The Annual Beard Competition Takes Over Viking Invasion Weekend –
August 30th, 31st & September 1st, 2025
HOLLY, MI — The Michigan Renaissance Festival invites Vikings and fierce facial hair to take center stage during Viking Invasion Weekend, happening August 30th, 31st, and September 1st! The wildly popular Whisker Wars Beard Competition returns, showcasing the boldest beards, mustaches, and creatively coiffed facial masterpieces the realm has to offer.
Returning this year is the world-renowned, Mark Byrnes, the 2025 World Beard Champion, for full beard and styled mustache over 15 cm who will serve as a guest judge and help crown this year’s best beards in a variety of competitive categories. Each day, the winner with the finest facial hair shall compete online for the title of Whisker Wars Beard Grand Champion, with the victor claiming a 2026 Royal Pass to the Realm!
The competition is proudly sponsored by Natural Viking, a beloved festival vendor known for their premium beard care products and long-standing support of the Renaissance community. “We are thrilled to partner with Natural Viking for the fourth year and to welcome back Mark Byrnes as judge,” said Kim Petit, Host & Festival HR. “The Beard Competition is a fan-favorite and an iconic part of Viking Invasion Weekend. It’s hairy. It’s hilarious. It’s not to be missed!”
Whether you’re rocking a mighty mane, sporting a subtle stache, or just there to cheer on the contenders, the Beard Competition is one of the weekend’s standout events—full of fun, flair, and fierce follicular pride.
Event Info: When: August 30th & 31st and September 1st, 2025 Where: Michigan Renaissance Festival – 12600 Dixie Hwy. Holly, MI 48442 For tickets and competition details: www.michrenfest.com
Join us and let your beard do the talking!
12600 Dixie Hwy, Holly, MI 48433
248.634.5552
info@michrenfest.com
