More than 5 million twinkling lights will illuminate the skies above the Tri-Lakes Area once again during the 2006 Branson Area Festival of Lights (BAFOL).

Through a partnership with the City of Branson, the Branson/Lakes Area Chamber and Convention and Visitors Bureau is pleased to announce that the drive-through will return to the Branson Hills Parkway area bigger and better than ever with a brand new Presenting Sponsor, Branson.Com.

After being on hiatus in 2005 due to construction in the Branson Hills Parkway area, the Branson Area Festival of Lights drive-through will begin November 1 and run nightly through December 31, 2006 from 5:00 pm until midnight. The public has been ecstatic about the return of the Festival of Lights to its original location.

In addition to the Parkway, guests visiting the area during Ozark Mountain Christmas can see more than 285 lighted stars lining the famous stretch of Mo. Hwy. 76 from downtown Branson to the western edge of town.

Admission is $8 per family vehicle and $50 for each commercial bus or motor coach. Unlimited admission passes are $15 per family vehicle and can be purchased at the Parkway or at the Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce Welcome Centers, which are located at the intersection of Hwy. 248 & Hwy. 65, and at the intersection of Hwy. 160 & Hwy. 65. BAFOL Passports are also available at Ozark Mountain Bank – Lobby locations.

In 2004, an estimated 41,000 family vehicles and 1,100 commercial vehicles toured the parkway generating approximately $250,000 in revenue. Income raised at the Parkway and contributions from area sponsors go to support the BAFOL displays, which take several months to set up and require ongoing maintenance. This year’s media sponsors include Hometown Radio and KHOZ.

“This community has put a lot of effort into enhancing the holiday experience for visitors. Branson offers spectacular Christmas shows, lodging, restaurants and countless shopping options, plus dozens of other ways to be entertained with friends and family,” said David Arney, president and CEO of Akers and Arney Insurance Associates and chairman of Branson Area Festival of Lights Committee.

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