Branson, Missouri, is not just a vacation destination or the capital of live entertainment in the Midwestern United States – it’s also an outstanding showcase of fine American craftsmanship. From the artists at Silver Dollar City to the unique items created by students at College of the Ozarks, to the numerous local art shops around town, there is no shortage of places to find or create Branson crafts.
Silver Dollar City: Silver Dollar City of one of the most well known venues to find both Branson crafts and crafters. With demonstrating craftsmen working year round, you’ll never run out of folks to watch and skills to marvel at! The crafters at Silver Dollar City take pride in keeping these time honored arts alive. You can watch demonstrations of candy making, glass cutting and blowing, chip carving, leather crafting, pottery throwing, blacksmithing and more. During certain times of the year, Silver Dollar City accepts visiting craftsmen as well – so you never know what kinds of Branson crafts you’ll find!
Branson Craft Mall: If you are an aspiring crafter, or someone who simply appreciates unique and handcrafted goods, then the Branson Craft Mall is a must see! With 16,000 square feet of amazing crafts from over 200 vendors, you’re sure to find something you like. What’s better than finding a made-in-Branson piece that you love? Watching the artist create it! You’ll find dozens of working craftsmen and women in action that you can visit with at the Branson Craft Mall. Woodcarving, engraving, silversmithing, basket weaving and soap making are just a few of the creating processes that happen here. Many of the crafters also offer classes, in case you want to get crafty at home!
Autumn Daze Festival: Held annually in downtown Branson, the Autumn Daze Festival is a juried craft show that draws crafters and customers from all across the country! You’ll find knitted and crocheted items, jewelry, ironworks, woodcarvings and more, all set against the charming backdrop of downtown in the fall. This event also features great food and live music from some of Branson’s most favorite entertainers! Autumn Daze is free and open to the public.
Edward’s Mill: Edward’s Mill, located on the College of the Ozarks Campus, is a historic gristmill that was built with funds provided by the late Mr. and Mrs. Hubert Edwards. This beautiful mill is home to one of the on-campus workstations, where students grind flour and weave amazing baskets and rugs by hand. These handmade crafts are for sale in the mill, at the Keeter Center gift shop, and at the campus farmers market.
Branson really is a crafter’s dream come true. If you have a talent for crafting, or just appreciate the skill that goes into creating unique pieces of art, then Branson is the town for you!
