Some 300,000 venture out for Bele Chere

It may not have the kitschy-ness of the National Hollerin' Contest in Spivey's Corner, the "old-timey" quaintness of Mount Airy's Mayberry Days, or even the Southern Charm of Wilmington's Azalea Festival. But Asheville's Bele Chere could be the biggest one of them all.

Some 300,000 people made it out to this year's version this past weekend. And that was despite a heavy downpour, according to the Asheville Citizen-Times.

The astonishing variety of handmade items for sale is one of the draws of the three-day festival, which coordinator Melissa Porter proclaimed a success on Sunday. She cited the packed venues at the three headliner stages at the Asheville Renaissance Hotel parking lot and on Coxe and Biltmore avenues Friday and Saturday nights.

"I was talking to a booking agent, and we were really able to diversify our entertainment schedule this year, and I think it really worked to our advantage," she said. "We just had great crowds on both nights for all three stages." ...

With more manageable crowds and no alcohol allowed, the last day of the festival is the best for those like Asheville resident Mistie Smith, who brought granddaughters Kamyla, 7, and Dee Dee, 3.

"There is so much to do for the kids, especially on Sunday," Smith said as she munched on teriyaki chicken while the girls enjoyed cotton candy, painted butterflies adorning their cheeks.

"As far as bringing the kids, Sunday is the best."

Raleigh's WRAL has a terrific Bele Chere slideshow, available here.