Annual Rock’n Ribs BBQ Festival Returns to Springfield, MO

For everyone who loves barbecue and Bass Pro Shops, get ready for some real excitement when the Annual Rock’n Ribs BBQ Festival begins at the Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World in Springfield, MO from April 16th through the 17th. This event is held to raise money for charities each year and features activities like a barbecue competition, live music, and a large variety of entertainment including a petting zoo. Besides the excitement of the event, this Bass Pro Shop location is one of the most interesting to visit because it was the first Bass Pro location to open in 1971.

After eating your fill at the Rockin’ Ribs event, you will want to visit some of the attractions in nearby Branson, Missouri that are popular with the locals of Springfield, MO. The Silver Dollar City theme park is a great favorite of people who live in the area, and people travel from all over the nation to visit this park each year. There is an old-fashioned theme and an old-fashioned atmosphere to the park that transports you back to the 1800s. With foods, rides, and exhibits dedicated to this theme, it’s an unusual park with unusually good entertainment. You can see timeless performances in the various theaters at Silver Dollar City, and you can enjoy natural scenery throughout the park. There is no end to the wonders this park has to offer.

Don’t forget to check out some of the popular Branson shows while you’re visiting. Branson is famous for it’s shows, so you may want to pack them into your trip. You can start your morning with the award winning Branson show Red, Hot… and Blue! This show is sure to start your morning right with performances designed to thrill you. Experience a variety of music and dancing as these world-class performers give you a show you won’t forget. After your morning show wakes you up, visit some of the sights of Branson before seeing one of their legendary night shows.

The Shoji Tabuchi Show has earned its spot as one of the most popular shows in Branson with stellar violin performances by Shoji that you will not be able to see anywhere else. Shoji Tabuchi’s entire family gets in on the music of the show. It’s one evening of music that nobody should miss while they are visiting Branson.

Tea with the Kewpies at Bonniebrook is a Charming Event in Branson, MO

If you love kewpie dolls, you’re going to want to be in the city of Branson, MO April the 24th for Tea with the Kewpies at Bonniebrook. Bonniebrook is a museum and tea house that will be serving light refreshments and providing live entertainment that will be fun for all ages and is free of admission. The artist Rose O’Neill is hosting the event and has arranged for a visit from live Kewpies from Hickman High School for the event. Hickman High School’s mascot is the kewpie, and she will be present as well.

While you’re in the Branson area, don’t miss out on the other great attractions Branson has to offer. See some of the great shows and performers that are unique to Branson and have made Branson famous. See the Shoji Tabuchi Show where Shoji and his family perform wonderful violin music from a variety of genres in a fast-paced, and entertaining show. There’s only one Shoji Tabuchi, and you won’t be able to experience his violin playing anywhere but Branson.

If you’re interested in Kewpie dolls, you may also find yourself interested in the great toy museum located in Branson. The World’s Largest Toy Museum will transport you back to your childhood with its thousands of toys from the past. If you miss your tin soldiers and rag dolls, you will be able to revisit them here at this museum. It’s a place where childhood toys are treasured and remembered for the fun they provided.

IMAX Film Festival Brings the Best Films in the Business to Branson, Missouri

The IMAX Film Festival is an event taking place from March 24th to April 20th in Branson, MO that focuses on showing films made exclusively for the IMAX theater experience. IMAX technology allows viewers to see movies on a larger-than-life scale that is several times bigger than the normal theater screen and delivers crystal-clear images that are far above the standard movie projector quality. Because this event is geared toward IMAX films exclusively, one can be certain that all the films at this festival will be of the highest quality possible. 

The IMAX Theater is one Branson experience that everyone should be involved in. Some of the films are educational and all are entertaining. The Branson IMAX has reclining, high backed chairs and an extremely high-tech sound system. The Branson IMAX Entertainment Complex offers shopping and dinner options before the show for a complete experience. 

Of course, for the ultimate Branson experience, one should also view a live show while in Branson. There are many wonderful shows to choose from such as Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede Dinner and Show which offers a delicious Southern-style meal and an incredible horse show or the Shoji Tabuchi Show which offers the musical styling of the world-famous violinist Shoji Tabuchi and his family. For some morning entertainment try Red, Hot…& Blue which was awarded Best Vocal and Dance Group in Branson.

