If you've been growing out a serious beard or training a competition-worthy mustache, there's no shortage of stages to show it off on. From international championships to a major event right here in the U.S. this August, competitive bearding has a packed calendar for anyone ready to put their grooming routine to the test.

Here's a look at the major competitions on the calendar and what's confirmed so far for 2026.

World Beard and Moustache Championships

The World Beard and Moustache Championships, or WBMC, is the biggest stage in competitive bearding. It's an international event that draws competitors from dozens of countries, and it's run by the World Beard and Moustache Association on a biennial schedule, meaning it happens every two years on odd-numbered years.

The most recent WBMC took place in July 2025 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, hosted by the Mad Viking Pennsylvania Beard Club, with competitors showcasing everything from Natural Full Beard to Freestyle and Handlebar Moustache categories. The next World Championships are scheduled for 2027 in Blackpool, England, hosted by the Sandgrown Beardsmen, with 2029 already set for Spokane, Washington.

Since the WBMC only happens every other year, 2026 falls on an off year for the world stage, but that's exactly when the national-level competitions step up.

National Beard and Moustache Championships

Run by Beard Team USA, the National Beard and Moustache Championships are held in even-numbered years, which makes 2026 the year for this one. As of now, the location and exact date for the 2026 National Championships haven't been finalized. Beard Team USA has indicated they're looking at hosting somewhere in the Southeastern, Southern, or Central United States this year, with the date kept flexible.

If you're hoping to compete or just attend, this is a great event to keep an eye on. Beard Team USA typically shares location and date confirmations as the year progresses, so check their official channels for the latest announcement.

Great American Beard and Moustache Championship: Los Angeles, August 29, 2026

The headline event on this year's calendar is confirmed and on the books. The Great American Beard and Moustache Championship, organized by the North American Competitive Beard and Moustache Alliance along with the Gentlemen's Social Club of Los Angeles, is set for August 29, 2026, in Los Angeles, California, at the Boomtown Brewery in the LA Arts District.

This grassroots event is backed by more than 60 facial hair clubs across the United States and Canada and draws competitors from well beyond North America. Held every even-numbered year, it's become one of the most respected charity-driven competitions in the bearding community, with past events raising thousands of dollars for causes like animal welfare organizations.

Doors typically open early for pre-judging before the competition kicks off, so if you're planning to compete or attend, plan to arrive well ahead of the main event.

Smaller Regional Events All Year Long

Beyond the major championships, there's a steady stream of regional and local competitions throughout the year. We are proud to sponsor the Idaho's Wild West Brewfest this year. The competition starts at 6:45pm. There are going to be some epic beards and mustaches there. Don't be late!

If you're new to competing, these local contests are also where a lot of guys first get serious about their grooming routine, since showing up next to other dedicated beards and mustaches has a way of raising everyone's standards.

How to Show Up Ready

Whether you're heading to a backyard brewery contest or making the trip to Los Angeles for the Great American Championship in August, preparation matters just as much as growth time. Judges notice the difference between a beard that's been cared for daily and one that was thrown together the morning of the event.

This is where having a complete, reliable routine pays off. Our Franky T Beard Kit is built for exactly this kind of preparation. Prepare for competitions with comprehensive kits that include beard oil, balm, and a sandalwood comb, like our Franky T Beard Kit, to ensure your beard is in top condition for any event.

The kit includes our Franky T beard balm, Franky T beard oil, and a sandalwood comb, all made with all-natural ingredients featuring a frankincense and tangerine scent profile that's become one of our most requested combinations. Using the oil and balm together in the weeks leading up to a competition keeps your beard hydrated, manageable, and easier to style, while the sandalwood comb helps train and shape it daily without the snagging and static you get from cheaper plastic combs.

Showing up to a competition with a beard that's healthy from the inside out makes every styling decision easier on the day itself.

The Bottom Line

Whether you're chasing a spot at the National Championships, training toward a future World Championship appearance, or making plans for Los Angeles this August, the months leading up to a competition are where the real work happens. Keep an eye on official announcements for confirmed dates, and use the time ahead of your event to build a beard that's ready to compete.

Shop the Better Man Franky T Beard Kit