The holiday season shines brightest at the Biltmore Estate Christmas, a tradition that draws visitors from across the world to Asheville each year. The grand estate comes alive with vibrant holiday blooms, fragrant wreaths, glittering garland, and thousands of sparkling ornaments that fill the historic halls with joy. Christmas magic is found throughout the property, from the Conservatory’s seasonal plants to the brilliant light display at Antler Hill Village. The air is filled with festive cheer, making it one of the most spectacular things to do in Western NC during the holiday season.
Beyond its stunning décor, the Biltmore Estate Christmas is a celebration of art, history, and timeless traditions. Guests can enjoy live music, sip mulled cider, explore enchanting gardens, and shop for unique gifts. Whether strolling through the Biltmore House Christmas displays or watching Antler Hill Village sparkle at night, the atmosphere captures the spirit and wonder of the holiday season. The Biltmore Estate Christmas has become a bucket-list holiday experience for visitors, adding charm and magic to every winter getaway in Asheville.
Of course, this remarkable tradition is just one of the many reasons to visit Western North Carolina this winter. There are far more things to do in Asheville during the winter season, not to mention in the stunning mountains surrounding our quiet and secluded North Carolina Mountain retreat. There’s truly no better complement to your mountain getaway than a stay at our North Carolina Bed and Breakfast Near Asheville. Our inn offers cozy charm, luxurious amenities, and close proximity to the estate, making it an ideal retreat for anyone visiting the Biltmore Mansion. See why the Biltmore Estate Christmas is the crown jewel of seasonal celebrations in North Carolina and book your holiday getaway today!
Enjoy The Magic of the Biltmore Estate Christmas
The Biltmore Estate has been inspiring awe since George Washington Vanderbilt completed his French Renaissance castle in 1895. Spanning 8,000 acres, the estate includes the iconic 250-room Biltmore House, 75 acres of gardens, and breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Recognized as a National Historic Landmark, it continues to be a place where history and elegance meet. That’s never truer than it is at the holiday season, when the Biltmore Estate Christmas celebrations come alive.
During Christmas at the Biltmore Estate, the property transforms into a winter wonderland. More than 100 hand-decorated Christmas trees brighten the halls, including the towering 35-foot Fraser fir in the Banquet Hall. Each year’s décor follows a unique theme, creating a fresh and dazzling display for guests. Seasonal blooms fill the Conservatory with fragrance and beauty. Throughout the estate, visitors enjoy live music and choirs, seasonal dishes, and craft cocktails at one of the many restaurants. For the best Biltmore Estate Christmas experience, there are several day and evening Biltmore Christmas Packages to choose from.
Daytime Christmas Admission
By day, the estate invites exploration with holiday activities, festive exhibits, and ticketed tours of the Biltmore House. Every ticket includes access to Antler Hill Village and Winery, complimentary wine tastings, the gardens and grounds, and free parking. Visitors can also enjoy the current seasonal exhibit, shop for gifts at estate boutiques, and take in the festive holiday displays. The Biltmore Estate Christmas experience is filled with wonder at every turn, whether indoors or outdoors.
Daytime admission to the house and grounds begins at $130 per person. Guests looking to experience this year’s art exhibit, Tutankhamun: His Tomb and His Treasures, may add it for an additional fee. Every daytime ticket also comes with an audio guide that brings the estate to life with rich history and fascinating details. For those seeking something more personalized, exclusive guided tours are available starting at $400.
Candlelight Christmas Evenings
As evening falls, the estate transforms with Candlelight Christmas Evenings. Thousands of twinkling lights and the sounds of carolers fill the air, creating a warm and enchanting atmosphere throughout the Biltmore Mansion. Seasonal exhibits, live music, and the glow of the Banquet Hall’s 35-foot Fraser fir make this one of the most magical ways to celebrate Christmas at the Biltmore. Because these evenings are so popular, we recommend purchasing tickets early and considering a dining reservation to complete the experience.
Candlelight Christmas Evenings admission begins at $150 per person for the house and grounds, or $185 if you’d like to include the art exhibit. Guests who want a more in-depth exploration can book exclusive guided evening tours, beginning at $420, which provide rare insights into the estate’s history and traditions.
What to Do at the Biltmore Estate at Christmas
- One of the most beloved traditions at the Biltmore Estate Christmas celebration is the raising of the towering 35-foot Fraser fir in the Banquet Hall. This spectacular moment marks the official start of the holiday season at Biltmore in late October or early November and sets the tone for the grandeur that follows throughout the season.
- Admire the hand-decorated trees and holiday décor throughout the estate. With more than 100 dazzling Christmas trees and thousands of ornaments, the Biltmore House is transformed into a holiday wonderland. Each year has a special theme, ensuring that every visit feels unique and full of new surprises.
- Step into the Conservatory and be greeted by a colorful array of holiday plants, from vibrant poinsettias in a variety of shades to Christmas cactus, amaryllis, orchids, and bromeliads. This living display of festive blooms adds a natural beauty to the Christmas celebration.
- The estate’s charming shops offer everything from handcrafted ornaments and specialty foods to unique home décor and keepsakes. It’s the perfect spot to finish your holiday shopping and bring home a piece of the season.
- Included with every ticket to the Biltmore Estate Christmas is the complimentary wine tasting at the estate’s renowned Winery. It’s a highlight of any visit. Sip award-winning vintages and discover the perfect bottle to take home for your holiday celebrations.
- Indulge in festive dining at one of the many restaurants. From casual bites to fine dining, Biltmore’s restaurants feature seasonal dishes and festive cocktails that capture the flavors of the holidays. Dining at the estate is an experience all its own, adding a delicious touch to the day.
- Stroll through the brilliant light display at Antler Hill Village. As night falls, Antler Hill Village glows with thousands of twinkling lights and larger-than-life holiday displays. Families and couples alike will love wandering through this festive setting, complete with holiday music and seasonal cheer.
From luminous décor to incredible evening experiences, the Biltmore Estate Christmas captures the spirit of the holidays like no other destination in Western North Carolina.
Stay at the Best North Carolina Bed and Breakfast Near Asheville
To make your holiday trip complete, stay at the best North Carolina Bed and Breakfast Near Asheville. Our luxury mountain retreat offers elegance and comfort, making it the perfect place to relax after a festive day at The Biltmore in Asheville. With a range of cozy guest rooms, luxurious suites, and private cottages, guests can choose accommodations that feature fireplaces, whirlpool tubs, and private decks with sweeping mountain views.
Located just 45 minutes from the estate, our North Carolina Bed and Breakfast feels like a secluded mountain hideaway while still being close to Asheville and all the top things to do in Western North Carolina. Our guests enjoy luxury amenities like high-end linens, plush robes, custom-made bath products, a pillow menu, fresh flowers in every room, and daily housekeeping. Our on-site spa offers soothing treatments, and evenings can be spent by the fire pit or in the game room.
Every morning begins with a gourmet breakfast featuring eggs cooked to order, bacon or sausage, Austrian crepes, homemade granola, and fresh, seasonal ingredients. From our signature organic coffee blend to complimentary concierge services, we make sure every guest enjoys a personalized stay. In the evening, don’t miss the chance to dine at Newman’s Restaurant, one of the top restaurants near Asheville. Seasonal fresh ingredients, left in the capable hands of our chefs, are transformed into a delectable dish that will leave your taste buds dancing at the end of the day.
Whether you are planning a romantic trip or crafting one of the best weekend getaways in the South, our North Carolina Bed and Breakfast provides everything you need for the ultimate holiday escape. Book your room today!