Winter Entertainment in Branson, MO

While much of Branson may take a hiatus after the holidays that’s not to say that Ozarks visitors can’t enjoy a variety of entertainment options throughout January. Whether looking to take in classic rock hits, down-home country or simply something entertaining, there are a variety of impressive shows to explore if you know where to look. To help you get started on planning your winter getaway to Branson we’ve highlighted a range of shows that will be available throughout the month of January. Read on to find an option that piques your interest and begin planning your Branson vacation today!

Top 10 Rock and Roll Review

Heat up your winter visit to Branson with the new Top 10 Rock and Roll Review. Featuring talented saxophonist and Branson legend Marvelous Marvin Short, the Top 10 Rock and Roll Review offers non-stop rock from the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s for a lively time of entertainment. Jerry Lee Lewis, Buddy Holly, Eric Clapton, the Mamas and Papas and numerous other iconic acts will be covered throughout the performance for a fast-paced night of rock and roll in Branson, MO!

Grand Jubilee

Billed as the Grand Country Theater’s signature show, Grand Jubilee offers an exceptional time of Branson entertainment as New South belts out country hits and gospel classics, and Jamie Haage plays the role of the hilarious Jim Dandy. Add to the evening emcee Mike Patrick, a rotating cast of entertainers and vibrant set design and you have a classic variety show experience! Those looking for a top notch time of variety entertainment will find a little of everything with Grand Jubilee.

Amazing Pets

Those looking for a light-hearted show that is a little out of the ordinary will find just that with Amazing Pets! Hosted by Sean Paul, Amazing Pets features an eclectic cast of cats, dogs, exotic birds and even the talented monkey Frankie as they perform a variety of tricks and stunts. Best of all, the majority of the cast has been rescued from shelters and humane societies for a heart-warming show that will delight audiences of all ages.

Ring in 2010 in Branson, Missouri

As the holiday season wraps up in a couple of weeks, you may be looking for ideas for New Year’s Eve. Why stay at home when you can make the holiday special with a getaway in Branson? Because New Year’s Day falls on a Friday, you can enjoy a long weekend in Branson to celebrate the beginning of 2010. Check out the ideas below for a festive and fun New Year’s Vacation.

Kirby VanBurch’s Magical New Year’s Eve Show

A magical time is sure to be had by all when you make reservations for Kirby VanBurch, Branson’s most popular magic show. For New Year’s Eve, the Kirby VanBurch show hosts a special New Year’s Eve show that features spectacular illusions, tricks, and performances by Kirby VanBurch. During the show you may see people disappearing, assistants being sawed in half, and the Kirby VanBurch Theatre’s furry friends: tigers, leopards, and more! The Kirby VanBurch New Year’s Eve show is sure to be a memorable way to end 2009.

Miracle of Christmas–Last Chance!

If you did not have the opportunity to catch the Miracle of Christmas at the Sight and Sound Theatre before the holidays, you will have one final chance at New Year’s. The show is available both Dec 29 and 30, and if you have the opportunity to go, you should certainly take advantage of it! Miracle of Christmas is easily one of the most popular holiday shows in Branson, and for good reason. Don’t wait until the next holiday season to check out this fantastic production, which features live animals, talented performers, original score, and an incredible state-of-the-art theater.

Showboat Branson Belle Dinner Cruise

If you are looking for a romantic New Year’s Eve activity for two, how do a three course meal, live entertainment, and beautiful views from Table Rock Lake sound? The Showboat Branson Belle has two dinner cruises available on New Year’s Eve. Each dinner cruise includes a delicious three course meal, entertainment from the legendary Todd Oliver, and a relaxing time aboard Table Rock Lake. Because it is New Year’s Eve, you may even see fireworks happening in Branson and around the lake.

Branson’s Most Popular Lodging On The 76 Strip

There are so many Branson hotels to pick from, how is a tired traveler to choose? The easiest way is to take the advice of the travelers who have gone before you. Vacations Made Easy wants to make your vacation as worry-free as possible so we’ve compiled a list of the four most popular hotels along the Highway 76 Strip in Branson. No worries, we’ve got you covered.

