Trip Ideas

The popular Branson Festival of Trees is returning to the Branson Landing for 2020. Now in its fourth year, the indoor tree and wreath exposition help spread Christmas cheer, but the accompanying decoration sale benefits Christian Action Ministries, which operates food pantries and mobile food outreach in Taney County. Shoppers can find unique and handmade ornaments, wreaths and other decorations ... and of course fully decorated trees! The trees are decorated and donated by local businesses and individuals. The Festival of Trees is located at Suite 309 (next to Build-A-Bear Workshop) on the Branson Landing Promenade. The event continues through Nov. 29, 2020. Branson - America's Christmas Tree City Branson is home to more than 700 elaborate Christmas trees and in recent years has become known as America's Christmas Tree…

It’s been a Branson tradition dating all the way back to the first parade held here marking Armistice Day and honoring our WWI veterans. No doubt one of the greatest and most meaningful events held in Branson every year, the downtown Veterans Day Parade is now in its 88th year. This solemn observance has grown and become one of the largest Veterans Day observances in the country, drawing thousands of veterans and their families from across America. In recent years, it has been organized by Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 913. The parade is also the closing event for what has become known as Veterans Week, which begins Nov. 5 each year and pays tribute to America's heroes with a series of reunions and special events. Join us downtown as…

Jim and Kathy Cox are back once again with Downtown Branson’s twice-a-year Branson Auction. Undoubtedly the region’s top event for viewing (and buying) unique vehicles. The Spring auction in April was cancelled because of concerns about COVID-19, but the fall auction has returned with new safety protocols and with an expanded Internet presence. If you love cars, you’ll want to be sure to join the enthusiasts, collectors, and restoration fans October 16th and 17th for this popular event at the Branson Convention Center. And be sure to ride throughout Downtown on the Sparky Trolley, which stops on Sycamore Street directly outside the Convention Center. New to 2020 are the COVID 19 social distancing and mask requirements. Luckily this year there is the option for online bidding! How convenient, right? It’s…

Parakeet Pete's Waterfront Zipline Fall is finally here, and the crisp cool days make for the perfect time to get outdoors and enjoy the beautiful foliage and sights in Downtown Branson! Whether taking in the vibrant red, yellow and brown of the hills reflected on picturesque Lake Taneycomo, going for a stroll or just relaxing on a park bench with a book, it’s easy to see why this season is a favorite with many Branson visitors. Here are some fun fall-themed activities you can enjoy without ever leaving the downtown area. Walk along the Branson Landing Boardwalk This level, paved walkway is more than 1-mile long and features many scenic spots along the Taneycomo lakefront. You’ll see plenty of ducks, geese along the way, as well as great views of…

2020 has been a challenging year for everyone, but the financial implications of the pandemic have disproportionately affected small businesses and the many people who work for those companies. Downtown Branson is a community of nearly 200 locally owned businesses spanning retail, dining, lodging, entertainment and professional services. Here are some suggestions about how you can help your favorite Downtown Branson establishment (or any small business anywhere that you are passionate about). Directory of Downtown Businesses Shop The Store Online Most small retailers sell some or all of their merchandise online, either through their website or on Facebook or Instagram. You'll discover great products that you might not have noticed in the store, and many small retailers offer convenient return and exchange policies if you buy items directly from them.…

Labor Day in Branson is a great opportunity to enjoy the beautiful outdoors in Historic Downtown Branson, and also to get in some shopping for end-of-season sales! Be sure to ride the Sparky trolleys to get around as you travel from Lake Taneycomo to Branson Landing to historic Main Street and the nearby shops and artisans. While the usual Branson Landing summer concert series has been suspended to help visitors maintain social distance, there are still plenty of things to do in downtown, including watching the fire and water fountain show, walking along the boardwalk, or getting out on the water in kayak or on a paddleboard. Outside of Downtown: Chateau on the Lake will host its annual Labor Day fireworks celebration on Sunday, Sept. 6, at dusk. The presentation…

Without a doubt, 2020 is the strangest back-to-school season anybody can remember. Whether kids are doing in-person learning, online learning or homeschooling, parents are likely to still need supplies, gadgets and new clothes for their little students. Just in time for back-to-whatever, it's also time for the Missouri State Tax-Free Weekend! In 2020, the Sales Tax Holiday begins at 12:01 a.m. on Friday, August 7, and runs through Sunday, August 9. Before we go any further, we need to jump into the fine print. The Missouri Back To School Tax Free Weekend only applies to "certain back-to-school purchases, such as clothing, school supplies, computers" and other related school necessities. Around Branson you'll still pay local taxes, but the Missouri portion of the sales tax that you'd normally pay (about 4.2%) is waived. Even…

The waterfall and picnic area at Liberty Plaza There's never been a better time to get out and enjoy the Great Outdoors, and in Downtown Branson our outdoors are truly wonderful! And why not let Sparky help get you there? Here is a list of the best parks in Downtown Branson ... all conveniently located within walking distance of Sparky stops. Each one features something unique, that sets it apart from the other. Fountains, bathrooms, disc golf, outdoor stages; the only thing missing is the ice cream cart. But we’ve got that covered in Downtown also! North Beach Park, 401 Eastlake St. Located about 200 yards from Trolley Stop #7 A total of 4.2 acres featuring walking paths, horseshoe pits, lake access, two fishing docks, picnic tables, and BBQ grills.…

Tasty summer treats from Dreamsicles in Historic Downtown Branson. Oh Summer ... that midwestern heat and humidity is something else, isn’t it? Downtown Branson has too many shops and flea markets and museums that still need exploring, so there's no reason to let the heat keep you at home or in your hotel. Besides, who is going to eat all the cold and sweet treats in Downtown if we don’t? Don’t fret! When you need to go Downtown, whether it’s in the Historic District or the famous Branson Landing, you can find relief from the heat (and an easy way to get around) on Sparky. As he circles the downtown route, he brings with him the gift of air conditioning! Hitting each stop about once every 30 minutes, you are…

The 13th Annual Liberty Light Up celebration is Friday, July 3! Great music, fireworks and The Branson Landing; what more could anyone ask for as we celebrate our great nation and its Independence Day? The Branson Landing is famous across the Nation, and for good reason! The fire and light show was designed and orchestrated by the same people responsible for the famous Bellagio Fountain in Las Vegas. It’s a show you don’t want to miss! With updated city laws on open container alcohol on The Landing, you can now enjoy an adult beverage while watching the spectacular fire and water show, live music and fireworks. Make a plan to join us as we watch the night sky brought to brilliant colorful display! Schedule of Events for the evening: 4:30…