Not Just for Tourists: a night @ Antler Village on The Biltmore Estate.

You mean to tell me the Biltmore Estate really IS in Asheville? Oh, yes ma’m/ sir, it sure is. Years ago when traveling for my pottery shows I would, repeatedly, have shoppers pause outside of my booth and wistfully declare “Oh, Asheville….that’s the Biltmore Estate!” (Now, imagine that declaration in your best Chicago or Wisconsin accent, and you have an idea…) On seeing my sign that read ‘Asheville, NC’ it was amazing how quickly so many were plunged into a starry eyed, dream like state remembering some beautiful trip or vacation of theirs to our own…Biltmore Estate.
So, yeah. Asheville. Biltmore. All the same, right? Well, not for us who Live here. I’ve only been there on 4 occasions in the past 18 years of local residency. Twice was with friends from out of town that wanted to tour the estate, once was selling at a craft fair on the estate, and last to sell jewelry to Alison Krauss when Union Station played the Biltmore’s summer concert series. (And, I sold to her on her tour bus at that…and it was….well…Really cool!)

Even though a number of my friends, including a large number of West Ashevillian friends, hold season passes, and I’d never really given too much thought to hanging out at the Estate. Until, and…this is where I become a bit biased, my hubby’s band (The 96.5 House Band) starting playing at Antler Village on the Estate grounds.
Developed around the Biltmore Winery as a retail/ restaurant/ green spaced venue that anchors the newer INN up the hill; Antler Village has become a destination spot for local season pass holders, as well as tourists. Live music is offered Friday and Saturday nights (in season) under their Gazebo/ stage and is the perfect place to throw a blanket on the ground, set up your lawn chairs, and enjoy a picnic** while listening to great local musicians. It’s kid friendly And dog friendly. This is Asheville, right? Who couldn’t ask for more?

Well, my experience the other night has made me reconsider, both what the Estate has to offer, as well as buying a season pass. OK, yeah; I have a personal incentive to hear The 96.5 House band play, but, trust me…I’m not one of those wives that is at Every gig even though I Love hearing them play. But, this venue! You are kicked back, with friends, watching the sunset over the gardens and the gazebo and frankly it’s kind of magical. Truly.
*** UPDATE: After writing this piece, I was informed of some disappointing news: Biltmore Estate has changed their policy for coolers and BYOB/ BYOF. Not sure if this will be strictly enforced or changed soon; but a bummer all around.