Being on vacation is all about fun, and there’s no better way to have fun than to enjoy a hilarious comedy show! This year in Branson, the Jim Stafford Show is preparing for exciting new performances by Todd Oliver and his talking dogs. You will love the delightful banter between Todd Oliver and his dogs, and you will giggle at the jokes and one-liners that the dogs say during this incredible performance! This show is appropriate for all ages, so the entire family can enjoy this unique show.

If you love Elvis, you will be delighted by the new show for 2011 at the Americana Theater. Elvis impersonator Joseph Hall, who has been recognized by Elvis Presley Enterprises, will be performing a stellar show complete with special effects and lasers. Hall will perform Elvis’ best-loved hits while being backed by a live band. This exciting new performance is a show that Elvis fans surely won’t want to miss!

During your vacation in Branson, you will absolutely love the new show that the Showboat Branson Belle has planned for 2011. Encore! features high-flying aerialist Janice Martin perform amazing feats while playing the fiddle and the all-male vocal group The Showmen performing hits from the 60’s to today. Christopher James returns this year as the emcee of each show, delighting audiences with his jokes and magic tricks. This show is appropriate for all ages, so the entire family can enjoy this exciting new show!

You are sure to have a memorable vacation in Branson with all the new shows for 2011! To plan ahead and book lodging as well as tickets to the shows, you can visit BransonShows.com.

If you are planning a winter getaway in Branson and you are a fan of martial arts, be sure to attend Branson Beatdown 5 by Shofight MMA at The Mansion Theatre! You will be in awe of the mixed martial arts skills of the Shofight MMA’s professional fighters. These fighters go through years of rigorous training to master their fighting skills, and you will marvel at their amazing abilities. At the show, you will see fighters that adhere to disciplines including boxing, Chinese kempo, Jui-Jitsu, Karate, American kickboxing, Judo, and Muay Thai kickboxing fight match after match. The fight will take place January 15 at 7 p.m. and is sure to be a thrilling experience!

Branson has even more to offer than its incredible music, comedy, and variety shows, and you will find hours of thrilling fun by visiting the Branson Zipline and Canopy Tours. You can experience the rush of gliding through the Branson outdoors at lightning speeds by taking the Blue Streak Fast Line, or you can take your time enjoying the breathtaking hills and valleys by taking the Ozarks Xplorer Canopy Tour.  Branson Zipline and Canopy Tours is a truly unique experience that your whole family will enjoy!

After a full day of fun Branson activities, relax and be entertained by the awe-inspiring Acrobats of China featuring the New Shanghai Circus. This award-winning show includes gravity-defying acrobatics, aerial ballet, and amazing displays of contortionism. You will marvel at the incredible talent of the Chinese performers as they dive through hoops and display amazing feats of strength and balance. Attending a performance by the Acrobats of China is something you will remember fondly for years to come!

When December ends, many of Branson’s hottest shows will be closed for the season until they re-open in March. This is the perfect time for visitors who are more interested in shopping and museum attractions than shows to come to Branson.

Outlet malls like Tanger and Factory Merchants will still be offering name brand buys at low outlet prices, so bargain hunters can come in and get some great deals. As an added plus, Branson isn’t as crowded during this time, so there won’t be as much traffic to deal with while shopping. Some of the brands offered at these outlet malls include Coach Factory, Liz Clairborne New York, Gap Outlet, Banana Republic Factory Store, and Bath & Body Works. There is something for everyone’s tastes, so a trip with the whole family for more clothing and accessories will be time well spent.

In addition, several of the area’s popular museum attractions like Titanic, Hollywood Wax Museum, and The World’s Largest Toy Museum will still be available. Guests who can spend hours exploring each museum will find that this is the perfect time to visit. Fewer people will be a the museum, so visitors can take their time looking at each exhibit in peace.

If you plan on visiting Branson during the slower season to do some shopping or check out the museum attractions, visit BransonShows.com to compare prices and book lodging or get your museum tickets in advance.

