Facial hair enthusiasts, cosplay fans, craft supporters and local charity advocates are gearing up for one of North Carolina’s most vibrant and unique annual gatherings. Hosted by Cape Beard, Beardtoberfest: Beard-A-Con is a premier facial hair competition and celebration that draws competitors and spectators from across the country. Held at Dirtbag Ales Brewery and Taproom, doors will open at 6 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 17.
By seamlessly blending the spirited warmth of a traditional Oktoberfest with the celebration of all things facial hair, Beardtoberfest has earned a reputation as a must-attend fixture on the regional event calendar. This year, the organizers are elevating the excitement even further with an imaginative horror movie theme. Attendees are encouraged to step into the spirit of the season by dressing up in spooky, cinematic or pop-culture attire, taking photos with competitors, and enjoying a fun-filled atmosphere built around friendship, family entertainment, and civic goodwill.
Admission to this unforgettable community gathering is $15, while entry into the competition itself is free for all participants. Most importantly, every single dollar raised through admission and event activities is donated directly to the Karen Chandler Trust, a local non-profit organization dedicated to helping Fayetteville families facing the daunting financial challenges of a cancer diagnosis.
At the core of Beardtoberfest is an inclusive, high-energy competition designed to celebrate creativity, grooming, and personal style across all skill levels and ages. Competitors include those who have been cultivating a year-long natural beard, carefully styling a handlebar moustache, or hand-crafting an elaborate costume. There is a place for everyone on the Beardtober stage.
The event features thirteen distinct competition categories:
• Children's Costume Contest
• Lady - Creative
• Lady - Realistic
• Moustache - Styled or Natural
• Whaler, Donegal (this category honors traditional jawline-focused styles and classic “chin curtains” without a moustache.
• Partial Beard - Natural, Goatee, Mutton
• Partial Beard - Styled
• Full Beard - Groomed
• Full Beard with Styled Moustache
• Full Beard - Natural - 1 to 6 inches
• Full Beard - Natural - 6 to 12 inches
• Full Beard - Natural - 12 inches and more
• Freestyle
Behind this energetic event is Cape Beard: Follicles of Freedom, Beard and Moustache Club. Founded in Fayetteville in 2011, Cape Beard is a non-profit organization composed of facial hair enthusiasts from all walks of life. Its members specialize in various trades and professions, leveraging their diverse skills, time and enthusiasm to give back to the local community.
Over the past decade, Cape Beard has grown into one of the largest and most active facial hair clubs in North Carolina. Through consistent fundraising efforts, local business partnerships and strong support from area families, the organization has achieved remarkable milestones, including raising over $252,376 for local charitable causes and family relief funds. They’ve been recognized by the City of Fayetteville for their community service and civic impact through an official proclamation.
Cape Beard credits its ongoing momentum to the local businesses, families and friends who attend their rallies, enter their competitions, and help turn creative events into meaningful local support.
The ultimate purpose behind Beardtoberfest: Beard-A-Con is to support the vital work of the Karen Chandler Trust.
Operating strictly without administrative overhead, the Karen Chandler Trust ensures that every cent raised goes directly to local Fayetteville families suffering from the severe financial strain of fighting cancer. When a family member undergoes cancer treatment, non-medical living expenses can rapidly accumulate, adding overwhelming stress to an already difficult emotional journey.
Unlike traditional health charities that focus primarily on medical bills or research, the Karen Chandler Trust concentrates on easing the crucial everyday living expenses that keep households running. Funds raised from Beardtoberfest are distributed directly to help patients cover essential daily necessities.
By turning a weekend of horror-themed costumes, festive Oktoberfest spirit, and facial hair camaraderie into direct financial relief, Beardtoberfest proves that community support can be both deeply meaningful and immensely entertaining. Mark your calendar, prepare your outfit or grooming routine, and join Cape Beard in making a real difference for local families in need. For more information on Beardtoberfest: Beard-a-Con, or to purchase tickets, visit https://www.facebook.com/events/1479122857580637