Victorian Palace – 2 Stars

The mansions of old have come to life at the Victorian Palace. Modeled after the opulent furnishings of these classic estates, the Victorian Palace provides guests with a luxurious and comfortable stay. With room types ranging from a standard room to the Honeymoon Suite, everyone is sure to find the perfect nights’ rest. While the hotel is fabulous, the highlight is the location. The Victorian Palace sits just off Highway 76, which places you just minutes from all of Branson’s best attractions!

Gazebo Inn – 3 Stars

Hands down one of Branson’s most popular hotels, the Gazebo Inn offers guests a comfortable stay and a superb location. Similar to the Victorian Palace, the Gazebo Inn surrounds guests with Victorian-style decor and architecture. This hotel offers all the amenities you would expect of a three star hotel to ensure a pleasant stay, and the perfect location ensures that you don’t miss a moment of the action while visiting Branson!

1st Inn Branson – 3 Stars

This beautiful inn places you in the serene Ozark Mountains while keeping you in the heart of Branson’s famous entertainment district. The comfortable guest rooms offer an oasis amidst all the action of your Branson vacation. The tasteful decor will leave you rested and relaxed for you full days of excitement. With the amenities you would expect, plus a few that you wouldn’t, the 1st Branson Inn is a popular choice for Branson’s weary travelers.

Castle Rock Resort & Indoor Waterpark – 4 Stars

In the midst of the winter months, what could be more fun than a heated indoor water park? The Castle Rock Resort offers families comfortable accommodations with the added bonus of the much-desired water park. Patrons of all ages can find something to enjoy, whether they’re floating down the lazy river or splashing in the kiddie pool. With the location just off the Highway 76 Strip, guests can enjoy the seclusion of the Ozark Mountains without missing a moment of the action.

Enjoy the perfect Branson  vacation with a room at one of these four great hotels. Whether you’re looking for the convenience or the comfort, we’ve got you covered!

Santa Clause Visits Branson

For most children, Christmas is the best time of year. The season is full of magic and wonder. And cookies. Lots of cookies. Of course, Santa Clause is pretty cool, too.

As in years past, children in the Branson area will be able to enjoy a special Christmas treat the second weekend in December. This year, Santa’s Workshop will be held on December 12 and 13 in historic downtown Branson.  During this two-day event, children will be able to decorate cookies, make ornaments, and even tell Santa their Christmas wishes in person!

If you are planning on being in Branson the weekend of December 12 and 13, don’t let your family miss this chance for holiday memories. The workshop will be open on Saturday from 9 in the morning to 4 in the afternoon and again on Sunday from noon to 4.

Christmas is the perfect time to make family memories, and this is a great opportunity. Share the warmth of the season with your kids this Christmas at Santa’s Workshop in historic downtown Branson!

Reserve Your Tickets Today for Silver Dollar City’s Old Time Christmas

Your 2009 holiday season will be incomplete without a visit to Silver Dollar City’s Old Time Christmas Festival! Hailed as one of the best theme park holiday festivals in the United States, this Christmas celebration offers fun and entertainment for the whole family, from the young to the young at heart.

The Old Time Christmas Festival began on November 7, and it runs until December 30. During the winter months, Silver Dollar City is open Thursday through Sunday, and our two-day tickets are the perfect choice for a fun weekend vacation. During the holiday festival, Silver Dollar City has many special shows and attractions to help get you in the Christmas spirit. Visitors can see the Living Nativity, Frosty, Kris Kringle, and A Dickens’ Christmas Carol and experience world-class singing, dancing, and more.

The undeniable highlight of a Silver Dollar City Christmas is the five-story tall illuminated Christmas tree in the park square. The Christmas tree is the focus of Christmas on Main Street, the park’s light display. The Technicolor tree sparkles with a choreographed routine to some of your favorite holiday tunes. More lights, 100,000 to be exact, can be found on the Gifts of Christmas Holiday Light parade, which can be seen each evening. In total, Silver Dollar City is emblazoned with 4 million lights!

To make planning your vacation to Silver Dollar City and Branson easy, we offer pre-built vacation packages. The Day in Silver Dollar City Package features one night of lodging in Branson as well as tickets to Silver Dollar City, which will give you just enough time to experience everything that Silver Dollar City has to offer.

