A Christmas Story – Dinner Show at The Shepherd of the Hills

Planning holiday outings in Branson? The A Christmas Story Dinner Show at The Shepherd of the Hills promises a cozy, festive experience that combines live entertainment, a hearty Christmas meal, and a dash of holiday nostalgia. While it might not be a high-budget spectacle, it offers an authentic and heartfelt atmosphere perfect for families, couples, or anyone longing for a touch of Christmas magic.

What we like about this show is how it captures the spirit of the season with familiar scenes from the beloved film, all performed by local talent in a smaller, intimate theater setting. Plus, the included dinner provides good value for a two-hour experience. On the flip side, some guests have noted that the show and meal are shorter than expected, and the food can be just warm rather than hot. Still, if you’re after an authentic, family-friendly holiday experience that won’t break the bank, this could be a worthwhile choice.

This experience is well-suited for those who enjoy nostalgic storytelling, live local theater, and festive atmospheres. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a relaxed evening that combines entertainment with a traditional holiday meal in the heart of Branson.

Key Points

• Authentic holiday storytelling featuring scenes from A Christmas Story
• Intimate theater setting offering good views, especially from front rows
• Affordable price point at around $59, including dinner and show
• Shorter duration than some travelers might expect, about 2 hours total
• Food quality varies; some find it just warm and average
• Local talent and charming, small-scale production
• Good for families and those seeking a relaxed, nostalgic Christmas outing
• Cancellations are free if done at least 24 hours in advance

The Experience: What to Expect

The Venue: A Cozy Theater in Branson

Begin your evening at The Shepherd of the Hills, located just off the main strip at 5585 W 76 Country Blvd. The theater is small and likely to give you a close-up view of the action—if you’re lucky enough to sit in the front rows, as some reviewers did. The intimate setting makes the experience more personal, which is ideal for families or couples wanting a cozy holiday atmosphere.

The Show: Bringing A Christmas Story to Life

The live adaptation captures key moments from the classic film. Expect to see scenes like Flick’s tongue stuck on the flagpole or the leg lamp making an appearance. The performers, described as “good local talent,” bring energy and familiarity to these nostalgic moments. Reviewers mentioned enjoying the theater’s smaller size because it enhanced the viewing experience, though you might want to consider sightlines if you’re further back.

The show lasts roughly an hour, with some guests feeling it’s shorter than advertised. Still, it manages to deliver a lively retelling of Ralphie’s holiday adventures, sprinkled with humor and holiday cheer.

The Meal: A Classic Christmas Dinner

The dinner is included in the ticket price, and while reviews suggest it’s “just warm” and not spectacular, it’s generally considered decent for a family-style holiday meal. Expect traditional fare, probably with some holiday favorites, designed to complement the festive mood.

Guests have found the food acceptable but not outstanding. It’s a good complement to the show, especially if you’re craving a hearty, no-fuss meal rather than gourmet dining. Tips and gratuities for servers are not included, so plan on tipping based on service.

Additional Activities: Not Included

While the tour package covers just the show and meal, it’s worth noting that other attractions like the Shepherd Adventure Park or North Pole adventure are not part of this experience. If you’re traveling with kids or seeking more holiday-themed fun, you might want to explore those separately.

How Does It Compare to Other Branson Shows?

Guests often compare this show to other Branson entertainment options, like the Haygoods or Legends in Concert. The main difference is the smaller scale and local talent focus, making it less flashy but more intimate. The price ($59) is fairly reasonable, especially considering it includes dinner, but some might find the length and food quality less satisfying than other options.

While some reviews describe the show as “pretty good for local talent,” others felt it was “shorter than expected” and wished for more substance. It’s a casual experience—more about the warm holiday spirit than high production values.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

• Duration: About 2 hours, including dinner and performance
• Price: $59 per person, which is reasonable given the inclusion of dinner and live entertainment
• Meeting Point: 5585 W 76 Country Blvd, Branson, MO
• Availability: Near public transportation, making it accessible for many travelers
• Cancellation Policy: Free cancellation if done 24 hours in advance—giving flexibility in case plans change

What to Wear and Bring

Given the cozy, small theater setting, casual attire is fine. Bring along a sense of humor and holiday cheer—this isn’t a formal event. Since food quality can vary, don’t expect gourmet, but do anticipate a traditional holiday meal that will warm you up.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This dinner show is best suited for families, couples, or groups who enjoy nostalgic holiday stories and want to combine entertainment with a traditional meal. It’s particularly attractive if you’re after a more intimate, local experience rather than a large-scale production. If you appreciate local talent and aren’t overly concerned with high-end cuisine, you’ll find this a charming way to celebrate the season.

Keep in mind the shorter duration and moderate food quality—if you’re craving a longer, gourmet dinner with a more polished show, you might want to explore other options. But for a relaxed, heartfelt holiday experience in Branson, this show hits its mark.

The Sum Up

The A Christmas Story Dinner Show at The Shepherd of the Hills offers a heartfelt, family-friendly holiday outing that’s rooted in warmth, nostalgia, and local talent. While the show’s length and food quality are modest, the intimate setting and festive storytelling make it a charming choice for those seeking a relaxed holiday experience.

This experience is best for travelers who value authentic local performances, enjoy classic holiday stories, and are happy with a casual, affordable evening. If you’re looking for a quick dose of Christmas cheer in a cozy environment, it’s likely to leave you with a smile—and maybe a desire to watch the film again.

FAQ

Is the dinner included in the ticket price?
Yes, the price of $59 includes a Christmas-themed meal along with the show.

How long does the show last?
The experience is approximately two hours, but some guests have found the show and dinner shorter than expected.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours before the scheduled start time.

Is the theater accessible by public transportation?
Yes, the venue is near public transit options, making it easy to reach without renting a car.

What should I wear?
Casual attire is perfectly fine. Comfort is key, especially in a small theater setting.

Are tips included?
No, tips and gratuities for servers are not included and should be given at your discretion.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, it’s a family-friendly show that celebrates holiday traditions suitable for all ages.

What if I’m unhappy with the food?
Reviews suggest the food is just warm and average, so don’t expect gourmet quality—but it’s generally acceptable for a holiday meal.

In all, this dinner show makes for a relaxed, nostalgic holiday outing, especially if you’re in Branson during Christmas season. It won’t win awards for grandeur, but it will warm your heart and fill your stomach—something that counts in the holiday spirit.