Click here for updates on this story

ASHEVILLE, North Carolina ( WLOS ) -- The most wonderful time of year has begun at the Biltmore Estate as crews raise the centerpiece of the house's seasonal décor.

Biltmore officials say the Banquet Hall tree is the final and largest holiday decoration installed before "Christmas at Biltmore" officially opens on Saturday, Nov. 1.

Biltmore's Floral Design Team will decorate the tree throughout the day Wednesday, using scaffolding and handmade tools to place ornaments and lights on its tallest branches.

Crews carefully carried a 35-foot Fraser fir tree through the front doors of America's largest home on Wednesday, Oct. 29, before hoisting it into the upright position in the Banquet Hall, avoiding art, antiques, and a grand chandelier.

This year's

See Full Page