Everyone who has been to Silver Dollar City the past few weeks can agree that Silver Dollar City’s annual National Harvest Festival has been a blast. This upcoming weekend, the National Harvest Festival is coming to an end as Silver Dollar City prepares for An Old Time Christmas celebration. Lights will decorate every imaginable surface the park, and the park’s 5-story special effects Christmas tree will be assembled just in time for the park to re-open on November 6th. The Christmas event will last through the holidays to December 30th when the park will close for the season.

Silver Dollar City has numerous special features for guests to enjoy during their holiday visit. Wonderful productions of shows like The Living Nativity, Frosty!, and A Dickens’ Christmas Carol will be on multiple times each day. The park also has the Gifts of Christmas Holiday Light Parade each year. This parade is a living, moving display of festive lights with over 100,000 lights on the floats and costumes. There are even special treats like hot wassail, chili, hot chocolate, Gingerbread cookies, and apple dumplings. This event has been a favorite Christmas destination for visitors from all over the country for years, and it’s no wonder with all of the Christmas cheer the park has to offer!

Silver Dollar City isn’t the only place that has a special holiday celebration planned. There are also many Branson Christmas Shows that will begin around the same time An Old Time Christmas begins. Make sure to check them out, so you can have a full holiday celebration this year.

For those who have been following America’s Got Talent, the face of winner, Michael Grimm, is well-known and perhaps well-loved. For those living in Branson, the face of Micheal Grimm may have been well-known before he went to compete on America’s Got Talent. For a year before his big win on the popular television series, Michael Grimm was a part of the Righteous Brothers’ Bill Medley Show. As a singer on the Branson show, he had already established himself in the area as a talented singer in the eyes of many.

Michael Grimm wanted to compete on America’s Got Talent to see how far he could make it on his own, and it quickly became obvious that he was destined to move on and gain more popularity from his audition where he sang “You Don’t Know Me.” After being told he wouldn’t be able to perform on the show the year before, Michael Grimm proved that tenacity can really pay off when he went from previously being rejected from the show to winning the show the next year.

Bill Medley was very pleased to learn of the success of Michael Grimm and says that every bit of the success that Grimm has achieved has been deserved. McKenna Medley expressed the same delight and is quoted as being too excited to even speak after seeing Grimm announced as the winner. It’s not too surprising considering their excitement over his achievements, that Bill Medley and Michael Grimm are working together on a few of Grimm’s songs in his next CD.

If you are interested in seeing the Righteous Brothers’ Bill Medley show and seeing the talented artists who performed with Michael Grimm, or you want to learn more about other Branson activities and entertainment, visit BransonShows.com.

Celebrate the 37th Annual Autumn Daze Arts and Crafts Festival from September 16 through the 19th. This craft festival has grown into one of the larger festivals in Branson with over 150 vendors returning to the event each year. Admission is free, and guests are welcome to browse the many hand-crafted and homemade items for sale as well as enjoy the other festivities at their leisure.

This year, the festival is featuring a cooking contest they have named “The Great Pumpkin Cook-off” in which guests are welcome to bring any foods that feature pumpkins for the contest. You may see pies, cookies, and many other different types of pumpkin treats entered in this contest. Rewards for winning the contest include cash prizes and the chance to be included in the festival cookbook.

In addition to the cook-off, guests with children will be happy to find that this year’s festival includes a children’s area. Inflatables, hands-on projects, foods, children’s vendors, and entertainment will give your young ones all the entertainment they need. For adults, there is a street dance, Gospel Jam, and many other activities. It’s safe to say that not a minute of boredom will be experienced by anyone who participates in this festival.

While you’re in Branson enjoying the festival, make sure to check out some of the Branson shows and Branson attractions that helped make Branson the major destination it is today. If you intend to stay in Branson overnight, you may also want to look into some of the wonderful lodging in Branson.

