The flexitarian prescription

Vanderbilt’s legacy of glamour and graciousness exude the mansion during the holidays

Since 1895—nearly 125 years ago—a lot of things have changed. But, in Ashville, North Carolina, at the former home of George and Edith Vanderbuilt, some things have remained constant. Yes, the estate is perfectly maintained and has many original furnishings and priceless pieces of art, but along with the tangible, there is an overwhelming sense of hospitality and graciousness that remain. And at no time of the year is it more evident, then during the holiday season.

“George Vanderbilt first welcomed family and friends to his home at Christmas in 1895,” says the Biltmore’s Public Relations Coordinator, Mallory Flynn.

Inviting guests to his (Vanderbilt was still a bachelor at the time) 250-room French Renaissance-style chateau for the first time took lots of planning, from where to hang the mistletoe, to choosing the perfect tree for the banquet hall, to perfecting the plum pudding. Nowadays, the care that goes into preparing the 175,000 square foot mansion for the holiday season is just as meticulous but even more elaborate than anything even George, or any Vandebilt might possibly have imagined. 

“All the Christmas decorations you will see this year began to take shape more than 12 months ago,” says Floral Displays Manager Lizzie Borchers of the magic she and the design team create when transporting the estate to the glory of Christmas days gone by. And with more than 55 trees to decorate—let alone the majority of the interior of America’s largest home, the grounds, shops, restaurants and winery—it takes a dedicated staff of many.

“Every department from engineering services to housekeeping pitches in so that Christmas at Biltmore is memorable for each and every guest,” says Flynn. “During the entire month of October, our floral displays team is busy decking the halls and rooms.” And she adds, as the house doesn’t close even when they’re busy decorating, guests are welcome to visit and watch as Christmas at Biltmore comes to life.

During the holidays, close to 45,000 lights and 150 candles illuminate the Biltmore’s interior and an additional 135,000 LED and mini lights adorn the estate

Look for these two trees when visiting the Biltmore Christmas time

“Commodore” Cornelius Vanderbilt’s shipping business helped establish the family as one of the most prestigious in America’s history. To commemorate and celebrate his legacy, there is always at least one tree featuring tiny sailing ships in his honor.

A children’s-themed tree with ornaments like vintage dolls and teddy bears always makes its way into the estate complete with wrapped packages and old-fashioned games piled around the base for a truly nostalgic look.

Originally published: North Carolina Living Magazine–Holiday 2019