The latest Branson Chamber Connection Newsletter is here—packed with legislative news from Jefferson City and new Member Center updates. Meanwhile, Branson is buzzing with Fall Fest, the Homecoming Parade and Pep Rally, and make sure to nominate a deserving community member for the 2025 Black Tie Gala Awards.

Governor Kehoe signed the Missouri First Map into law over the weekend. The new congressional map was approved by Missouri legislators in their recent special session. You may find additional information about the map here.

On Monday, Governor Kehoe and the Missouri Department of Social Services announced that Missouri has submitted a waiver request to the USDA Food and Nutrition Service to alter the state’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to refocus the program and support the purchase of healthy foods. Read the press release here.

The Governor announced Tuesday that he has authorized the Missouri National Guard to assist with administrative, clerical and logistical duties at Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facilities within in Missouri. Click here for the press release.

Celebrate Fall Fest in Historic Downtown Branson on October 3–4! Enjoy live music, artisan vendors, local food, kids’ activities, and festive fall décor. Stroll downtown, support small businesses, and soak in the autumn vibes—fun for the whole family! Don’t miss it!

Branson Public Schools will be hosting their annual Homecoming parade and pep rally on October 8 at the Branson Landing. Branson High School’s sports teams, cheerleaders, coaches, marching band, and queen candidates will gather at the Landing fountains, where a pep rally will commence. The event begins at 8:00 p.m. and the public is invited to attend free of charge. 

Perception shapes everything—but it won’t last on its own. Join Grace Frankowski, Marketing Director for Fritz's Adventure, to learn how to influence how guests see your brand. Discover what you can control, what you can’t, and practical strategies to keep your brand fresh, relevant, and positively remembered in a fast-changing marketplace. Reserve your seat for October 14th!

The Branson/Lakes Area Chamber and CVB is seeking nominations for the prestigious 2025 Black Tie Gala Awards of Mary, Pioneer, Ambassador, President, Beautification, Community Spirit, and Care For Kids. The awards will be presented at Branson’s most celebrated annual event on Friday, December 12, 2025, at the Branson Convention Center. The awards are sponsored by Ozark Mountain Legacy, Silver Dollar City Foundation, and Myer Hotels. Nominations must be received by 5 pm Friday, October 31st, 2025. 

Join the Branson Christmas Coalition on November 1, 2025, at 7:00 PM to kick off Ozark Mountain Christmas! All local businesses, organizations, churches and nearby cities/towns are invited to synchronize turning on their Christmas lights at precisely 7:00 PM to illuminate the Ozarks in a spectacular display.

The Missouri Job Center will be hosting a job and resource fair on October 14 | 12:00 PM — 4:00 PM at First Presbyterian Church in Branson, and employers and resource providers are needed for this event. There is no cost to participate. Space is first come, first serve, so early registration is encouraged. For inquiries or to apply, contact Mitchell Beede at mitchell.beede@dhewd.mo.gov or 417-335-5370.

The Missouri Job Center will be hosting a workshop to assist employers with filing a mass unemployment insurance claim:
 • Wednesday, October 15 | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
The session will be held at the Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce no RSVP required—just mark your calendar and plan to attend. For questions, contact Mark Hinterleiter at mark.hinterleiter@dhewd.mo.gov.

Texas Roadhouse
1024 Branson Hills Parkway
Branson, MO 65616
417-231-9379

Branson Airport
Crownover Company
Simmons Bank
Still Waters Lakefront Resort
Stoneridge Flooring Design
Treasure Lake Resort Camping Club
Tri-Lakes Ford-Chrysler

1:00 PM  |  October 9
Cerris Systems at the
Branson Chamber Office
4100 Gretna Rd.
Branson, MO 65616