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

Things are officially beginning to heat up in Branson, MO as details on the area’s annual Hot Winter Fun Big Show are beginning to come to light! Set for Monday, February 8 at 7 p.m., this year’s all-star gathering will be held at Dick Clark’s American Bandstand Theater. For the past 15 years, Hot Winter Fun has been an excellent precursor of what to expect out of Branson entertainment for the upcoming year and the talent featured this year is certainly no exception! As of this posting, acts that will be represented throughout the night’s festivities include:

• Jim Stafford
• Legends in Concert
• Hughes Brothers
• Pierce Arrow
• Kirby Van Burch
• Cassandre – Voice of an Angel
• Circle B Chuckwagon Supper & Cowboy Music
• Grand Jubilee
• Keith “Red” Allen
• Ricky Boen & Texas Mud
• Tony Roi
• Smoke on the Mountain
• Always & Forever Patsy Cline
• Buckets N Boards
• Comedy Jamboree
• Red, Hot & Blue
• Rock N Roll is Here to Stay
• Rock U Mentally
• Top 10 Rock and Roll Revue

Each act that is a part of Hot Winter Fun will have approximately 15 minutes to showcase material from their upcoming season, offering a varied look into the always entertaining productions of Branson, MO. Those interested in tickets are encouraged to call 417-339-3003 for more information.

Those planning an entire vacation around Hot Winter Fun are encouraged to browse area lodging at BransonShows.com to easily compare a variety of Branson lodging options and securely reserve rooms for a complete Ozarks experience in 2010!

Branson visitors looking to get a head start on their spring or summer vacation itinerary will find a thrilling new addition to Branson at Branson Zipline and Canopy Tours! As of January 1, Branson Zipline began taking reservations for its inaugural season, which is set to begin May 1. Located just seven miles north of Branson, directly off Highway 65, Branson Zipline will initially offer a few different zipline and canopy tour experiences. From eco-friendly zipline tours that will have guests trekking across the Ozark Mountains canopy via ziplines, bridges and walkways to the thrilling Blue Streak zipline that offers exhilarating speed, there is an experience for one and all. At Branson News, we’ve taken the liberty of highlighting Branson Zipline’s inaugural tour options to give readers a better idea of the adventures that await their 2010 Branson vacation!

Ozarks Xplorer Canopy Tour

The Ozarks Xplorer Canopy Tour is set to last approximately 2.5 hours and will provide a unique introduction into ziplining and the natural beauty of the Ozarks. You will encounter a variety of ziplines, bridges and walkways throughout the experience for an aerial view of the rolling landscape. Every tour will feature one guide for every six participants, providing insight into the area.

Blue Streak Fast Line

If you are looking for heart-pounding thrills, the Blue Streak Fast Line is the option for you! Touted as the longest and fastest zipline featured at Branson Zipline, Blue Streak provides a single adrenaline shot that is perfect for thrill seekers and those looking for a quick zip experience.

Canopy Adventure Combo

Branson Zipline’s Canopy Adventure Combo combines both the Ozarks Xplorer Canopy Tour and Blue Streak Fast Line for a day of action-packed sightseeing. Those that would like to be one of the first to experience all that Branson Zipline initially has to offer will definitely want to reserve the deluxe option.

VIP Zipline Tour

The VIP Zipline Tour follows the Canopy Zipline Tour, though you will have the added privilege of experiencing the course by private party. Just as with the Canopy Tour, you will have at least one guide for every six members of your party and will enjoy the added benefit of your guide’s undivided attention.

Those looking for either lodging or more activities and attractions in Branson, MO are encouraged to visit http://www.bransonshows.com/ to easily browse a variety of Branson vacation reservation options.

Every so often people get the chance to step into a world of magic and wonder. It’s a chance to experience something beyond your everyday life. If this is the kind of experience you’re looking for stop by The Butterfly Palace before January 15 to experience White Flight. Bring the whole family for this magical experience!

The Butterfly Palace creates a special wonderland during the holiday season filled with seasonal music and living angelic statues. These serene statues come to life as thousands of white butterflies float around the Conservatory like snowflakes in the wind. Take your time on the self-guided tour and enjoy every moment of wonder and magic in this winter wonderland.

At The Butterfly Palace, your whole family will enjoy seeing the incredible animals inside the Living Rainforest Science Center or weaving their way through the Emerald Forrest Mirror Maze. You’ll also be treated to a fantastic movie about the lives of the beautiful butterflies you’ve seen in the Conservatory. The best part of the movie is the 3-D presentation!

Don’t miss out on this unique activity in Branson! The white butterflies are only at The Butterfly Palace until January 15, and then they are gone until next Christmas. To learn more about this event, or to order tickets for The Butterfly Palace, please visit the Butterfly Palace page on our website!