City: Branson, MO
Category: Annual Events & Festivals
77. Port Of Lights
City: Branson, MO
Category: Annual Events & Festivals
Telephone: (417) 739-2564, (800) 595-0393
Description: The Port of Lights is one of the most spectacular light displays in the state. The 2-mile lighted loop of fantasy at the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Highway 13 Park in Kimberling City is a must-see for all ages, with dozens of colorful animated and artistic displays and a gorgeous, sparkling, 120-foot-long tunnel of snowflakes.
78. Veterans Homecoming
City: Branson, MO
Category: Annual Events & Festivals
Telephone: (800) 999-8839
Description: The week of Veterans Day has become a special event to many of us and our nation’s veterans, as Branson welcomes with open arms all those who have served their country. It’s an opportunity to reflect on our nation’s history, have an old-fashioned parade down the renamed Veterans Boulevard (US Business 65), and give thanks to those who served. The parade is always held on November 11 and begins at 11 a.m. Many of the theaters have a veterans salute, with special tributes and music, that gives meaning to being an American.
79. Annual Adoration Parade And Lighting
City: Branson, MO
Category: Annual Events & Festivals
Telephone: (417) 334-4136, (800) 214-3661
Description: Mark the first Sunday in December for this event. Started in 1948, this noncommercial community parade has grown to include dozens of bands and bugle corps, floats, and antique cars. The event attracts thousands of people from the surrounding areas. The parade starts at 5:30 p.m., and the event climaxes with the lighting of an adoration scene with 40-foot figures atop Mount Branson. If you miss it, you can often catch it the next day on one of the local television stations.
80. First Night
City: Branson, MO
Category: Annual Events & Festivals
Telephone: (417) 831-6200
Description: For over a decade Springfield has thrown a big nonalcoholic New Year’s Eve party that starts early in the afternoon and lasts until the new year. Events are scattered all about town but are centered in the downtown and MSU area. Activities include storytelling, rock, jazz, mimes and clowns, magic, ballet, drama, and stand-up comics. You can walk about, sampling various events and activities, and shuttle buses run between distant activities. A great way to usher in the New Year, this family affair has a single admission fee that gets you an admission button for all events.