Bluegrass and Barbecue will bring talented musicians from all over the world and visitors eager to watch them perform this May in Silver Dollar City. The festival begins May 13th and continues until the 31st in a 3-week long celebration of bluegrass music and delicious barbecue. With music shows, contests, and a House of Barbecue, you won’t have a spare minute between each exciting event at this festival.

Bluegrass performers who will be at the event this year include famous bands and musicians like Bobby Osborne and Rocky Top X-press, Men of the Week, and The Grascals as well as rising stars like Redhead Express, Sweet Potato Pie, and Southern Raised. Their high energy performances will have you tapping your toes and clapping your hands. You may discover some new personal favorites while you’re visiting Silver Dollar City for this festival.

The House of Barbecue is the other main attraction of this event. The Red Gold Heritage Hall has been converted into an incredible center of barbecue magic. Memphis dry rubs, Texas-style barbecue, and more await you inside the doors of the hall. Try one or try them all throughout the day. Some delicious sides orders are available as well. Try the fresh roasted corn or dinner rolls with your barbecue.

The weather isn’t the only thing warming up in the Ozarks as the beginning of May is set to see a variety of special events in Branson, offering the perfect time to get out and experience the varied entertainment and natural beauty of the area. From internationally known musicians and comedians to festivals and grand openings, it is all taking place within the next few weeks, so read on now and put the final touches on your next visit to Branson, MO!

Kenny G – April 24, 2010

He has sold over 75 million albums worldwide, and now you can see him live in Branson, MO for one night only! Kenny G has impressed the masses with his abilities and feats on the Alto and Tenor saxophone, including his still-standing world record for playing the longest continuous note on a sax. Throughout the night, Kenny’s smooth jazz style will offer the perfect accompaniment to a romantic outing in the Ozarks, though all music fans are encouraged to quickly secure what is left of tickets regardless of your reasons for visiting the area.

Branson Zipline and Canopy Tours – Opens May 1, 2010

Opening May 1, Branson Zipline and Canopy Tours brings an entirely new level of excitement to the area while emphasizing an adventurous look into the Ozarks ecology. A variety of zip line and canopy tour options are featured, ranging from encompassing tours including numerous zip lines and suspension bridges to thrilling zips that will have you soaring over 100 feet above the ground, literally surrounded by the Ozark Mountains canopy. And while we encourage everyone to Soar into Adventure as soon as possible, Branson Zipline and Canopy Tours will be open every day throughout the year!

Vicki Lawrence and Mama: A Two Woman Show – May 7 – 8, 2010

With talents too big for one-night only, Vicki Lawrence will be bringing her latest stage show to Branson, MO for both May 7 and 8. Having first found fame on the legendary Carol Burnett Show and later with her own sit-com Mama’s Family, Vicki also experienced a successful music career that included the #1 hit “The Night that the Lights Went Out in Georgia.” Whether familiar with Vicki’s prior work or simply a fan of stand-up, two of the funniest nights Branson has ever seen will be back-to-back at the Mansion Theatre with Vicki Lawrence and Mama: A Two Woman Show.

Bluegrass & BBQ at Silver Dollar City – May 13 – 31, 2010

Experience all of the thrill rides, live shows and attractions typically featured at Silver Dollar City along side mouth-watering barbecue and knee-slappin’ bluegrass during the park’s annual Bluegrass & BBQ Festival. Throughout the month, The House of BBQ will serve a variety of barbecue from across the nation as legendary bluegrass artists including Rhonda Vincent, The Grascals, Dailey & Vincent and more visit the park for live performances.

For more general information on the Branson, MO area and to easily place reservations for a wide range of activities, shows, lodging and complete vacation packages, visit BransonShows.com

From high flying adventures in the Ozark Mountains to new performers at your favorite theaters, the Branson entertainment scene will be welcoming many new additions in the New Year. Branson has never had so many fantastic options!

Outdoor adventurers will welcome an exotic adventure right here in the Ozarks at Branson Zipline and Canopy Tour, which will begin its inaugural season in the spring. Branson Zipline and Canopy Tour is located just a few miles north of Branson off of Hwy 65. This tour includes several zip lines and walkways, and the course covers about one mile. The Branson Zipline also contains an ecological aspect, and you can enjoy learning about the topographical and geographical aspects of the Ozarks, as well as see the varied flora and fauna. Zip line tours grew to popularity in Costa Rica and other tropical climes, but you can experience the thrill of a canopy tour in Branson! 

