This competition proudly supports Caring Veterans of America. 

All proceeds are donated directly to support local veterans

Meet the Judges

Man with glasses and a cap, wearing a plaid shirt and long beard, standing indoors against a pale wall

Mike Brewer aka Coffee with Brewer on IG, YouTube, and TikTok, lives in Cheyenne, Wyoming, and has been bearding  for over 20 years, competing for the last 5. 


While he’s not affiliated with any one beard club, he actively supports and participates in events across the country. 


He’s also the co-host of The Bearded Respect on YouTube, a show that highlights the bearded community and beard clubs nationwide. 


Mike’s passion for bearding started after leaving the Army, when he grew his “freedom beard” and never looked back.


He’s earned multiple awards, including 1st place and Best in Show at the 2024 Land of 10,000 Whiskers and top honors at competitions like You Matter 4 and 5, Wolek’s Famous Beard Championship, the Fredericton Barber Convention, National Beard and Moustache Championships, Midwest Beard Fest, Mile High Beard Bout, and most recently took 1st place and Best in Show at the Laramie County (WY) State Fair! 


Mike enjoys the camaraderie and fundraising spirit behind every event.   I am truly honored to be apart of this judging panel and excited to check out all of the Celtic Festival exhibits!
Portrait of a bearded man in a black shirt against a dark studio backdrop

Dave Couch is the creator behind the Born Bearded YouTube channel, where he shares honest beard product reviews, grooming education, practical beard care advice, and conversations that go beyond grooming. Through Born Bearded, Dave has built a supportive community centered on beards, mental health, personal growth, and creating a space where people feel comfortable sharing their experiences and supporting one another.


In addition to creating content, Dave is an active member of the competitive bearding community and has participated in beard competitions across the country. In 2025, he competed at the World Beard & Moustache Championships in Pittsburgh, where he earned 7th place in his category.


His experience as both a competitor and content creator has given him a strong appreciation for the dedication, creativity, patience, and craftsmanship that go into competitive bearding. Dave values the relationships, camaraderie, and sense of community these events create, as well as the many ways beard competitions use their platforms to support veterans, local organizations, and other charitable causes.


Whether he is behind the camera, attending an event, helping run a competition, or stepping onto the stage himself, Dave’s goal is to represent the bearded community with honesty, encouragement, and respect.

Born Bearded can be found on YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook.
GET TICKETS & ENTER CONTEST

All beards assemble! From classic full beards to Celtic-inspired showpieces, our Great Celtic Beard Off Contest celebrates grooming, creativity, and community pride. Step on stage, show your style, and win the crowd—then the judges.


When/Where:

Competition is held at Yosemite Celtic Festival on Saturday, October 17th at Oakhurst Community Center Celtic Howl Stage.


Entry:

Sign up for one or more categories during your event ticket purchase. 


Check-in:

30 minutes before your category time.


Award Categories (Total: 11)

(Organizers may combine/split categories based on entries.)

Full Beard (length measured from bottom lip to longest point):

  •  Full Beard – Short (≤6")
  •  Full Beard – Medium (6.1"–12")
  •  Full Beard – Long (12"+)


Free Style Beard

  •  Any Length


Mustache:

  • Mustache – Natural (minimal product)
  • Mustache – Styled (wax/product & curls welcome)


Additional Categories:

  • Partial Beard (goatee, chops and whaler)
  • Veteran's Freedom Beards (any length, any style)
  • Whiskerinas (crafted beards, secured to face)
  • Wee Whiskers (kids crafted beards)
  • Best in Show (1st place winners from all adult categories)


Judging Criteria


  • Grooming & Care: cleanliness, conditioning, tidy lines
  • Shape & Symmetry: silhouette, balance, proportionality
  • Density & Texture: fullness, health, consistency
  • Presentation & Stage Presence: confidence, costume, family friendly presentation
  • Instrumental Performances not allowed during competition.  Entertainment will be arranged for intermission periods.

Official Rules


  1. Family-Friendly: Keep it PG. No offensive symbols, language, or props.
  2. Safety: No sharp/unsafe accessories; avoid shedding mess (no loose glitter/confetti).
  3. Natural vs. Styled:
  • Natural categories (Full Beard lengths, Partial Beard, Mustache–Natural): no extensions, dyes, or fillers; light grooming product OK.
  • Styled/Freestyle: safe products/tools/temporary color allowed.
  1. Eligibility: Choose one primary category (Crowd Favorite and Best in Show are automatic).
  2. Check-in & Call Times: Miss your call = forfeit. Be side-stage 10 minutes prior.
  3. Youth: Under 18 may enter only with parent/guardian present; they must compete in an appropriate category.
  4. Photography Release: Participation grants photo/video use for festival promotion.
  5. Conduct: Be courteous to staff, judges, and fellow competitors.
  6. Registration Cap: Limited entries per category; waitlist may be used.


Prizes & Recognition


Adult Category Winners:  Whisker care & pampering prizes  + website/social shout-out & all of the bragging rights!