Author: ridesparky

Throughout the winter and into the summer months, Branson is the site for some of America's best cheer and dance teams facing off for trophies and national bragging rights! Athleticism, Spirit and Team Work are traits every cheerleader must possess to pull such a big win! Several major competitions are in Branson this year, including: The Worldwide Spirit Association American All Star Nationals takes place at the Hilton Branson Convention Center over the course of two days, February 12-13. Spectators are welcome, cash entrance fees at the door and senior and military discounts are available with I.D. Destination Meet's original meet, the Branson Classic, began in 2014 and quickly established itself as a preeminent event in the region. Hosted at the beautiful Branson Convention Center, in downtown Branson, right across…

January and February are typically slower (and colder) months in Branson. The winter months are a great time to bundle up and visit downtown Branson because many of our downtown businesses are still open, and the warm Sparky trolleys are running on a special schedule. In January and February, the trolley runs from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. on weekends weather permitting. There's also many great events going on in Downtown during the winter months, like cheer and dance tournaments and live Branson Arts Council productions at the Historic Owen Theatre. If you have spent any time in Downtown Branson, then you certainly have seen Sparky; He’s the helpful free trolley, ready to take you to great spots like Historic Main Street, the Branson Landing and the Branson Convention Center.…

This year, make resolutions that aren’t chores. The past couple of years has been rough enough. Who wants to make more fitness or productivity goals? This year make it about you. Make resolutions to do things that will bring you joy. Here are four ideas for enjoying Historic Downtown Branson to get you started on making this year a more fulfilling one. Build bonds with your favorite people Visit historic downtown Branson to build memories with your family and friends. There’s something to entertain everyone.  See a show at the Branson Hot Hits Theatre or enjoy one of the Branson Regional Arts Council’s Broadway-style musicals performed by local actors at the Historic Owen Theater. Follow it with games at Branson Boardgame Cafe or The Escape Branson to bond through teamwork…

‘Tis the season for Christmas coziness and celebrations. For many, the build-up to Christmas is one of the best parts. And the anticipation on the faces of the youngsters fuels the family's fire to make the experience magical. So, if you’re planning to take a magical, holiday getaway to Branson (one of the country’s most Christmas-spirited towns), hop on Sparky the Trolley to take you to these fun Downtown Branson experiences. And keep spirits merry and bright. Branson’s hills are alive with “The Sound of Music” The live theatrical production of the Rodgers & Hammerstein classic “The Sound of Music” will fast become one of your family’s favorite things. Enjoy the Branson Regional Arts Council’s talented local actors in the world’s most beloved musical. The production runs from Sunday, December…

At 12 a.m. on November 1, Branson turns into a Christmas wonderland: festive shows, lights for miles, and a general air of merriment. But if you ask a local, you’ll find the countdown officially begins with the Christmas parade occurring on the first Sunday of December every year. There’s no place like Branson for the holidays Enjoy the 73rd annual Adoration Parade and Lighting Ceremony on Sunday, December 5, 2021, at 5:30 p.m. in Historic Downtown Branson. A 28-foot-tall nativity scene sits high on a bluff on the other side of Lake Taneycomo from Downtown Branson. A couple of Branson locals designed it 73 years ago and it was rebuilt in 2012 to continue the tradition. Every year, it’s illuminated at sundown as the kickoff to The Adoration Parade. The…

Branson is known for honoring veterans and active-duty military every day. Patriotism is one of the pillar values of this small city. It’s one of the many reasons millions of people visit Branson each year.  This year, Branson continues its tradition of honoring United States military heroes with The 89th Annual Veterans Day Parade in historic downtown Branson. Branson’s Veterans Day Parade is a respectful send-off to follow a week of reunions and celebrations. Beginning November 5 each year Branson’s shows, businesses, and groups host an elaborate and memorable tribute to veterans during Veterans Homecoming Week with a series of reunions and special events.  After a week full of reunions, tribute shows, and services expressing sincere appreciation to military heroes, Veterans Homecoming Week winds down with the Veterans Day Parade…

Gather the ghouls and goblins to prep for a night of trick-or-treating or trick-or-greeting in Historic Downtown Branson. The past couple of Halloweens have been lackluster for many. Much of the “magic” was missing and people had to get creative with celebrations. This year, celebrate old traditions married with new with Sparky the Trolley as your guide. Treat yourself to mouth-watering desserts. No tricks necessary. Greeting trick-or-treaters is a tough job. Parting with the fun-sized Reeses and Snickers is even tougher. Hop on Sparky and exit near one of the many nostalgic candy stores downtown. Or, if you want flavors of the season, stop by The Pie Safe for a fall-spiced pie to munch on between the ringing of the doorbell. Tell some spooky bench stories. After visiting some of…

Spouse, house, kids, and a cool car in the garage — Ahhh, yes. It’s the American Dream. Add it to my calendar. Get your nostalgia fix by hopping on Sparky the Trolley to the Branson Convention Center on October 15-16 for the Branson Auctions Vintage Car Auction. Drool over the cars you found yourself daydreaming about.Tickets for the October 15 auction are available starting at 10 a.m. for the 11:30 a.m. auction.  Buy tickets at 8 a.m. on October 16 for the 9:30 a.m. auction.  Pay $15 for a 1-day entry fee or $25 for 2 days. People with a military ID can pay $10 for one day or $15 for 2 days.  Show me the cars. There are 158 boats trucks motorcycles and cool vintage cars. Picture yourself cruising…

The inevitable end of summer is here.  Labor Day weekend was the last hurrah of summer. Schools have been in session for a couple of weeks now. And getting into the fall routine takes its toll on your frazzled nerves.  The next sizable break is Thanksgiving, and it feels a long way off. And even then, the holidays aren’t very relaxing, are they? Joyful? Yes. Relaxing? No. Recharge now to prepare for a bustling holiday season.  Too stressed to plan it yourself? Don’t worry. We’ve planned it for you. Start your day with a recharge. Late summer and early autumn mornings are glorious in Ozark Mountain Country. Take advantage of the fresh air and beautiful views with the morning rays glistening on the water.  Walk along the lakefront by the…

* NOTE: Artist's rendering. Trolleys can't fly or travel backwards through time. Sparky the Trolley can take you back in time, to Broadway-style shows, and to art galleries and stores. OK. The trolley isn't a DeLorean-esque time machine. It can't travel at 88 MPH and despite our best efforts it can't fly. But it can take you back in time to some amazing forms of arts and entertainment that are alive and well in Historic Downtown Branson. Many are surprised when they experience the rare world-class talent that abounds in the Ozarks. The music will take you back. Branson Hot Hits Theater has shows for all ages. They’re uniquely nostalgic for anyone who grew up loving music from the ‘50s through the ‘80s. Close your eyes and get swept away!…