The Biltmore Estate's Festival of Flowers
Capture the Colors and Flavors of Spring at America's Castle
Apr 5, 2009
Nestled within the Blue Ridge Mountains surrounding Asheville, North Carolina, the Biltmore Estate has earned a prestigious reputation as “America's castle,” attracting visitors from around the globe. Each spring, the Biltmore Estate showcases the colors and flavors of the season during the Festival of Flowers. A variety of exciting activities and special events take place on the estate in celebration of spring.
Tour the Newly Refurbished Louis XV Suite
A new suite of rooms has just been unveiled to the public for the first time, just in time for the Festival of Flowers. After almost three years of careful restoration, the Louis XV Suite, which consists of the Damask Room, the Claude Room, the Tyrolean Chimney Room, and the Louis XV Room, are now open on the second floor of the Biltmore House. In addition to the stunning furnishings and artwork on display in the rooms, Biltmore also introduces a new storytelling audio guide, which provides intriguing insights into the Vanderbilt family's life.
Attend a Gardening Seminar
Green-thumbed visitors can pick up some useful tips at one of the gardening seminars hosted by A Gardener's Place. Biltmore gardeners will also be available beneath the arbor in the Walled Garden to answer questions and offer advice.
Enjoy Music, Dancing and More at River Bend Farm
Saturdays and Sundays at River Bend Farm are full of exciting activities for both young and old. Guests can enjoy live music and dance performances at River Bend Barn or watch a farm life demonstration at the Farmyard.
Sample Biltmore's Signature Wines at the Winery
Free wine-tasting takes place daily at the Winery. Guests over age 21 can choose five signature Biltmore Estate wines to sample from an extensive list of red, white, rosé, and sparkling wines. For a limited time, the aptly named Festival of Flowers wine is available. Young guests can enjoy a complimentary glass of grape juice. Other events offered at the Winery include Red Wine & Chocolate and Essentials of Aromatic Wine seminars and a Behind-the-Scenes Winery Tour. All events are free and take place daily.
Dine at One of Biltmore's Five Restaurants
The Biltmore Estate has a variety of restaurants to choose from, from the al fresco Arbor Grill to the more formal atmosphere of The Dining Room at the Inn on Biltmore Estate. Other restaurants include the Bistro at the Winery; the Deerpark Restaurant, which features an impressive buffet; and the Stable Café The Deerpark Restaurant and the Stable Café will offer special menus for Easter Sunday and Mother's Day; Easter menu items include seasonal favorites and some Southern classics with a modern twist, such as the Deerpark's edamame succotash, havarti and green chile grits, and blackberry cobbler and the Stable Café's fried green tomatoes.
Participate in Special Easter Activities
Easter is an exciting time at the Biltmore Estate, with activities designed for guests of all ages. Hourly musical performances in the Winter Garden help set a festive mood as you tour the interior of the Biltmore House. Children can take part in Easter egg hunts; have their photos taken with the Easter Bunny; or enjoy music, storytelling and magic shows on the front lawn. At River Bend Barn and Farmyard, children can visit the baby animals, participate in games or crafts, or watch a butter churning demonstration.
For more information on the Festival of Flowers or for ticket prices, admission times or to plan your visit, visit the official web site of the Biltmore Estate.
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