ASHEVILLE, NC – The City of Asheville invites the community to "Chere the Fun" by volunteering for the 2012 Bele Chere Festival Friday, July 27 through Sunday, July 29. Now in its 34th year, Bele Chere is a celebration of the region's art, music, and culture in downtown Asheville. The festivities are supported by scores of volunteers who contribute their time and talents to make the Bele Chere Festival successful.

Available volunteer opportunities include working in the children's area, staffing information booths, assisting visitors in the Senior Oasis, and more. Volunteers who work at least one 3.5 hour shift will receive a free Bele Chere t-shirt and snacks during their shift. Volunteers must be at least 16 years of age.

Additional volunteer information and an interest form are available on the official Bele Chere website at http://www.belecherefestival.com or by calling (828) 259-5800.

Bele Chere is produced by the City of Asheville Parks, Recreation and Cultural Arts Department in conjunction with the Bele Chere Board of Directors and is the largest free street festival in the Southeast. It is sponsored in part by Clear Channel Radio and Budweiser of Asheville. For more information, visit http://www.belecherefestival.com or call (828) 259-5800.