Released by LeeAnn Donnelly, The Biltmore Company
When a 34-foot-tall Fraser fir tree is brought into Biltmore House – America’s Largest Home – it’s a sure sign that Christmas is just around the corner.
This week, Santa Claus, aboard a horse-drawn carriage, ushered the massive tree to the home that George Vanderbilt opened to his friends and family on Christmas Eve 1895.
Christmas at Biltmore, the estate’s annual holiday event, starts officially November 4, 2016. This celebration will immerse guests in holiday cheer. The wonders are enhanced with dozens of intricately decorated trees along with hundreds of poinsettias and garlands. This week’s massive tree, delivered to the home’s immense Banquet Hall, is the star attraction.
While the volume of Christmas decorations is staggering, the resulting beauty is a testament to the expertise of Biltmore’s floral staff. The team has interpreted the theme of “Hearth and Home” throughout the house, emphasizing fireplaces and mantels.
Guests may enjoy the entire estate as part of their admission. The Conservatory anchoring the Walled Garden is filled with poinsettias, and offers seminars that provide tips for guests’ own holiday décor. At Antler Hill Village & Winery, guests may enjoy free tastings of Biltmore wines at the Winery. Weekends in the village feature carolers sharing Christmas favorites, and Santa making appearances at the bandstand to hear wish lists from guests of all ages.
Candlelight Christmas Evenings provide a warm welcome on a frosty night. By reservation only, these evenings in Biltmore House have become a cherished holiday. Setting the unique scene is a 55-foot Norway spruce sparkling in the center of the Front Lawn. Candlelight Christmas Evenings are offered November 4, 2016, through January 7, 2017.
For tickets, reservations, and more information, see Biltmore.com/visit.
