Why Branson
Christmas in Branson
From stunning light displays to festive shows and family-friendly activities, Branson’s Christmas season offers something for everyone. The city’s charm combined with holiday decor creates a magical atmosphere that draws visitors from across the country.
Top Christmas Attractions in Branson
1. Silver Dollar City’s An Old Time Christmas
Silver Dollar City is known for going all out with holiday decor, turning its 1880s-themed park into a holiday spectacle. An Old Time Christmas features over 6.5 million lights, a five-story Christmas tree with synchronized lights and music, and plenty of holiday treats.
- Christmas in Midtown: A highlight of Silver Dollar City’s celebration, this light display fills the park with brilliant colors and animated displays. Guests can stroll through the lights, making it a perfect photo op.
- Rides and Festive Shows: For those who want a bit more thrill, many of the rides stay open during the holiday season. Don’t miss the Christmas shows like "A Dickens’ Christmas Carol" and "It’s A Wonderful Life," which bring timeless holiday stories to life.
Silver Dollar City’s attractions make it a huge draw, so properties close to the park are in high demand, especially during the holidays.

2. Branson Landing’s Winter Wonderlanding
Branson Landing is transformed during the holiday season with a giant Christmas tree, holiday lights, and plenty of shopping and dining options to keep visitors entertained. The fountain light show becomes a holiday-themed performance, featuring synchronized lights, music, and even fire.
- Holiday Shopping: Guests can take advantage of the shopping at Branson Landing’s variety of stores, perfect for holiday gifts. Property listings near Branson Landing are a great choice for those who love convenience and walkable attractions.
- Santa’s Wonderland: Santa makes regular appearances, creating a fantastic family-friendly photo op for guests. This festive atmosphere adds to Branson Landing’s appeal, making it a big draw for holiday travelers.
3. Drive-Through Light Displays
For those who enjoy holiday lights from the comfort of their car, Branson offers a few top-notch drive-through light displays that attract families and groups:
- Branson’s Lights of Joy: Located on Shepherd of the Hills Expressway, this drive-through light display offers over 1.5 miles of twinkling lights and animated displays. It’s a local favorite that brings a nostalgic touch to holiday evenings.
- Shepherd of the Hills Trail of Lights: This historic attraction offers a unique experience with lights and displays that highlight both Christmas themes and local history. Set on a winding path through Shepherd of the Hills, the Trail of Lights is a memorable holiday attraction.
Highlighting properties located near these popular displays can attract guests who want easy access to Branson’s holiday spirit.
4. The Polar Express Train Ride
A beloved family experience, the Polar Express Train Ride takes guests on a magical journey to the North Pole, inspired by the classic Christmas story. Departing from the Branson Scenic Railway, this experience is packed with Christmas decor, holiday music, and even hot chocolate served by the “train conductors.”
- Themed Train Ride: Children are encouraged to come in pajamas, and they even get a visit from Santa. The Polar Express experience appeals to families with kids and anyone wanting a touch of nostalgia.
- Draw for Families: If you have a property near Branson Scenic Railway, highlighting proximity to the Polar Express experience can be a big plus for families booking holiday stays.
Branson’s Festive Christmas Shows
Branson is famous for its live entertainment, and the holiday season is no exception. Many theaters offer Christmas-themed shows, with a mix of music, comedy, and festive storytelling.
- Dolly Parton’s Stampede Christmas Show: This family-friendly show combines holiday music, incredible horse-riding stunts, and even a live nativity scene. Guests get to enjoy a delicious Southern-style dinner while taking in the show, making it a full holiday experience.
- The Haygoods Christmas Show: Known for their high-energy performances, The Haygoods incorporate holiday classics with their signature style. Their show appeals to families, music lovers, and guests looking for a unique twist on traditional Christmas music.
For property owners, being centrally located near Branson’s theater district means guests can enjoy these shows without long drives. Mentioning proximity to Branson’s entertainment scene can add great value to your property listing.
Seasonal Activities: Branson’s Holiday Markets and Festivities
Holiday markets and seasonal activities add even more to the festive spirit in Branson:
- Kringles Christmas Store: Located in The Grand Village Shops, Kringles is the largest Christmas store in Missouri. With an incredible selection of ornaments, decorations, and unique gifts, it’s a must-visit for holiday shoppers.
- An Old Time Christmas Parade: Visitors can catch this festive parade featuring Santa, elves, and holiday floats. This family-friendly parade adds an extra dose of holiday spirit to Silver Dollar City.
Highlighting easy access to these unique attractions can add major appeal to your property for holiday travelers looking to experience Branson’s best.
Why Christmas is an Ideal Time for Branson Property Rentals
With Branson’s holiday season drawing so many visitors, properties here experience a high demand from Thanksgiving through New Year’s. By preparing your property and showcasing its proximity to Branson’s top holiday events, you can capture the attention of travelers seeking a festive getaway.
Marketing Tips for Your Holiday Property Listing
- Highlight Proximity to Major Attractions: Mention how close your property is to popular spots like Silver Dollar City, Branson Landing, and the theater district. Guests value convenience, especially in the holiday season when events are plentiful.
- Decorate for the Holidays: Adding holiday decor to your property can enhance the guest experience, creating a cozy and festive atmosphere that feels like home.
- Offer Holiday Specials: Consider offering a discount for longer stays or a holiday-themed welcome basket to stand out to guests booking for the season.