. show or an 8 p.m. show and take advantage of this limited engagement on your trip to Branson!

Yakov’s Moscow Circus itself runs from June 10 through September 7 with a variety of 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. shows. With a history and tradition that traces back over 200 years, the show blends romance and zany comedy perfectly as Andrei the Clown searches for his love, Marina the Ballerina. The whole family will enjoy the tricks, feats, and comic relief from such performers as Irina Markova and her canine and feline crew, the National Unicycling Champion Anthony Soumiatin, Boris the Wonder Dog, and the “Strongmen of Moscow” known as Igor & Denis.

In addition to Mishka the Russian Bears at the Moscow Circus, Yakov’s Theatre also offers one-of-a-kind performances from country music superstar Neal McCoy and, of course, the Russian comedian Yakov Smirnoff himself. You can view all of the activities, performances, and schedules at Yakov Theatre by visiting the Yakov homepage. For a full list of lodging options, show schedules, and ticket information for Branson, visit BransonShows.com.

Branson has long been known for its selection of live entertainment options, and over the course of the next several weekends, Branson will be overflowing with entertainment options through its concerts and tributes at the Branson Landing. With the number of concerts approaching, you can schedule your Branson vacation around which event you are most interested in seeing.

Start with the 2nd Annual Liberty Light Up Celebration at the Branson Landing on July 3. At 8 p.m. that evening, Chain Reaction will be performing its tribute to the band “Journey” through an assortment of the latter’s greatest hits. You’ll watch in awe at the band’s re-creation of such hits as “Separate Ways,” “Don’t Stop Believin’,” “Open Arms,” “Ask the Lonely,” and much more. Stick around after the concert for the Liberty Light Up Fireworks Show in front of the Branson Landing fountains, guaranteed to start your Independence Day weekend off right.

The following weekend on July 10, Christie’s Ex – A Billy Joel Tribute Band will provide sounds that so closely resemble those of Billy Joel, you’ll believe that you’re actually hearing the legend himself. Don’t miss the humor, excitement, and great music that are included in the performance. Or, choose to travel to Branson on July 24 for the Lost Highway concert, a band that plays some of the greatest hits from the 1980′s through the present.

August starts off with a bang with the Firefall concert on August 1. The band sings such recognized songs as “Strange Way,” “You are the Woman,” ” Living Ain’t Livin’,” and much more. Witness the band that has shared the stage with many of the top groups of this musical era. The 4 Jax concert on August 7, the Mark Champion Band on August 21, and the Big Smith concert of August 28 give you opportunities to hear some of the Ozarks region’s local talent. The 4 Jax are based out of Missouri and offer an energetic performance; The Mark Champion Band out of Springfield, MO sings their modern country and soft rock hits; and Big Smith, also out of Springfield, captures the culture of the Ozarks with their acoustic sounds.

Come see why Branson is dubbed “The Live Entertainment Capital of the World.” Learn more about the Branson Landing’s upcoming concerts and tributes to help you decide when to schedule your weekend vacation in Branson!

With live entertainment, museums, shopping options, and much more, Branson boasts the perfect combination of big-city activities with small-town hospitality. You can enjoy a diverse vacation experience to Branson this summer by choosing from among Branson’s vacation package options. No matter who you’re traveling with or what your planned activities are, a vacation package is a good way to organize the bulk of your vacation around the activities you’re sure to love.

 A Day in Silver Dollar City Package
With a hotel option of your choice and a one-day pass to Silver Dollar City, this package offers the perfect opportunity to enjoy the rides, games, shows, crafts, and shopping at this famous theme park in one fun-filled day. Whether you want a hotel with proximity to Silver Dollar City or you would prefer a quieter option in the surrounding Ozarks region, this package is for you.

A Silver Dollar City Vacation
If one day isn’t enough, enjoy a more extensive stay at Silver Dollar City with this vacation package option, where two night’s hotel accommodations and a two-day pass to Silver Dollar City await you. Choose an area hotel, then visit all of the thrilling rides and shows you can handle. Enjoy double the fun and double the hospitality of the Ozarks region with A Silver Dollar City Vacation.

Two Night Branson Getaway Package
For the best in educational experiences coupled with Branson’s famed entertainment options, choose the Two Night Branson Getaway Package. The package includes two or more nights in an area hotel of your choice, plus admission to the musical stylings of the Pierce Arrow Show, the upbeat performance of Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede, and the informative details at the Titanic Museum.

