Join Us for a Season of Hope
Thursday, December 5th, 2024 | Uncategorized | Comments Off on Join Us for a Season of Hope
One of the area’s most popular tourist attractions, The Biltmore Estate, has recently reopened after their forced closure due to the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene when it ripped through Western North Carolina.
Portions of Biltmore’s grounds and some of its buildings did suffer significant flood damage from Helene. However, Biltmore House, the Conservatory, winery, gardens and the estate’s hotels received minimal or no damage from the storm.
The holiday season is now underway for the 8,000-acre estate employing approximately 2,400 people. While the Biltmore House, restaurants, some trails, and other estate attractions will be open to visitors, select trails and the Outdoor Adventure Center will remain closed until further notice, and some areas will have limited access.
“We are incredibly grateful for the outpouring of support for our community and the determination of our first responders, utility workers and community volunteers,” Bill Cecil Jr., president and CEO of Biltmore, said in a statement. “As recovery unfolds, welcoming guests back to Biltmore not only means we can open, but also brings critical support to our region’s economy to aid area employees, local businesses and friends.”
According to Marissa Jamison, a Biltmore spokesperson, no storm-related fatalities were reported among staff; though several staff members did lose their homes, all have been accounted for.
Some are also out of work due to the decline of tourism in the area due to the storm. Biltmore is hopeful that all staff members will return in phases now that they have reopened.
Lizzie Whitcher, floral displays manager who has worked at Biltmore for 10 years and leads holiday decoration operations, said people in the Asheville area need something special this year. “It felt a little crazy to be decorating for Christmas when there are people who literally lost everything, but we had to remind ourselves, we’re not just doing this for Biltmore. We’re doing this for this whole area,” she said.
Chase Pickering, vice president of Biltmore House Guest Experience and Operations and great-great-grandson of George and Edith Vanderbilt said reopening was important for the local economy. The entire staff at The Biltmore House are working to bring joy (and visitors) to the area through their hugely popular Christmas at Biltmore events.
“We are here in Western North Carolina. We are a resilient community, and Biltmore has for generations ― for five generations now ― been a beacon of hope,” Pickering said. “And this community stands for resiliency. It’s moments like this where we come together, and we find a way to come back stronger and support each other and that is what resiliency means for WNC.”
Offering good tidings of comfort and joy, Christmas at Biltmore awaits you.
Now–January 5, 2025
As we celebrate the 40th anniversary of Candlelight Christmas Evenings, the glow of candlelight is a reminder that we can weather any storm. Plan your visit to Biltmore today to enjoy Christmas with those you love.
From Biltmore House to Antler Hill Village, fragrant wreaths, glittering garland, and thousands of sparkling ornaments create a one-of-kind holiday oasis. Dazzling by day, the house is truly magical during Candlelight Christmas Evenings, a 40-year tradition not to be missed.
Select ticket options include Chihuly at Biltmore and FREE next-day grounds access.
An Unforgettable Holiday Evening
Now–January 4, 2025
A majestic Norway spruce and pathway luminaries welcome you to America’s Largest Home®. Inside, thousands of ornaments reflect the soft glow of candles, fireplaces, and twinkle lights. The magic continues in Antler Hill Village, which is festooned with glittering lights, ornaments, and displays.
Chihuly at Biltmore – A Thrilling New Exhibition
Now–February 2, 2025
Featured in museums and gardens around the world, including the spectacular 2018 Chihuly at Biltmore exhibition, Dale Chihuly’s awe-inspiring works have captivated millions.
Specially curated for Biltmore, a new experience of the world-renowned artist’s iconic creations awaits your discovery within the intimate gallery setting of Amherst at Deerpark®.
Reserve your admission tickets and special admission-inclusive overnight packages for this remarkable experience today.
Antler Hill Village Illumination
Now-February 17, 2025
Included with admission
Bask in the glow of a glittering cascade of lights illuminating trees, buildings, and the pathways that connect Antler Hill Village’s unique shops, restaurants, and Winery. Experience this must-see part of the Christmas at Biltmore tradition, which includes festive displays adorning our relaxing Winery, where complimentary tastings await.
Candlelight Christmas Evenings – An Unforgettable Holiday Evening
Now–January 4, 2025
A majestic Norway spruce and pathway luminaries welcome you to America’s Largest Home®. Inside, thousands of ornaments reflect the soft glow of candles, fireplaces, and twinkle lights. The magic continues in Antler Hill Village, which is festooned with glittering lights, ornaments, and displays.
Santa at the Bandstand
Included with admission
Capture that classic Christmas moment you and your children will never outgrow. Afterward, explore all that Antler Hill Village has to offer: ice cream at The Creamery, friendly animals at our Farmyard, plus Pisgah Playground, shops, restaurants, and award-winning Winery.
Dates available: November 29-30, December 1, 7-8, 14-23
CHECK KNOW BEFORE YOU GO for directions
https://www.biltmore.com/visit/visitor-information/know-before-you-go/
About Biltmore
Established in 1895 in Asheville, North Carolina, Biltmore is as impressive today as it was more than a century ago. In addition to Biltmore House, the 250-room French chateau known as America’s Largest Home®, this beloved National Historic Landmark includes 8,000 acres of gardens and grounds. Comprised of managed forests and farmland, a working vineyard, 20+ miles of nature trails, Antler Hill Village and its shops, restaurants, and award-winning Winery, the estate also features such splendid overnight accommodations as a four-star Inn, a charming hotel, and a distinctive collection of private cottages. All this, plus seasonal exhibitions, outdoor activities, and live entertainment make Biltmore a one-of-a-kind destination.
Privately owned and maintained by his descendants, Biltmore remains true to George Vanderbilt’s original vision: a self-sustaining Blue Ridge Mountain estate and a luxurious retreat amid year-round natural beauty. Whether as a day trip or multi-night getaway, to experience Biltmore is to experience a legacy of gracious hospitality, timeless elegance, and an inspired sense of wonder. To learn more, go to Biltmore.com.
