Branson Summer Events: Where to Party With Family and Locals
With a focus on family fun and affordability, Branson ranks as one of the best value destinations by Trivago. That includes during high travel times, too. Therefore, those taking a Branson summer vacation find both money-saving deals and fun festivals that delight the family. Read to learn about the top Branson summer events and gear up for fun and Ozark culture.
Branson Summer Events to Celebrate With Loved Ones
Star-Spangled Summer Festival (June-July)
Hosted by Silver Dollar City, one of the top attractions in Branson, visitors can’t miss Star-Spangled Summer Festival. Packed full of family-friendly entertainment, the festival runs from early June to mid-July. This festival has even featured the Harlem Globetrotters and their mad basketball skills. Other fun things to do include photo ops with cartoon characters, a kid-focused buffet in the Reunion Hall and storytelling at Half Dollar Holler.
Silver Dollar City houses more than 40 rides and attractions, and summer brings championship cloggers, games and contests.
Silver Dollar City Food Days (June and July)
Part of the Star-Spangled fest, foodies celebrate both summer fun and rich flavors at Silver Dollar City Food Days. Held twice during the summer, attendees find their favorite amusement park foods made with new recipes. Try new spins on funnel cakes, cinnamon rolls, kettle corn and more. The Food Days event is one of several celebrating Branson’s food and crafts scene.
Other popular foodie events include Bluegrass and BBQ Festival in May and Moonlight Madness in July. While trying delicious dishes, browse dozens of local artisans specializing in handcrafted treasures.
Fireburst (July)
Beach destinations aren’t the only places that blast fireworks over water. In Branson, head to Table Rock Lake for Fireburst, an annual boat and fireworks show. This free event welcomes guests to bring their lawn chairs and see more than 1,000 boats, a 30-minute show, play games and enjoy fun with loved ones.
Fireburst ranks among the top Branson summer events and one of the largest July Fourth celebrations in southwest Missouri. Families also enjoy live entertainment, vendors and concessions, and the show can be seen via bike, boat or car.
Liberty Light Up Concert and Fireworks (July)
For more than 10 years, the annual Liberty Light Up Concert and Fireworks at Branson Landing has delighted all ages. Branson Landing – an entertainment district packed full of shops, restaurants and attractions – hosts family-friendly events in downtown Branson.
Start the night off with a Liberty Light Up Concert, followed by a choreographed fireworks display over Lake Taneycomo. The show draws thousands of attendees, so prepare for big crowds.
Branson Fly Fishing Expo (July)
Due to its Ozark Mountain location, Branson offers some of the best fly fishing in the area. One way to see the sport’s best is to attend the Branson Fly Fishing Expo in late July.
Sponsored by Missouri Trout Fishermen’s Association, this event features fly-casting and -tying demos, raffles, and auctions. For around $5 per family, groups enjoy affordable outdoor fun and observe some of the best fishermen in the sport. Don’t miss the chance to try local foods and buy gifts from area vendors at the expo.
Southern Gospel Picnic (August-September)
Late August and early September welcome gospel fans to Southern Gospel Picnic at Silver Dollar City. One of the top southern gospel events in the U.S., festival-goers enjoy big acts, Southern comfort food and family activities.
Picnics occur at various locations throughout Branson, featuring more than 50 singers and groups. To sample the best flavors, head to Reunion Hall for an old-fashioned feast with chicken, veggie sides, a salad bar and dessert.
Show N’ Shine (September)
Shepherd’s Show N’ Shine ranks as Branson’s top car event and occurs during a full weekend in September. This annual celebration draws car lovers from all over to Show ‘n’ Shine, which features 500-plus cars and trucks on display. To attend, ahead to Shepherd of the Hills Historic Homestead, a top spot for Branson history. Other fun activities include taking pictures, an outdoor drama performance, best in show awards and the midnight cruise.
Bonus: Branson Farmers Market (April-October)
Those vacationing in Branson from April to October, should visit the farmers market located at Branson Landing near Lake Taneycomo Bridge. Market visitors enjoy free admission, homegrown products, locally made items, balloon artists, tattoo artists and live music. Don’t forget to pick up souvenirs to take home.
Planning to attend these Branson summer events? Check out available rentals. Then discover Branson outdoor adventures families enjoy on vacation.