Hallmark Casting Extras for Biltmore Estate Christmas Movie

Hallmark is heading back to one of America’s most iconic estates. This time, the stakes, scale, and sparkle are even bigger.

A second holiday movie is officially slated to film at Asheville’s legendary Biltmore Estate, transporting viewers straight into the heart of the Gilded Age during Christmas of 1895. With record-breaking interest from hopeful extras and a familiar creative team returning, this project is shaping up to be one of Hallmark’s most ambitious holiday romances yet. Downtown Asheville will also join the production, adding a new dimension to the film’s setting.

The Return of Hallmark to the Biltmore Estate

For fans of lavish period dramas and cozy holiday romances, the announcement feels like a gift unwrapped early. Hallmark’s decision to return to the Biltmore Estate shows real confidence in the location and excitement for the story world first explored in its earlier production.

The sprawling estate, with its historic architecture and opulent interiors, offers a level of authenticity that modern sets just can’t match. The new film is designed as a love story set during the estate’s opening era, immersing viewers in the elegance and social traditions of the late 19th century.

By placing the narrative around Christmas Eve of 1895, the production leans into nostalgia, romance, and seasonal grandeur. The Gilded Age setting is more than just window dressing—this era, defined by industrial growth, opulence, and strict social customs, gives the story some real emotional texture.

From candlelit halls to period-accurate costumes, every detail aims to transport viewers back roughly 130 years. The Biltmore Estate itself becomes a character in the film, serving as both a backdrop and a symbol of aspiration, romance, and tradition during a pivotal moment in American history.

Filming Schedule and Locations Revealed

Production is scheduled to begin in January 2026. Cameras will roll from mid-January through early February, which should help filmmakers capture that authentic winter ambiance.

This winter timeline also lines up with Hallmark’s meticulous production calendar. While much of the filming will happen on the Biltmore Estate grounds, the production is expanding into downtown Asheville, bringing a broader sense of place to the story.

Downtown Asheville Joins the Spotlight

Several beloved Asheville landmarks are expected to appear on screen, adding visual variety and local flavor. Locations like the Fine Arts Theatre and Pack’s Tavern will help ground the film in a real, living community, not just a single enclosed setting.

This blend of estate grandeur and small-city charm gives the movie a richer emotional palette. Hallmark audiences seem to love that mix during its annual holiday programming.

A Familiar Creative Team Returns

One of the most reassuring elements for fans is the return of key members of the creative team behind the earlier Biltmore-based holiday film. Their familiarity with the location, historical context, and logistical challenges should make for a smoother production and a more refined final product.

Returning creatives often mean continuity in tone and quality. In this case, it also suggests that lessons learned during the previous shoot are being put to good use.

Building on Past Success

The earlier film proved that the Biltmore Estate could successfully host a major holiday production without losing its historical dignity. This second project seems ready to build on that foundation with a more expansive vision and even higher production values.

Record-Breaking Demand to Be an Extra

Perhaps the most jaw-dropping detail surrounding the production is the overwhelming response from people hoping to appear on screen. Interest in working as a background actor reached historic levels for a Hallmark film.

Out of approximately 8,000 applicants, only 300 were selected. That’s a new record and really shows just how coveted this opportunity has become.

Less Than Four Percent Made the Cut

The numbers tell a striking story: fewer than four percent of applicants were chosen. This is one of the most competitive casting calls in Hallmark history.

The demand reflects not only the popularity of holiday movies but also the prestige of filming at such an iconic location. For those selected, the experience promises a front-row seat to a major production steeped in history and holiday magic.

What Extras Can Expect on Set

Hallmark is actively seeking local talent of all ages to fill background roles throughout the filming period. The production is committed to hiring from the surrounding community, reinforcing its connection to Asheville and western North Carolina.

Extras will be compensated at a rate that reflects industry standards while acknowledging the long days that come with film production. The pay rate is set at $120 per day for an eight-hour workday, with overtime kicking in after eight hours.

Participants should be prepared for days that can stretch up to 12 hours, which is pretty common on professional sets. Filming is expected to continue through early February, and casting will remain ongoing throughout that period, so some applicants may not hear back immediately.

How to Apply to Be Part of the Movie

For those still dreaming of stepping into the Gilded Age, the application process is refreshingly straightforward. Hallmark is prioritizing clear communication and essential details to streamline casting.

Applicants are asked to submit their information via email, with specific requirements to ensure efficiency. Those interested should prepare the following:

• A recent photo
• Full name
• Age
• Phone number
• Height
• Weight

Including the correct subject line is essential, as casting teams are sorting through thousands of submissions.

Countdown to Christmas 2026

The finished film is expected to premiere as part of Hallmark’s 2026 Countdown to Christmas programming. That event draws millions of viewers each year.

Placement within this lineup is a mark of confidence and suggests the network sees this project as a standout. With its period setting, iconic location, and built-in holiday romance, the movie is positioned to become one of the most talked-about releases of the season.

A Holiday Event in the Making

Anticipation is definitely building. The mix of historical romance and festive storytelling feels almost custom-made for Hallmark’s crowd.

Blending Christmas magic with all the Gilded Age grandeur, this production aims for both pure escapism and that cozy emotional warmth. It’s easy to see why people are getting excited.

For fans, locals, and even hopeful extras, returning to the Biltmore Estate isn’t just about another film shoot. It’s really about celebrating history, community, and the power of holiday stories that just don’t quit.