A NOTE TO OUR READERS:
"Biltmore by Candlelight" is from the November 2003 issue of Southern Living. Because prices, dates, and other specifics are subject to change, please check all information to make sure it's still current before making your travel plans.
Biltmore Estate tops any holiday display we've seen south of the North
Pole. Our favorite festive scene is the entrance to the mansion, just as dusk
settles. The glowing embers of sunset silhouette the towering building in soft
orange and velvety purple. More than 300 luminarias flicker in subtle parchment
hues, like so many Tinker Bells lining the huge panel of lawn.
During the Candlelight Christmas Evenings, Biltmore dazzles you with
embellishments, transforming the magnificent mansion into a winter wonderland.
Bells, bows, and bangles perch on every pedestal, tabletop, and horizontal
surface in the château. You could stand in one spot in any
room, turn slowly for 15 minutes, and still feel as if you've missed something.
You probably did.
But you'd better not pout, better not cry. We're telling you why. Here's what
not to miss on your tour.
Local choirs and musical groups give nightly concerts in the Winter Garden.
The setting--surrounded by an ocean of poinsettias, lush green ferns, and
swirling garland wreaths--harmonizes perfectly with the celestial music.