For more information about the Branson Zipline and Canopy Tour, check out the official web site: www.BransonZipline.com. 

In addition to brand new offerings, Branson will also be debuting new additions at veteran attractions. Silver Dollar City has been working on a new ride, and it will debut in the spring as a part of Silver Dollar City’s 50th anniversary, which will be celebrated all year long in an on-going party. The $7 million dollar Tom & Huck’s RiverBlast will be the U.S.’s biggest water battle ride attraction. This ride features rafts equipped with water blasters that the riders can use to shoot other rafts as well as onlookers standing on the banks of the White River. This ride is designed to soak riders and is sure to be a highlight of the summer season.

To find more information on the Tom and Huck RiverBlast and Silver Dollar City’s 50th Anniversary, check out the Silver Dollar City web site. 

Two shows new in Branson in 2009 have added new features to their performances. Bill Medley and Paul Revere and the Raiders at Andy Williams’ Moon River Theatre will be welcoming Bill Haley’s Original Comets for a combo show this summer, and Andy Williams will return in the fall and winter. Yakov’s Moscow Circus will be returning for another season, and this year the circus will also have a dinner and lunch show option. In addition to seeing the circus love story, visitors can dine on an authentic Russian meal.

Meanwhile, Branson visitors can also find some new events to enjoy in 2010. The annual Ozark Mountain Spring festival will host “See the World in Branson” in April and May. This special event will celebrate the many multi-cultural and international acts, performers, and restaurants fond in Branson. Later in September, the Ironman 70.3 qualifying event will take place in Branson, and athletes will be competing for a $25,000 grand prize as well as a chance to compete in the Ironman World Championship in Florida.

BransonShows.com is your online destination for all things Branson, including both new and old activities, attractions, and shows. More announcements for 2010 will be released in the upcoming months, so be sure to check back often for more news. Visit BransonShows.com or call 1-800-987-9852 to begin planning your 2010 Branson vacation.

For nearly one month, Silver Dollar City’s An Old Time Christmas has been entertaining visitors with holiday cheer, though there is still ample to time for those that have yet to experience the merriment to get out to the Ozarks. Running through December 30, An Old Time Christmas coats the 18th century Ozarks surroundings of Silver Dollar City with a delightful cheer and numerous activities and exhibits pertaining to the holidays. The Gifts of Christmas Holiday Lights Parade, live presentations of A Dickens Christmas Carol and a five-story Christmas tree are just a few of the special additions in store, with millions of Christmas lights covering the park in a gentle glow. Silver Dollar City can offer an authentic view of the history and culture of the Branson area, and An Old Time Christmas is certainly no exception in terms of representing the fervor that the typical Ozarks resident approaches the winter season with.

Potential visitors can learn more about Silver Dollar City’s An Old Time Christmas here.

As the first theme park in Branson, Silver Dollar City is an encompassing look at all that Branson stands for. The park is set to resemble the Ozarks during the 1800’s with a variety of craft exhibits, historical reenactments and natural charm, and that’s just the setting of this exciting park. Guests can expect to find numerous rides such as the interactive Flooded Mine and thrilling coaster experiences including PowderKeg, with 40 daily live shows and countless attractions that range from train rides to child play areas helping to compliment the wide array of rides. Let entertainment and history come together at Silver Dollar City for a truly memorable day in Branson.

Purchase admission to Silver Dollar City online here.

And if you’re hoping to catch a few of the popular Branson shows during your visit, you will find a wide variety of special Christmas performances taking place from now through the end of the year. From traditional Branson offerings such as Shoji Tabuchi and Yakov Smirnoff to limited engagements that include the Miracle of Christmas, there are a variety of show offerings, each getting into the spirit of the holidays.

Browse our comprehensive list of 2009 Branson Christmas shows.

It is that time of year again! Silver Dollar City will debut its annual holiday season Christmas festival on November 7, and the Old Time Christmas will run until December 30.

During this annual festival, Silver Dollar City is transformed by millions of lights. The highlight of the light display is Christmas on Main Street, Silver Dollar City’s largest light display. In addition, the park has a five story special effects Christmas tree that has a light show coordinated to holiday songs. Silver Dollar City also has a Christmas Holiday Light Parade that goes through the park twice a day.

