Monday, May 25, 2009

Dolly Parton Dixie Stampede

While at the Solo's pre-rally in Branson, a group of us attended Dolly Parton's Dixie Stampede (other Stampede locations are in Pigeon Forge, Myrtle Beach, and recently closed in Florida). What a lot of fun! We started the evening with a pre-show featuring a talented comic/juggler, and then proceeded into the arena for the dinner and show.

As we entered, we found we were on one of two sides: North or South, facing a large open area with a dirt floor between the two sides. Our waiters were dressed in blue or gray Civil War uniforms, and the waitresses as southern belles. Dinner was eaten without utensils -- soup in a mug with a handle, chicken (a whole Rock Cornish Game Hen each), BBQ Pork, corn on the cob, potato, and dessert. No hard liquor anywhere, but all the iced tea or coffee you could drink!

Pictures were not allowed during the performances, but a group photo was taken when we first entered. Here it is:

The evening was spent in a North/South competition -- sometimes with audience members racing chickens or pigs, and sometimes with performers on horseback doing rodeo stunts and challenges. Horses, covered wagons, doves, and even longhorns filled the arena at various times. It was all impeccably staged and presented, even down to the "dirt" on the floor which was somehow dustless. And we saw not a single piece of horse poop anywhere!

After each competition by the performers, the winning riders tossed a single white carnation to an audience member -- and I was one of the lucky ladies! I guess I could call my champion my "Stud on a Steed!" We agreed that we all had a great time at the Dixie Stampede.

1 comment:

RVLifestyle said...

I'm glad to hear that you had a good time. When we saw the Dixie Stampede it was Christmas time. The races were all North Pole versus South Pole. We had a great time and, amazingly, the food was pretty good.

Nancy and I were hoping to see you and John at the Escapade, but life got in the way.