As the festive season approaches, the Grove Park Inn in Asheville, North Carolina, transforms into a winter wonderland, much to the delight of its visitors. The annual Christmas decorations at this historic resort are not only a sight to behold but are also an elaborate process that involves meticulous planning and execution. Here are five festive facts about the Grove Park Inn's Christmas decor timeline that will give you an inside look at how this holiday magic comes to life:
1. Early Planning and Conceptualization
The Grove Park Inn’s Christmas decorations don’t start with the physical setup but with planning that begins months in advance. By late spring or early summer, the resort’s holiday committee, which includes interior designers, staff from various departments, and sometimes even local artists, convenes to brainstorm ideas for the next holiday season.
- Theme Selection: A theme is chosen, which sets the tone for all decorations. This can range from traditional Victorian Christmas to modern interpretations of holiday cheer.
- Color Palette: Based on the theme, a color scheme is developed to guide the selection of ornaments, lights, and other decorative elements.
- Inspiration: The committee might travel to other holiday shows, look through design books, or use historical photos of past decorations at the Inn to draw inspiration.
2. Procurement and Crafting Decor
Once the planning is solidified, the Grove Park Inn moves into the phase of procurement and crafting. Here’s how they prepare:
- Ornaments and Lights: Orders for custom-made or artisanal ornaments are placed, ensuring they arrive in time for the setup. Special attention is given to sustainable and eco-friendly decorations.
- Artisan Work: The resort often engages local artists and craftspeople to create unique pieces, from wreaths to oversized nutcrackers or hand-painted signs.
- Storage and Inventory: A dedicated space is used to store decorations not in use, and each year, inventory is taken to replace or refurbish items as needed.
🎄 Note: The Grove Park Inn is committed to recycling and repurposing decorations to minimize environmental impact.
3. Volunteer Community Involvement
One of the most heartwarming aspects of the Grove Park Inn’s Christmas decorations is the community involvement. Here’s how they incorporate volunteers:
- Volunteer Decorators: Local groups, school children, and organizations often volunteer their time to help with the decorating process, fostering community spirit.
- Community Ornament Program: Residents can participate by making or donating ornaments, which are then incorporated into the Inn’s decor.
4. The Week of Wonders
The week leading up to the official unveiling of the decorations, known as the “Week of Wonders,” is when the magic truly happens. Here’s what occurs:
- Team Effort: Staff members from various departments, including housekeeping, maintenance, and the events team, come together to transform the Inn.
- Lighting Installation: Thousands of lights are installed both indoors and outdoors, creating an illuminated landscape that’s visible from the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains.
- Grand Trees: The centerpiece is often the grand Christmas tree, but several other areas also get their own festooned trees, each uniquely decorated.
⛄ Note: The decorating process is carefully choreographed to ensure all areas are ready for the official lighting ceremony.
5. The Great Tree Lighting Ceremony
The culmination of all this preparation is the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony, which marks the official start of the holiday season at the Grove Park Inn:
- Event Extravaganza: The ceremony includes performances by local choirs, appearances by Santa, and a countdown to lighting up the Inn, creating a festive atmosphere for all attendees.
- Public Participation: The community and guests are invited to witness this event, enhancing the sense of shared celebration.
- Photograph Opportunities: Visitors have ample opportunities to take holiday photos amidst the twinkling lights and decorations.
Overall, the Grove Park Inn's approach to its Christmas decorations not only highlights its commitment to tradition and festivity but also its dedication to community engagement and sustainability. The effort put into planning, crafting, and community involvement culminates in a magical holiday experience that draws visitors from all over the world. The Grove Park Inn truly captures the spirit of Christmas, making it a must-visit destination during the holiday season.
What is the theme for the 2023 Grove Park Inn Christmas decorations?
+
The theme for 2023 hasn’t been officially announced yet, but given past trends, expect a blend of traditional holiday motifs with a modern twist, emphasizing warmth and family gatherings.
Can anyone volunteer to help with the decorations?
+
Yes, the Grove Park Inn encourages community involvement. Groups and individuals can often sign up to volunteer for the decorating process, typically through a designated community outreach program.
How long does it take to set up all the decorations?
+
The entire decorating process takes around a week, culminating in the grand tree lighting ceremony. However, planning and crafting some of the decorations can start months in advance.
Are there any special events during the holiday season at Grove Park Inn?
+
Apart from the tree lighting ceremony, there are numerous holiday events like gingerbread house contests, carol singing, Santa visits, and special holiday dining experiences.