Visitors to Silver Dollar City during this festival can also enjoy a range of live performances, including The Living Nativity and Frosty, as well as A Dickens’ Christmas Carol. Other holiday activities to enjoy during the festival include culinary school lessons, Christmas shopping at the many fun stores in Silver Dollar City, and sampling some of the holiday cuisine at Tastes of the Season. An Old Time Christmas offers holiday magic for all ages and is the perfect activity to get you and your family in the holiday spirit.

Find more information about Silver Dollar City’s Old Time Christmas at its official Web site.

For all of your Silver Dollar City ticket needs, check out BransonShows.com! With two day passes to Silver Dollar City or the Day in Silver Dollar City vacation package, you can find everything you need for a great holiday experience in Branson! Go to BransonShows.com or call 1-800-987-6298 to set up your reservations today!

Branson is full of folks who give back to their community. And those folks have plenty of opportunity this holiday season. Branson has several events benefiting local charities this time of year. Supporters of these events are encouraging Branson residents and visitors to come out and make a difference. Who knows, you might even enjoy it!

On November 1, the Boys & Girls Club of the Ozarks will host it’s annual Christmas Tree Auction. The Boys & Girls Club of the Ozarks welcomes the public to enjoy the auction. Storytellers will be accompanied by Santa, so bring the kids along! The auction begins at 6 PM and admission is $3 at the door. The event is being held at the Branson Mill Craft Village. Bring the family out to this fun-filled event to support the Boys & Girls Club of the Ozarks.

If a benefit show is more your speed, check out the show benefiting the Branson Veterans Task Force (BVTF). On November 8, #1 Hits of the 60′s will be performing a benefit concert for the BVTF. The BVTF is dedicated to celebrating the sacrifices made by our veterans through awareness and celebrations, including Memorial Day ceremonies, Independence Day celebrations, and Veterans Week events. Admission is $20 and all proceeds of this benefit concert will go to the BVTF. The show will begin at 2 PM at the Caravelle Theater in Branson. Seating is limited, so arriving early is advised.

Not to be left out, Silver Dollar City takes the opportunity during it’s annual An Old Time Christmas festival to offer a helping hand to the Ozarks. The fourth annual “Run To The Lights” event is being held on November 13. This 5K Run/Walk will begin after park closing at 10 PM. The trail will weave it’s way through Silver Dollar City, so you can enjoy the lights while you help out “The Caring People,” an organization that reaches out to single moms. Only the first 1,500 people will be accepted to participate so register online at www.active.com.

Join in on one of these events, or find one of your own, and offer a helping hand to your favorite organization in the Ozarks this holiday season.

After an international poll performed by the Amusement Today newspaper, Silver Dollar City in Branson, Missouri received several awards for its performance in the theme park industry.

The Golden Ticket Awards were held September 10 at LEGOLAND in Carlsbad, California and were hosted by Amusement Today. The awards give top honors in a range of categories to theme parks across the United States.

This was the first year that Silver Dollar City received a top honor in a major category, taking home the title of “Friendliest Park” out of all the theme parks in the U.S. Silver Dollar City also received the following prizes:

• #2 Best Christmas Event
• #2 Best Food
• #3 Best Shows
• #5 Best Landscaping (tie)

Overall, the Golden Ticket Awards poll a database of theme park fans and visitors in 25 different categories, including the above as well as Best Roller Coasters, Best Water Rides, and Best Amusement Park.

Visitors can find more information about Silver Dollar City’s receipt of this prestigious award at its official Web site.

Silver Dollar City’s next event is the National Harvest Festival, which began on September 12. To purchase tickets for Silver Dollar City, visit BransonShows.com.

BransonShows.comoffers tickets for Silver Dollar City and other Branson shows and attractions, as well as lodging. Visit BransonShows.comor call 1-800-987-6298 to set up your Branson reservations today!

As the Southern Gospel Picnic is set to wrap up on September 7, it is time to look ahead to the next scheduled festival of Silver Dollar City. The National Harvest Festival is set to begin on September 12 and run to October 31.

The National Harvest Festival features over 500 artisans and musicians to celebrate American craftsmanship. A variety of craftsman will be at the park each Wednesday through Sunday providing demonstrations, lectures, and more. Everything from watercolor to jewelry making to wood carving can be found during the festival.

The festival also has several other events taking place. The Salute to the Great American Cowgirl will take place September 12 to 27. This event celebrates the life of traditional cowgirls and their history in America. This tribute includes a performance by the All American Cowgirl Chicks and an exhibit of photography.

