Veterans Homecoming

Veterans Homecoming (Branson, Missouri)

November 5 through 11

Veterans Homecoming in Branson, Missouri, is the largest Veterans Day commemoration in the United States, with more than 50,000 veterans and their families attending annually. Events extend over the week before November 11, and include special entertainment performances, lectures, social receptions, reenactments, and military memorials. The Branson Veterans Task Force, which organizes the celebration, maintains a headquarters at Branson's Celebration Hall, where veterans and active duty personnel can receive a free lunch daily throughout the week. Special tributes to veterans take place throughout the town, including the world's largest flying American flag, a salute to the troops on the showboat Branson Belle, and candlelight memorials remembering those who lost their lives in war. Each day "Reveille" and "Retreat" signal the beginning and the end of the day's activities, and throughout the week visitors enjoy free performances by military bands and drill teams. On Veterans Day a parade sponsored by the American Legion proceeds through downtown Branson. Throughout the week special discounts are given to veterans at various dining and retail establishments as well as museums, shows, and hotels.

CONTACTS:
Branson Veterans Task Force
P.O. Box 128
Branson, MO 65615
417-337-8387; fax: 417-334-7894
bransonveterans.com
Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce/CVB
P.O. Box 1897
Branson, MO 65615
800-296-0463
www.explorebranson.com

SOURCES:
PatHols-2006, p. 260

Celebrated in: Missouri