Branson families can look forward to a festive kickoff this weekend as Silver Dollar City opens its An Old Time Christmas celebration on Saturday, Nov. 7, 2026. The park has added a brand‑new Stars, Lights & Christmas Nights Parade that runs twice the length of the previous holiday parade, offering fresh floats, costumes and beloved characters such as Rudolph, Yukon Cornelius and the Misfit Toys.
Parade and lighting displays
Visitors will be invited to hand letters to Santa’s elves along the parade route, and the procession will conclude with a traditional Nativity scene. Beyond the parade, more than 6.5 million holiday lights will illuminate the park, including the 1.5 million‑light “Christmas in Midtown” display. An eight‑story tree in Joy on Town Square will pair lights with music, while the 54‑foot Grand Fir in The Plaza returns for nightly lighting ceremonies.
Shows, music and holiday traditions
The holiday lineup also includes a 25th‑anniversary performance of A Dickens’ Christmas Carol, the Heart of Christmas concerts featuring bluegrass and gospel music, and a Living Nativity. Additional attractions are Tinker Junior’s Toy Shop, the Frisco Sing‑Along Steam Train and a variety of seasonal shows. Guests can check the daily schedule or use the park’s app for real‑time updates.
Food, dining and special experiences
For a culinary break, the park offers a seasonal menu with hearty soups, mashed‑potato bowls and sweets. A Christmas Tasting Ticket, priced at $38 plus tax, provides five tasting‑size items such as apple dumplings with cinnamon sauce, peppermint ice cream and hot chocolate. Admission to the park is required and is not included in the tasting ticket.
Families wishing to dine with Santa can reserve a Lunch With Santa experience on select dates from Nov. 14 through Dec. 23. This option is sold separately from park admission.
Practical information for visitors
Location: Silver Dollar City, 399 Silver Dollar City Parkway, Branson, Missouri.
Dates: Nov. 7, 2026 – Jan. 2, 2027 (select operating days). The park will be closed on Nov. 10‑11, 17‑18 and 24, and Dec. 1‑2, 8‑9, 15‑16, 24‑25.
Hours: Opening day runs 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.; most other days are 1 p.m. – 9 p.m., with extended hours on select Saturdays and Fridays.
Tickets: One‑day tickets start at $79 plus tax for online purchases made at least 24 hours in advance; flexible tickets are $95 plus tax. Children three and younger enter free; senior and child discounts are available.
Special offers: “Merry Mondays” tickets are $79 plus tax for Nov. 9, 16, 23 and 30.
Parking: Standard parking is free with tram and bus service to the entrance; paid upgrades are available.
Family amenities: Stroller rentals, nursing stations and family‑assist restrooms are provided. The park advises that Saturdays in November and December can be especially busy.
Guests should dress in layers and wear comfortable walking shoes, as weather conditions can affect outdoor rides and entertainment. Checking the local forecast before heading out is recommended.
Original reporting: 40/29 News KHBS Fort Smith (local) — read the source article.