Also taking place during the festival is the Missouri’s Best showcase of local and state craftsman. The World Bird Sanctuary from St. Louis will be on hand with demonstrations, and other exhibits of this section include Best of Missouri Hands and Rural Missouri Showcase. These exhibits can be found September 30 to October 31.

In addition to all of these special events, Silver Dollar City still has the great food and rides that visitors love. During the National Harvest Festival, guests can find regional cuisine throughout the park at Taste of America. Guests can find regional favorites from the Heartland, the Frontier, and the Southwest. For those with a sweet tooth, many desserts can be found at Cowboy’s Favorite Desserts.

To find more information and a complete schedule for Silver Dollar City’s National Harvest Festival, visit its official Web site.

To purchase your Silver Dollar City tickets for this great event, visit BransonShows.com or call 1-800-987-9852. BransonShows.com is also your one-stop destination for all things Branson, including lodging, activities, and show tickets.

Time is running out to visit some Branson shows and attractions as the summer season comes to an end. Monday, September 7, is the last day to enjoy Yakov’s Moscow Circus and White Water water park. In addition, September 7 is the last day of Silver Dollar City’s Southern Gospel Picnic.

Yakov’s Moscow Circus is held at Yakov’s Theater. The show features a variety of circus acts, including acrobatics, fire juggling, clown antics, dancing, and more. The show follows the unfolding love story of Andrei the Clown and Marina the Ballerina as they face obstacles to be together. Other acts of the show include a unicycle demonstration from the unicycle champion Anthony Soumiatin and animal performances. September 7 at 3 p.m. is the last chance to see this great family-friendly show.

White Water offers cool thrills for the entire family, and September 7 is the last day to take advantage of all that White Water offers. Young children will enjoy their very own section of the park, Splash Island and Little Squirts WaterWorks. The park is also full of slides, tube rides, and more fun attractions like Raging River Rapids and the Caribbean Plunge. In addition, the park has classic water park attractions like a huge wave pool.

Silver Dollar City’s Southern Gospel Picnic event will also be ending on September 7. This event features classic Southern entertainment and food. A variety of Southern Gospel groups and singers will be performing in the park throughout the event and on the last day, and customers can also sample traditional Southern food and enjoy all of the great attractions that Silver Dollar City offers year round. In addition, BransonShows.com offers a Play and Splash ticket that will let you go to both Silver Dollar City for the Southern Gospel Picnic and White Water to enjoy the last days of summer.

BransonShows.com offers tickets to these attractions and more in Branson, in addition to lodging in Branson and the surrounding area. To purchase tickets or set up lodging, go to BransonShows.com or call 1-800-987-6298 to set up your reservations.

From World-Fest and the Bluegrass & BBQ to KidsFest and Moonlight Madness, Branson’s Silver Dollar City has enjoyed unique festivals and events throughout the 2009 season. The latest event on the family-friendly amusement park’s upcoming schedule is the annual Southern Gospel Picnic, where some of America’s top gospel artists display their musical talents.

This year’s Southern Gospel Picnic takes place from August 27 through September 7. You’ll find that warm feelings fill the air throughout the 12-day festival, as a variety of gospel concerts are held each day to go along with the Chicken & Fixin’s picnic feast. Among the artists and groups set to perform throughout the festival are Jeff & Sheri Easter, Brian Free and Assurance, The Isaacs, Austin’s Bridge, Karen Peck & New River, The Booth Brothers, The Kingsmen Quartet, The Perrys, and Gold City, to name a few.

Also featured during the festival is the Southern Gospel Nights, which takes place each evening before the park’s closing at the Echo Hollow Ampitheater. For a full list of performers, dates, and times during the Southern Gospel Nights, click here.

Of course, Silver Dollar City’s usual attractions, rides, and games will still be available to guests throughout the day. You can enjoy a full day of your favorite rides, such as the PowderKeg or the WildFire, before sitting back and relaxing under the night sky with your favorite gospel tunes. For additional enjoyment, Silver Dollar City has also instituted its Trailblazer Pass, new for the 2009 season. For just $20, you will be granted permission to cut to the front of those long lines up to six times throughout the day.

Gospel music fans and music fans in general will find much to appreciate while visiting Silver Dollar City in Branson, MO during the Southern Gospel Picnic. Find more information about the festival, as well as lodging information throughout Branson, at BransonShows.com.