Branson Shows Vacation Package
Non-stop entertainment is the key phrase with the Branson Shows Vacation Package, which combines some of Branson’s most popular shows into one convenient package. Enjoy three full nights in a hotel of your choice, then enjoy the best in entertainment that Branson offers – Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede, the Shoji Tabuchi Show, and Noah the Musical – for a memorable vacation in The Live Entertainment Capital of the World.

Branson Landing Weekend Escape
Enjoy the luxury of a Branson Landing hotel for two nights, plus a relaxing cruise around Lake Taneycomo. Take some time to enjoy the Branson Landing’s fine variety of shops and restaurants in what is sure to be a vacation experience like no other.

Do you have a skill that you think is truly rare? Does your pet have an amazing trick? If so, your chance for fame has arrived! The Late Show with David Letterman will be in Branson on June 27 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Branson Landing to hold an open casting call for his Stupid Human Tricks and Stupid Pet Tricks segment of his show.

There are no admission or entry costs, but the casting call is first come, first served. There is no age requirement, but participants under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent of legal guardian. The auditions begin at 11 a.m. and end promptly at 2 p.m.

For those who are bringing pets, they must bring sufficient water, pets must be kept on a leash or in a kennel and be under control of their owner until the audition time, and owners must provide up-to-date vaccination information.

Participants who are chosen will receive an all-expenses paid trip to New York for their appearance on the Late Show in front of a live studio audience and millions of at-home viewers.

Contestants must review the full list of official rules for the casting call, which can be found at http://ozarksfirst.com/content/Letterman. Tricks must be safe, fun, and unique, and pets must be treated humanely. Release and waiver forms must be signed by every participant.

The casting call is being put on by the Late Show with David Letterman, KOLR-10 Springfield, KSFM Ft. Smith, KHTV Little Rock, and the Branson Convention and Visitors Bureau. There is no guarantee that David Letterman will actually be at the casting call.

BransonShows.com offers a variety of lodging in Branson for both you and your pet by Branson Landing and at other parts of the city. You can explore a list of options here.  Also, if you want to catch one of Branson’s famous shows like the Jim Stafford Show or SIX, you can purchase your tickets here.

As a city brimming with live performances and world-famous entertainment, Branson’s guests rarely visit the city solely for its shopping options. But Branson does offer unique shopping locations to help top off your unforgettable trip to the area. Whether you’re looking for the perfect clothing to match the season or souvenirs to help you remember your stay, try out these different shops the next time you’re in Branson.

Victorian Village

With 14 shops featuring a wide range of items, Victorian Village offers the kind of shopping that is difficult to find almost anywhere else. You will easily lose yourself among the different small treasures and keepsakes of this site. Perfect for souvenirs and gift ideas, the village offers decorative items, jewelry, paintings, and rare antiques within any one of the vastly different stores. You will also find different gourmet foods and furniture within this delightful shop. Victorian Village offers the variety you’re looking for in a shopping center.

Tanger Outlet Mall

Boasting a rare combination of quality and quantity, Tanger Outlet Mall offers dozens of different venues to satisfy any shopper. Clothing, shoes, cosmetics, jewelry, housewares, and more are all available. Brand name stores – such as Levi’s, Gap, Ralph Lauren, Ann Taylor, Tommy Hilfiger, Coach, and Disney – ensure that you could spend the entire afternoon walking through the outlets and never visit the same place twice. Work up an appetite before sitting down and enjoying a lunch or dinner in the food court, where you will find a deli to go along with smaller, alluring eateries.

Alaska Down South

For true, one-of-a-kind collectibles from all over the world, Alaska Down South is a safe bet. Located right on the 76 strip, the shop features a wide selection of hand-crafted items from such parts of the world as Northern USA, Canada, and even Africa. Among these items are pieces of furniture, chandeliers, bathroom accessories, and various sculptures. There is even a section of wildlife artwork to help add character to your home. Whether you’re intending to buy or you’re just looking for a fun afternoon of browsing, you will find much to enjoy at Alaska Down South.

Those visiting Branson, MO may be compelled to see its world-renowned shows and museums. However, with summer finally here, there’s nothing better than enjoying the great outdoors. And with an abundance of activities in Branson fit for the summer months, the time is now to start planning your vacation to this charming and glamorous city. Whether you’re traveling with your family or your closest friends, the options are plentiful in Branson!

