On the morning of October 30, 2024, a 28-foot Fraser Fir Christmas tree was raised in front of Biltmore House at the Biltmore Estate in Asheville. The tree, provided by Andrews Nursery in Newland, North Carolina, marked the start of the estate’s festive season. USA TODAY
Biltmore Estate, known as “America’s largest home,” is open once again for the holiday season, following a month-long closure due to the impact of Tropical Storm Helene. The 19th-century estate, located in Asheville, North Carolina, faced significant damage from the storm that hit Western North Carolina on September 27, causing severe flooding and widespread destruction. The storm’s aftermath was devastating, with 102 people reported dead and many areas, including Biltmore Village, suffering extensive damage.
Chase Pickering, vice president of Guest Experience at Biltmore and the great-great-grandson of estate founder George Vanderbilt, explained that cleaning and recovery efforts were extensive, but many of Biltmore's key attractions are now open. "It’s very important to know that some areas will take longer to recover, but we are ready to welcome guests back," he said.
While the estate’s 250-room mansion, Biltmore House, and its surrounding grounds are operational, some areas remain closed due to storm damage. Visitors can explore the house, gardens, wineries, and shops in Antler Hill Village, though some parts of the estate, including equestrian trails and certain walking paths, are still being cleared.
Despite the challenges, Biltmore is focusing on its popular annual "Christmas at Biltmore" event. The 28-foot Fraser Fir tree was raised on October 30, signaling the start of the festive season. "Chihuly at Biltmore," an exhibition showcasing Dale Chihuly’s stunning glass art, continues to draw visitors, with its run extended until February 2025.
The estate's reopening saw a modest but hopeful start, with 7,200 guests visiting over the weekend of November 9, representing about 35% of the usual traffic. Chief Marketing Officer Mark Hemphill expressed optimism for a steady recovery. "We are encouraged by the positive response, and we expect business to improve as we move through the holiday season," he said. Biltmore is collaborating with local tourism agencies to support the region’s economic recovery and boost visitor numbers.
Pickering highlighted that Biltmore, like many others, has experienced significant disruptions before, including closures during World War II and the COVID-19 pandemic. This marks the third such closure in its history. However, many of Biltmore's key attractions, including the house, restaurants, and winery, have remained largely unaffected by the storm. Guests can also visit the farmyard animals at Antler Hill Village, though some seasonal activities are closed.
The estate's grounds experienced severe flood damage, with the Swannanoa River rising over six feet above its record, flooding several buildings, including the Starbucks and group sales building. The damage to the estate is visible, with floodlines still visible on the gatehouse. However, many of the structures have been repaired, and work continues on the grounds to restore areas damaged by fallen trees and washed-out paths.
Biltmore staff, many of whom had been furloughed during the storm's aftermath, have rallied to help restore the estate. Pickering expressed gratitude for the staff's hard work, noting that more than half had returned as of late October. In support of the community, Biltmore launched the Biltmore Relief Fund, donating $2 million to local recovery efforts and hosting a fundraising concert for the area.
For those planning to visit, Biltmore uses a dynamic pricing system, with ticket costs ranging from $125 to $190 during the holiday season, depending on the day and type of access. Visitors can expect a return to normal pricing by January, with discounted annual passes available early in the year.
Pickering remarked that reopening Biltmore not only marks a significant moment for the estate but is also a symbol of resilience for the local community. "This is a moment of hope for Asheville, and we are committed to supporting the local economy and culture while offering memorable experiences for our guests," he said.
