Come and Enjoy Summer Fun In Branson in 2011

The Associated Press calls Branson "one of the top family destinations in the country" and for good reason. There are three lakes offering an abundance of recreational opportunities from water skiing, jet skiing, parasailing, wakeboarding and scuba diving to fly fishing or catching that big lunker.

In addition, a line-up of family-friendly live shows and attractions gives groups and individual vacationers' affordable fun at interactive exhibits, festivals, waterparks and mini-golf courses.

It's easy to plan a fun-filled vacation packed with outdoor recreation, theme parks, shopping, dining, amusement centers, attractions and more live shows than anywhere in the country! And with the new Branson airport, located just 10 miles south of Branson, groups and individual clients now have a more convenient way to travel to Branson with some of the lowest fares available.
 

AirTran Airways shareholders approve merger with Southwest Airlines

In May of 2009 the Branson Airport opened its doors and began offering discount air service into Branson provided by AirTran. In September of 2010, Southwest Airlines announced that it entered into a definitive agreement to acquire all of the outstanding common stock of AirTran Airways. Southwest has said combining with AirTran will serve more than 100 destinations, including four new airports added by the carriers in 2011. More information and updates about Southwest Airlines coming in the next issue of the Branson Buzz.

America's Most Stress-Free Airports

Branson is listed as one of the top three stress-free airports in the nation. New on the scene, the privately owned Branson airport may make you forget you're in an airport at all. Designed to evoke a rustic lodge, the Branson airport features exposed wood beams, a water wheel, a general store, and a barbecue restaurant. The staff makes customer service a priority, from arrival to departure: Greeters welcome travelers the moment they enter the building, and employees with a free minute will come out to the runway for the "Branson Wave" to say goodbye to a departing plane. For those returning rental cars, porters arrive to courier travelers' bags straight from the trunk, making the experience less cumbersome. Additionally, many staff members are cross-trained to serve a variety of functions, so travelers can expect short wait times and attentive service, regardless of need or inquiry.

AirTran Airways Flies Nonstop to Branson from Chicago Midway

The air service is offered nonstop service to and from Branson on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday. Midway International Airport is conveniently located 10 miles from downtown Chicago. The Chicago Department of Aviation celebrated the completion of the historic Midway Airport Terminal Development Program, an eight year program that transformed Chicago's southwest side airport.

Silver Dollar City's Bluegrass & BBQ May 12 - 30, 2011

Bluegrass & BBQ is America's premier bluegrass and barbecue event that includes top names in bluegrass music and hundreds of performances, along with the House of BBQ. Try the nation's most popular flavors  from Memphis dry rubs and sweet and tangy Carolina vinegars to smoky Texas-style tastes and the Midwest's own Kansas City-style meats. Come hungry and sink your teeth into this smokin' all-American pastime. Performers include award winners, Rhonda Vincent, The Grascals and IIIrd Type Out, plus two national competitions.

Branson Hosts New Event - Armed Forces Day Celebration

Come to Branson May 20- 21 for a new two-day tribute to our active-duty Armed Forces. Of course, Branson honors America's Armed Forces and Veterans every day, but this new event gives those servicemen and women and their families an opportunity to reunite with others from all branches.

Paul Harris Featuring The Cleverlys Moves to The Oak Ridge Boys Theater

Comedian Paul Harris will perform his show along with the World-Famous Cleverlys at the prestigious Oak Ridge Boys Theatre for the 2011 season. He has been cutting his comedy teeth on Branson stages, even headlining his own show, for several years and at the same time making quite a name for himself on the mid-South comedy circuit.  He attributes a lot of his material to his family, friends and world events. Harris is also an accomplished musician having recently had his family bluegrass band, The Cleverlys performing at various music festivals across the country. The Cleverlys have become a YouTube sensation and have gotten a lot of international attention.

New Dinner Experience at The Legend of Kung Fu Show

Enjoy an enticing Chinese experience with The Legend of Kung Fu at The White House Theatre in 2011 with their new dinner selection!  Before the show take pleasure in a three-course Chinese meal, topped off with Kung Fu cupcakes. The Legend of Kung Fu opened in Branson in 2010 and has amazed audiences worldwide with its unique combination of traditional martial arts skills, aerial ballet, dance and music. Designated as the main show of the 2008 Beijing Olympics, Chun Yi -The Legend of Kung Fu has been performed more than 3000 times worldwide. With a cast of 65 performers, it is one of the largest theatrical productions in Branson, immersing audiences in magnificent scenery, lighting, sound and special effects as the tale unfolds.

