Brianna Kraemer
Carolina Journal
Despite severe destruction in the western mountains of North Carolina following Hurricane Helene, Biltmore Estates in Asheville is welcoming visitors for another year of its Christmas at Biltmore program.
Running from early November through early January, the event showcases the historic mansion decked in elaborate holiday decorations and offers a range of seasonal activities for visitors. The estate features over 100 Christmas trees, 1.5 miles of fresh garlands, 500 wreaths and sprays, and 2,000 poinsettias, among other holiday décor.
Flooding and other site damage kept the historic estate closed for 36 days, but they reopened on Nov. 2 just in time for the hoilday season. Tickets are available for a variety of activities and tours, including access to 800 acres of grounds, the Candlelight Christmas House, and the new art exhibition, Chihuly at Biltmore.
“There are some places that are not welcome to visitors in our community, but we know that Western North Carolina relies on tourism and there are many, many places where guests can feel welcome this holiday season and Biltmore wants to be one of those,” said Chase Pickering, vice president of Biltmore House Guest Experience and Operations.
In 2023, Hallmark released a movie called “A Biltmore Christmas” in which the scenic property was featured as part of the cable channel’s 2023 “Countdown to Christmas.” About 15 days of filming took place at the estate and 13 different rooms at the Biltmore House and The Inn were used.
While 200 yards of artifical snow was used for the movie’s production last year, snow has already begun to add to the Christmas spirit at Biltmore this year.
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