ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — The “fancy” Biltmore Village McDonald’s, beloved for its Biltmore-style design and flourishes like a self-playing piano, celebrated its grand reopening with community leaders, Asheville High School pep and even an appearance from Grimace, the fast food franchise’s purple mascot.

The festivities took place from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Thursday, Jan. 8 at the Biltmore Village McDonald’s, located at 35 Hendersonville Road.

The McDonald’s celebrated its soft reopening last month, but the grand reopening ceremony is a high-profile step forward for Biltmore Village in its recovery from the damage caused by Tropical Storm Helene in September 2024.

Several leaders from Asheville and larger North Carolina attended the ribbon-cutting, including a representative from Governor Josh Stein’s office, members of the Asheville Chamber of Commerce and from Asheville GreenWorks, a community nonprofit which was awarded $1,000 by McDonald’s for their help during the rebuilding process.

“The vibe was cheerful and celebratory,” said 105.5 The Outlaw radio personality Crystal Brown.

Check out a video of the celebration below:

Following the ceremony today, the Biltmore Village McDonald’s will host a Family Day on Saturday, Jan. 10 with the McDonald’s mascot characters. Families are encouraged to stop by for face painting and a raffle.

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