Don Williams Comes Back To Branson October 22 at 7:00 pm

When he retired five years ago, Don Williams had no plans to take the stage again. That changed last year with the announcement that he would be entering the Country Music Hall of Fame. His fans kept asking Don to perform again. As an artist who always appreciated the tremendous support of his fans, Williams decided to perform a handful of shows to say "thank you" for giving him an incredible career. When Don decided to include Branson as one of his few concerts, fans were thrilled to be able to see and hear this amazing performer one more time. The show begins at 7:00 pm at Tri-Lakes Center in Branson.

2011 is the Last Chance to see "Noah -The Musical" in Branson

Sight & Sound Theatres is thrilled to be celebrating 35 years of bringing the Bible to life. Join their year-long celebration that reflects on the theatres' heritage and casts a vision for a bright and spectacular future.  For a limited time, through June 2011, you can purchase the anniversary tickets in Branson for only $35.00 plus tax. This is the last chance to see "Noah - The Musical."

Yakov's 19th Season In Branson Features New Dinner Production

The Yakov Branson Theater presents its newest production, Yakov's Dinner Adventure, created, produced and narrated by Yakov. He leads you on this incredible journey inspired by a true story via big screen video. Enjoy performances by outstanding acts that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The menu is beef brisket, chicken breast, Yukon Gold potatoes, Tomato and Smoked Gouda Bisque and dessert. Guests dine on tray tables at their seats.

Exhibits at Bonniebrook Honors Women

The Missouri Women's Council exhibit, "Outstanding Women of Missouri," features 60 Missouri women who made a difference. The exhibit opens Saturday, May 7th and runs thru through June 30th, at Booniebrook, the home of Rose O'Neill. The museum houses hundreds of dolls and other memorabilia belonging to Rose and her era along with artifacts pertinent to her life and Bonniebrook.

Legends in Concert Hosts Michael Jackson Tribute Week in June

The Michael Jackson Tribute Week at the Legends in Concert show is June 18-25, 2011. Internationally acclaimed Legends In Concert is known as the pioneer of live celebrity impersonator shows and possesses the greatest collection of celebrity tributes ever assembled. Featuring live concert shows of famous musicians and celebrities of yesterday and today. With an always-evolving cast of legendary superstars with original choreography and extravagant costumes, Legends In Concert is the original and largest live celebrity tribute show in the world.

Comedy Jamboree Returns for an 8th Great Season

The Comedy Jamboree is celebrating its 8th season at the The Grand Country Music Hall and features hilarious comedy acts, talented vocalists, and "the best band in Branson," this show has everything you want. The show plays Monday through Saturday throughout the 2011 season. In addition you can enjoy a great meal at the Grand Country Buffet before or after the show, located in the same building as the Comedy Jamboree. 

Glen Campbell Performs in Branson for Final Concert

Country Music Legend Glen Campbell will be making his final appearance in Branson this fall. Glen's new CD "Ghost On The Canvas" will be released this summer and his tour will be a "thank you" to his millions of fans. Opening for Glen each evening will be Restless Heart. Branson is honored to be chosen to host this farewell concert. The last Branson concerts of his career will be Friday, December 2 and Saturday, December 3, 7:00pm each night at Tri-Lakes Center. Tickets will go on sale May 25 at Tri-Lakes Center.

See The World In Branson Returns in 2012 with Two-Day Music Fest

Guest Stars are being confirmed to be a part of the 2012 See The World In Branson Music Fest.  These star headliners will complement the abundant first-class line-up of talent that will take center stage at the Welk Resort during the two-day Music Fest, April 25 & 26, 2012.  Prior to the matinee showcase each day there will be a themed marketplace where attendees have the opportunity to stroll through booths representing Countries from around the World. Contests, games, prizes, and autograph sessions will be held within the marketplace. See The World In Branson is an area-wide festival highlighting the vast amount of Internationally inspired entertainment, attractions, and cuisine available to visitors in the Branson area. See The World In Branson is held annually during the months of April and May. It is one of the special events featured during our Ozark Mountain Spring. 

"Joseph" Premiere Season Opens in Branson April 14 through December 29, 2012

Joseph, a never-before-seen, original production that premiered on the Lancaster County stage in 2010, has quickly become a new favorite among patrons. Joseph's story has taken flight onstage and like his famous coat, a brilliant color scheme has been woven into this production with truly extraordinary music, costumes, special effects, sets and animals. Most importantly, Joseph's epic story presents a powerful example of character and forgiveness. Joseph premiers in Branson April 14, 2012 and runs through December 29.

Cruise To Alaska with Jim Stafford in 2012

The Alaska Fan Cruise with Jim Stafford is scheduled for August 25- September 1, 2012. This seven-day Alaskan Explorer Cruise will be aboard the Holland America Line MS Westerdam. The cruise includes six ports of call, a private meet ‘n' greet with Jim, exclusive show by Jim and more.

Branson is the place to plan packaged travel in 2011.

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