If you have longer to spend in Branson, A Silver Dollar City Vacation is a better choice for you. With two nights of lodging in Branson and tickets to Silver Dollar City, you will have time to experience the theme park as well as take in some of the other fantastic Branson holiday attractions, including the Trail of Lights and Miracle of Christmas at Sight and Sound Theatre, which can easily be added to your vacation package.

Enjoy Christmas on the Strip This Holiday Season

Although summer has but recently ended and trees still retain most of their leaves, it is still not too early to start planning your Christmas vacation to Branson, Missouri. The theaters will begin preparing soon for their Christmas productions. Typically, most Christmas shows begin playing in November, so you do not have to wait for December to get in the holiday spirit. To make sure that you get the best lodging and seats at these Christmas shows, begin browsing our show selection and make your reservations soon. Following are some of the most popular Christmas shows in Branson, as well as a new favorite to check out.

Andy Williams’ Christmas Show

This perennial classic show continues to be one of the most popular during the Branson Christmas season. The show features Andy Williams, who continues to be an entertaining performer with magnetic stage presence. Williams is joined by fellow performers The Warnock Family and Adagio dancers Pasha and Aliona. The stage of the Moon River Theater is transformed into a winter wonderland. Williams sings classic holiday favorites as well as some of his most famous songs, including Moon River.

Shoji Tabuchi Christmas Show

Shoji Tabuchi is celebrating his 20th year on the Branson strip, and the special Christmas show for the upcoming winter season is sure to continue to wow visitors. The show features the amazing violin skills of Tabuchi and the choreography skills of his wife, Dorothy, to bring together a dazzling Christmas spectacular. Featuring classic holiday songs and festive arrangements, the Shoji Tabuchi Christmas Show is a must-see while in Branson.

Spirit of Christmas

One of the newer shows in Branson, this will be only the second season for this production. However, after the excellent reviews from last season, this show is likely to become one of the most popular Christmas productions in Branson. Spirit of Christmas is at the Branson Variety Theater and features the same talented cast and crew that bring Broadway–A Star Spangle Celebration to life every season. You can expect to be entertained with holiday favorites set to festive and energetic arrangements, all accompanied by world-class choreography and dancing. Start a new Christmas tradition by experiencing the Spirit of Christmas this season!

Catch Upcoming Limited Performances at the RFD-TV Theatre in Branson

The RFD-TV Theatre in Branson has made 2009 a year of unique and entertaining performances, featuring everything from a live production of High School Musical 2 to the Native American show Brule and American Indian Rock Opera. This theatre has several upcoming limited-engagement performances that are truly once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

Pam Tillis and John Anderson

On October 3, these two country music veterans will take the stage at RFD-TV Theatre for one night. Pam Tillis, the daughter of legend Mel Tillis, is a country star in her own right and has been entertaining audiences with original hits since the 1980s. Some of her most popular songs include “Maybe It Was Memphis” and “Shake The Sugar Tree.” John Anderson is also a country legend who has many hits under his belt. Audiences will enjoy his mellow voice as he sings some of his previous hits, which may include “Seminole Wind” and “Look Away.” This duo will only perform on one night, so do not miss out!

Marty Stewart and Connie Smith

This duo of legendary country artists will take the stage for two weekends in October, the 9-10 and 16-17. Marty Stewart is an iconic performer that has many hits from his decades-long career in country music. Some of his popular songs include “Hillbilly Rock,” “If There Ain’t There Oughtta Be,” and “Too Much Month.” Connie Smith is a seasoned country musician and gospel singer who has also been on the scene for many years. Her hits include “Tiny Blue Transistor Radio,” “God Is Abundant,” and “Born To Sing.”

Brule and the American Indian Rock Opera

This show appeared earlier in the summer and was so popular that it was brought back for a limited time in November. This show is available during the first two weeks of November. This show features the vocal talent of Brule and the amazing dancing skills of the American Indian Rock Opera dance troupe. If you missed this entertaining show earlier in the summer, take advantage of the November show times and treat your family to an unforgettable performance!

Next Page »