Rockaway Beach

With recreational activities, shopping, dining, and more, Rockaway Beach is Branson’s answer to the perfect outdoor, family-friendly destination. Located on the shores of Lake Taneycomo, visitors will find activities ranging from the inactive to the more strenuous: relax on the warm sands of the beach, take a boat out for an afternoon along the water, fish in waters famous for catching trout, or hike and sightsee along the surrounding ozarks region. Finish your day by enjoying one of the restaurants along the shoreline, or stop at one of the area’s shops. No matter what your interests are, you’re certain to find them at Rockaway Beach.

Talking Rocks Cavern

Bring the family to Talking Rocks Cavern for a day of mining, mini golf, and additional underground and outdoor fun. Take a tour of Powell Cave and Mudd Cave, where you’ll learn about the history of the Ozark Mountains and the geology of the entire region. Hike along the surface trails and view the area from the site’s 45-foot observation tower. With tours up, down, and around the caves, you can let out the adventurer in you by enjoying a fun-filled day at Talking Rocks Cavern.

Thousand Hills Golf Course

Golf enthusiasts will find nothing to dislike about Thousand Hills Golf Course. The 3 1/2-star-rated course ranks among Golf Digest’s “places to go” with its great mix of challenging holes and beautiful scenery, exemplified by its assortment of narrow, tree-lined fairways and lush greens. With its difficult and professional design, the Thousand Hills Golf Course requires a wide range of skills even for the most avid golfer. For a golf outing like you’ve never experienced before, try out the Thousand Hills Golf Course in Branson.

Ford truck owners and enthusiasts everywhere unite annually for the Show-Me F-100′s Annual Ozarks Run, where contests, games, and activities combine for a weekend of entertainment only the Ozarks can provide. This year’s event marks the 22nd annual F-100 run and takes place from Friday, July 10 through Sunday, July 12. Over the span of those three days, a variety of trophies and awards will be given for such categories as best engine, best interior, best exterior, oldest and youngers trucker, and best overall truck aged anywhere from 1948 to 1979.

Although the run is strictly a Ford F-100 pickup event, the games and activities provided are enough to keep even the least fanatic guests entertained. Bring the entire family for such activities as Friday’s ice cream social and live music featuring Mark Aldred and David Watson, or Saturday’s games, judging, and awards show. Enjoy great food throughout the weekend as well, with rib tips, mini burgers, hot dogs, sandwiches, pretzels, and sodas. You can even choose to attend the drive-in movie showing of American Graffiti on Saturday night.

Whether you’re a long-time Ford truck devotee, a novice in truck ownership, or an indifferent guest, you will enjoy the the festivities during this summer weekend. Admission is free to the public, though cash donations are always welcomed in order to keep the show running each year. So if you’re planning on a Branson, MO summer vacation, why not make it during the Show Me F-100′s Annual Ozarks Run?

For information about nearby lodging options or other Branson, MO activities and attractions, visit www.bransonshows.com or call 1-800-987-6298.

The Fourth of July marks a special time for fun and family togetherness while we celebrate the anniversary of our nation’s independence. With the big day rapidly approaching and families searching for that perfect Independence Day weekend destination, Branson, MO stands out as an ideal family vacation spot with its assortment of nearby Fourth of July celebrations.

Sponsored by the Branson Veterans Task Force and Branson’s Golden Corral, the always family-friendly Spirit of ’76 Fourth of July Celebration features terrific food, music, a praise service, and fireworks. Don’t miss the hot air balloon rides, as well, to help you celebrate our nation’s independence in style. Located within the open grassland and peaceful streams of Stockstill Park, the Spirit of ’76 celebration offers the best of both worlds: a wonderful educational opportunity for children to understand the true meaning of patriotism, while still remaining an exuberant, memorable festivity.

For those who would prefer to spend the Fourth of July holiday along the calm waters of Table Rock Lake, the Fireburst Fourth of July Fireworks Show provides a lively evening of entertainment and fireworks. Kimberling City, located just a few minutes from thriving downtown Branson, plays host to this annual event. Sit back and watch the mirrored images of fireworks in the sky and in the water. Whether you’re on the banks of Table Rock Lake or you’re one of the thousands on the water, there is no such thing as a bad seat when you take part in this event.

Schedule your summer vacation around one of this year’s Independence Day weekend celebrations around Branson, MO – The Live Entertainment Capital of the World! For more information about lodging options or additional Branson attractions during your stay, visit www.BransonShows.com, or call us at 1-800-987-6298.