While proclaiming Branson, Missouri, as “America’s Most Patriotic City,” Mayor Larry Milton said, “The city of Branson is all about Faith, Family, Flag, and Fun.” He notes that Branson’s emphasis on “Faith, Family, Flag, and Fun” lets potential visitors know the foundation of the entertainment experience they will experience when they visit Branson as compared to other tourist destinations around the country, such as San Franciso, New York City, Las Vegas, New Orleans, Nashville, and others.
Mayor Milton said, “While ‘Faith, Family Flag, and Fun’ and ‘Patriotism’ are integral parts of the fun and entertainment experience Branson offers every day, there is one week of the year that really highlights, in dramatic fashion, what that means to Branson, the first week of November.”
He said that during this week, Branson begins its celebrations of “Ozark Mountain Christmas” and “Veteran’s Homecoming Week.” These two events highlight and proclaim to the world that ‘Faith, Family, Flag, and Fun’ are not just words but vital parts of our community. Milton said he plans to present to the Branson Board of Aldermen with a proclamation declaring the first week in November of each year as “Faith, Family, Flag, and Fun Week” in Branson.
Ozark Mountain Christmas runs annually from November 1 through January 7 of the following year. From the captivating live shows that bring the season to life to the dazzling light displays that transform the town into a winter wonderland, this celebration offers a unique and immersive experience for visitors of all ages. With Branson’s amazing Christmas shows, Silver Dollar City’s Old Time Christmas, the Christmas Tree Trail, millions of twinkling Christmas lights, and shopping as its foundation, Ozark Mountain Christmas is one of the nation’s most acclaimed Christmas events. It is a one-of-a-kind holiday experience that’s unique, fun and entertaining while celebrating and honoring the traditional American Christmas and the reason for the season.
Patriotism and the honoring of Veterans, our active-duty military, and their families are a daily part of the very fiber spirit of Branson. Branson’s Veterans Homecoming week each year leading up to and ending on Veteran’s Day highlights that spirit. It transcends the typical Veteran gatherings by combining fun, honor and appreciation, attracting thousands of Veterans and their families nationwide. Over the years, it has become a poignant reunion for those who served and their families with a variety of events, including honorary banquets, memorial services, parades and gala shows, all designed to recognize and honor the sacrifices and services of Veterans and their families.
In announcing his intent to issue the “Faith, Family, Flag, and Fun Week” proclamation, Milton equated it to Mother’s Day. We honor our mothers every day, but once a year, we show special appreciation. That’s what “Faith, Family, Flag, and Fun Week” does: sets aside one week to show additional appreciation and commitment to what “Faith, Family, Flag, and Fun Week” means to Branson.