Branson loves nothing more than a good celebration, and there isn’t a better holiday to celebrate than Independence Day! From the food to the fireworks, there’s something going on the entire week preceding the 4th of July. The only trouble you’ll have is deciding which celebration to choose!
Kicking things off the 28th annual Honor America celebration held on the scenic campus of the College of the Ozarks. This family-friendly party is free to the public and features games, music, and a fireworks presentation that is second to none. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and claim a spot near the shore of College of the Ozarks’ iconic Lake Honor. Be sure to get there in plenty of time for the BBQ Picni, which runs from 5:30-7:45 p.m. Children’s activities like face painting, balloons, and arts and crafts will run until 7:30p.m. While the kids are having fun, the adults in your group can sit back and listen to some of the Ozarks’ favorite local bands. Musical performances will include the Hunt Family Band, Red, Hot… and Blue!, and AYO Voices of Glory. At 8 p.m. there will be a patriotic program including the Presentation of Colors and a performance by the College of the Ozarks Concert Band. The concert band will also underscore the fireworks presentation which begins at dusk.
July 1 brings Kimberling City’s annual Independence Day blowout, Fireburst! This traditional celebration includes one of the best fireworks displays in the area which can be seen from almost anywhere in Kimberling City. With the town’s location on the shores of Table Rock Lake, many people choose to view the fireworks display from the comfort of their boat!
One of Branson’s newest hotspots, the Sky Deck, is hosting Fire in the Sky on July 3. This exclusive event offers delicious food, a cash bar, live music by the Steve Moeller Band, as well as an unparalleled view of the fireworks at Branson Landing. Space is limited, so make your reservation for Fire in the Sky soon.
Branson Landing has several events planned to celebrate the holiday. It all starts with the 10th annual Liberty Light Up Concert and Fireworks on July 3 at the Branson Landing amphitheater. This Ozarks tradition is free to the public and features a live concert by Jason Pritchett and a choreographed fireworks display beginning at sundown. Then, July 4 is the 17th annual Firecracker 5000 Run. This 5 or 10K run along the shores of Lake Taneycomo starts at 7:30 a.m. and benefits several local charities.
There are several Independence Day celebrations on July 4 including the city of Hollister’s 64th annual fireworks display and fireworks presentations at both Top of the Rock and Chateau on the Lake. Several of Branson’s live entertainment venues also have shows celebrating our nation’s independence; most notably is the It show at the Hughes Brothers Theater. Bring your family for kids’ games and delicious food starting at 1:00 p.m. and stay for the special patriotic show at 3:00 p.m. The show will end in plenty of time for you to catch a fireworks display.
There’s not another city around that’s as patriotic as Branson, Missouri, which makes it the perfect place to celebrate Independence Day in style. We’ll look forward to seeing you on the 4th of July!
