Biltmore, Lights & Timeless Traditions
November 30 – December 4, 2026 | 5-day Program
Itinerary
Nov 30 | Arrive to Asheville & Holly Jolly Welcome
Upon arrival at the airport, meet your professional Tour Director and board a luxury motorcoach to begin your festive holiday escape to Asheville. Check in for a four-night stay at a centrally located hotel, perfectly situated for holiday exploration. This evening, get into the spirit of the season with a ride aboard the Holly Jolly Christmas Trolley, a cheerful, narrated tour that blends Asheville’s rich history with joyful caroling and holiday merriment. Following your ride, enjoy a festive Welcome Dinner, where warm hospitality and seasonal flavors set the tone for the days ahead.
Overnight: Ashville Downtown (D)
Dec 1 | Biltmore Magic & Winter Lights Spectacle
Step into a day of holiday enchantment at America’s Largest Home®—the iconic Biltmore Estate. Your self-guided tour reveals the opulent world of George and Edith Vanderbilt, with access to three floors and the basement of their magnificent mansion. Marvel at vintage clothing, fine art, period furnishings, and fascinating stories of the Vanderbilt family and their guests. Enjoy a delightful lunch at the charming Stable Café, nestled right on the estate grounds. This afternoon, head to Antler Hill Village and Winery, where old-world charm meets holiday sparkle. Indulge in a private wine tasting and sample Biltmore’s celebrated varietals. This evening, gather for dinner at one of Asheville’s top local restaurants before experiencing the awe-inspiring Winter Lights Spectacular at the North Carolina Arboretum. Wander through a magical garden of glowing lights, music, and festive displays—a sparkling celebration of the season.
Overnight: Ashville Downtown (B,L,D)
Dec 2 | Appalachian Traditions & Holiday Theater
Begin your day immersed in the rich cultural heritage of the Blue Ridge Mountains. At the Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center, Appalachian traditions come alive through storytelling, music, and demonstrations by nationally recognized artisans. Continue to the Folk Art Center, where you’ll witness members of the Southern Highland Craft Guild creating exquisite, handmade works rooted in generations of mountain craftsmanship. Seasonal touches and live demonstrations bring festive flair to this artistic journey. Following lunch, travel to the quaint village of Flat Rock for a delightful afternoon performance at the Flat Rock Playhouse. Their annual Holiday Show offers heartwarming songs, spirited storytelling, and joyful celebration. Return to Asheville with your evening at leisure—perfect for exploring downtown’s twinkling streets, shopping for holiday treasures, or enjoying dinner at a cozy local café.
Overnight: Ashville Downtown (B,L)
Dec 3 | Gingerbread Delights & Biltmore by Candlelight.
Begin the day at the peaceful Billy Graham Training Center at The Cove. Adorned in seasonal décor, this serene retreat offers a moment of reflection amidst the holiday bustle. Continue on to the historic Omni Grove Park Inn, a grand mountain resort where you’ll enjoy a memorable lunch surrounded by rustic stone architecture, crackling fireplaces, and sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Afterwards, be dazzled by the National Gingerbread House Competition®—a whimsical showcase of sugary artistry, with elaborate creations crafted by bakers from around the world. Enjoy a relaxed afternoon to explore Asheville at your pace. Later, the grand finale awaits: Biltmore Candlelight Christmas Evenings. Step back in time to 1895, when the estate hosted its first Christmas celebration. With the house aglow in candlelight, firelight, and twinkling ornaments, this immersive experience is pure holiday magic. Music drifts through the halls, fresh greenery perfumes the air, and the timeless spirit of Christmas fills every room. This evening, savor a festive farewell dinner with your fellow travelers, celebrating the memories you’ve made together.
Overnight: Ashville Downtown (B,L,D)
Dec 4 | Farewell to Asheville
As your holiday adventure comes to a close, bid farewell to the festive charm of Asheville. Transfer to the airport with a heart full of cherished memories and the glow of a truly magical experience. (B)
Happy Holidays!
INCLUSIONS:
- Roundtrip transportation to the MSN or ORD airport
- Roundtrip airfare to Ashville (excluding airline baggage fees)
- Five days of deluxe motorcoach transportation
- Four nights of quality accommodations in Ashville
- Two days of professional step-on guide services
- Daily breakfast (4 total)
- Three included lunches, featuring meals at the Stable Café and the Omni Grove Park Inn
- Three included dinners
- Holly Jolly Christmas Trolley Tour
- Visit to the Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center, featuring a live demonstration by local artisans
- Visit to the Folk Arts Center, home to Southern Highland Craft Guild artisans
- Holiday performance at the Flat Rock Playhouse
- Admission to the Biltmore Estate, incl. Antler Hill Village
- Private Biltmore wine tasting experience
- Biltmore Estate evening Candlelight Christmas Tour
- North Carolina Arboretum – Winter Lights Spectacular
- Visit to the historic Omni Grove Park Inn, including time to view the world-renowned National Gingerbread House Competition® Display
- All hotel taxes, resort fees, and applicable service charges
- All meal taxes and gratuities included
- Baggage handling for one piece of luggage per person
- Services of a full-time Universal Travel representative
- All driver and step-on guide gratuities included
Payments
$500.00 deposit due to confirm the reservation
July 28, 2026 (No penalties until Aug 1, 2026)
Cancellations
50% non-refundable Aug 2, 2026
100% non-refundable Sep 15, 2026
An optional Travel Protection plan is available with coverage for trip cancellation/interruption, see enclosed product flyer for more information.
A valid passport is required on this itinerary and must be valid for at least 6 month after returning back to the USA.