… With boughs of holly – and other assorted lights, trees and blow-up reindeers that take their rightful places in our homes and on our front lawns during this special time of year. As I drive through the neighborhoods in awe of the Christmas lights and decorations, I am always impressed by that one house where someone has outdone themselves, with thousands of lights that twinkle, chase and flash, and holiday music to complete the experience.

And speaking of outdoing yourself … one of the many great places to visit in North Carolina at Christmas is the Biltmore House in Asheville. America’s largest home was first opened on Christmas Eve in 1895, when George Vanderbilt introduced his grand estate to his family and friends. Today, the banquet hall, where the Vanderbilt’s first gathered, houses a 35-foot Frasier fir covered in thousands of lights and beautiful ornaments. You can walk through the house and be entranced by more than 50 decorated trees, miles of garland and greenery, and hundreds of red and white poinsettias.

Growing up not far from Asheville, our family visited the Biltmore frequently. Christmas was always my favorite time of the year to go, especially at night, when all of the lights shine, and candles and fireplaces are lit. It seems magical. I can imagine myself curling up in the library with a good book, anticipating Christmas Day.

As you make your way through the house toward the kitchen, the fragrance of evergreens gives way to the sweet smells of baking. I remember how fascinated my brother and I were with the gingerbread house. We thought it was the coolest thing ever!  (That is, after the bowling alley, of course.)

After touring the house, we would head over to Antler Hill Village for hot chocolate and to browse the shops. My mother always had to pull us out of the chocolate shop – but not before we managed to finagle a few nibbles “to go”.

That first Christmas in 1895 began the start of many great traditions and memories for the Vanderbilt’s – just as my family traditions and memories include many holiday visits to their majestic home. This time of year, it’s always fun to renew traditions and start a few new ones, as well as experience the traditions of others. Spending a day (or I recommend a night!) at the Biltmore is a wonderful way to start.

What are your holiday traditions?

By Amy Gibbs (Media Buyer) – Guest Blogger