DESTINATION
By Priscilla Willis | Photos courtesy of Big Cedar Lodge
Culinary Adventures at Big Cedar Lodge
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Big Cedar Lodge is arguably the most-visited highly acclaimed luxury resort in the Ozarks. Perhaps you’ve been for a family getaway, to play world-class golf, or maybe for a special-occasion dinner or a weekend drive to see the awe-inspiring vistas at Top of the Rock. I won’t accuse you of living under a rock if you have never been, but if you’ve yet to visit and are looking for a good reason, then attending one of its special culinary events is the perfect excuse. Not that you need one. Big Cedar Lodge’s event calendar is chock-full of events, including an impressive array of culinary-focused experiences. There is bound to be something that tickles your palate!
Nestled in the breathtaking Ozark Mountains near Branson, the 4,600-acre Big Cedar Lodge is known for its world-class accommodations and outdoor adventures; it also invites visitors to experience myriad unforgettable food-, wine- and spirit-focused dinners, workshops and celebrations.
Guests of Big Cedar Lodge enjoy exceptional cuisine with breathtaking views of the Ozarks year-round. However, as summer is quickly approaching, there’s no better time to plan a romantic date night or fun family outing. Big Cedar Lodge’s seasonal lineup has something to please everyone, from intimate wine dinners to scenic lakefront meals and luxury cruises.
One thing is for certain, the sun sets every evening, and there is no finer time to revel in nature’s beauty than Top of the Rock’s signature sunset ceremony — a dramatic finale to an incredible day of golf or exploring and the perfect beginning to a magical evening.
Treat your loved ones to Big Cedar Lodge’s Sunset Celebration Dinners at Top of the Rock, where guests enjoy a four-course, family-style dinner paired with house wines — all set against panoramic views of Table Rock Lake and the iconic End of the Trail statue. As the sun sinks below the horizon, as everyone raises their glass for a toast, the haunting strains of a bagpiper serenade guests before the firing of the Civil War cannon.
View Top of the Rock’s Sunset Celebration at Buffalo Bar or End of the Trail All-American Wine Cellar at Osage Restaurant.
Another memorable way to elevate your time in the Ozarks is aboard a Lady Liberty cruise. Setting sail from Long Creek Marina, guests are transported to a bygone era when they board Big Cedar Lodge’s custom 62-foot luxury yacht, Lady Liberty, for an elegant cruise on Table Rock Lake. Whether you opt for brunch, a daytime sail, a sunset dinner, an after-hours cocktail cruise or a fireworks cruise, each voyage offers stunning lake views paired with excellent food, drink and live entertainment.
Life is good on the lake, especially when aboard the Lady Liberty with its elegant main cabin, unique veranda and spacious upper deck. Choose your vantage point, mix and mingle if you wish, and enjoy live music set against the stunning Ozark backdrop. It’s a memorable way to connect with friends, family or that special someone in a fun, intimate setting.
Big Cedar Lodge hosts a range of exclusive wine and spirit tastings for those looking to sit back and savor. Tasting events feature thoughtfully selected vintages and craft spirits, often paired with expertly prepared small plates, highlighting how complementary food pairings can elevate every sip. Guests can expect to discover new favorites, hear the stories behind each bottle and leave with a deeper appreciation for the art of pairing.
Consider attending the Art of the Cocktail, a unique event where guests learn the methods and secrets of mixology while exploring the history behind various classic drinks and riffs from one of Big Cedar Lodge’s experienced mixologists. This interactive experience not only allows you to craft your cocktail but also equips you with the knowledge and tools needed to recreate signature drinks at home. Each month features a different themed beverage. This activity is open to overnight guests and the public and is held every Friday at 3 p.m.
In addition to culinary events, Big Cedar Lodge also offers seasonal highlights such as holiday-themed brunches and special dining events that add a festive flavor to your holiday calendar. Think Thanksgiving feasts, Christmas cookie-decorating parties and New Year’s champagne brunches. These occasions make for memorable family traditions or festive getaways with friends.
After the flurry of holiday events, January and February at Big Cedar Lodge feature the Season of Celebrations, including the Winter Wine Series, Wine & Bourbon Workshops and the Celebration of Tastes. The Celebration of Tastes is a fabulous three-day event with a full slate of receptions, tastings and dinners where guests savor decadent culinary creations and celebrate centuries of wine-making tradition.
I was fortunate to attend the Banshee Wines 5-Course Wine Dinner on the first night of this year’s 31st annual Celebration of Tastes in January. It was an unforgettable evening of superb food and wine pairings, learning about Banshee Wines, and lively conversations with the industry folks and visitors from Missouri, Arkansas and Louisiana seated at my table. You might get lucky, as I did, and see Big Cedar Lodge in all its winter wonderland glory.
Subscribe to Big Cedar Lodge’s event calendar and follow its social media accounts for updates on the 2026 Celebration of Tastes and all the happenings throughout the year. Big Cedar Lodge is in Ridgedale, Missouri, 10 miles south of Branson, only an hour-and-a-half drive from Northwest Arkansas. What are you waiting for?
Big Cedar Lodge offers a rare and rewarding opportunity to those who like to travel deeper and experience the true spirit of a destination through its cuisine. Whether it’s your first visit or your 15th, one thing’s for sure: You’ll leave with a satisfied palate, a full heart and a longing to return.
