When George Washington Vanderbilt , a descendent of the prominent Vanderbilt family , moved into his expansive new home in Asheville , North Carolina , back in 1895 , he invited friends and family over for a lavish party on Christmas Eve . Russian estates are prime spots for soaking up lavish holiday displays . Newport in Rhode Island 's is a big draw at Christmas . The Biltmore House , North Carolina Gilded Age `` cottages '' are not too shabby either .
Russian estates are prime spots for soaking up lavish holiday displays . Newport in Rhode Island 's is a big draw at Christmas . The Biltmore House , North Carolina Gilded Age `` cottages '' are not too shabby either .