Biltmore Estate, the peaceful 8000-acre Asheville retreat built by 19th-century tycoon George Washington Vanderbilt II, becomes fun and rowdy every summer during its summer concert series. Each year, nationally renowned musical acts – spanning classic rock ‘n’ roll to country genres – take to the outdoor stage outside of the 250-room mansion for an unforgettable concert. Take in a show and a gorgeous sunset, with the Blue Ridge Mountains in view.
Biltmore Estate's concert site offers some of the best mountain vistas in the area — Photo courtesy of Biltmore Estate
Thousands of Asheville locals and visitors descend on Biltmore for these much-loved concerts, which give guests the unique opportunity to experience Biltmore’s nighttime grandeur. Beginning at 4:30 p.m. on event day, concert ticket-holders are permitted to enter the estate, and parking shuttles begin to usher giddy guests to the grounds immediately outside the iconic Biltmore home.
For sustenance, guests have a variety of options. Some savvy attendees will make reservations at special concert dinners at The Stable Café or snag a table for dinner at either Cedric’s Tavern or the Bistro. All of these restaurants are located within Biltmore Estate.
Another wonderful option is to order a picnic for pick up at either the Bake Shop (adjacent to the home) or Cedric’s Tavern, located in the Antler Hill Village area of the estate. These gourmet compilations feature various selections of cheeses, wines, meats and charcuteries, and they add an element of romance to the already bedazzled evening. Picnic orders can be made by calling 800-411-3812 the day before the show.
Of course, a slew of beverage and snack options are also on sale immediately adjacent the concert area, where guests can purchase t-shirts and memorabilia showcasing the evening’s performers.
The 2014 Biltmore Concert Series line-up includes these musical acts:
Wednesday, July 30
ZZ Top - This Texas trio's best known for their hits “Sharp Dressed Man,” “Gimme All Your Lovin'" and “Legs.”
Thursday, July 31
Steely Dan - They're the classic, award-winning recording artists behind iconic '70s hits such as “Reelin' in the Years,” “Rikki Don't Lose That Number,” “F.M.,” “Peg,” “Hey Nineteen” and “Deacon Blues.”
Friday, August 15
Three Dog Night and 38 Special - These two bands will rock the crowd with such songs as “Joy to the World” and “Rockin’ into the Night.”
Thursday, August 21
Steven Curtis Chapman and Third Day - Both Christian groups will play several selections from their hit repertoires.
Saturday, August 23
Boston - A best-selling '70s band, they cemented a place in rock ‘n’ roll history with hits such as "More Than a Feeling," "Peace of Mind" and "Smokin'."
Thursday, August 28
Lyle Lovett and His Large Band and Emmylou Harris - Composer and actor Lovett joins forces with 13-time Grammy winner Emmylou Harris for a show that artfully mixes country, swing, jazz, folk, gospel and blues.
All shows begin at 8 p.m. Concert tickets may be upgraded to include daytime estate admission for the following day.
All tickets may be purchased either online at Biltmore Estate’s website or by phone at 866-336-1255.
