Nothing Wrong With a Little Competition
Photo Credit, Laura Stutzman | Andrew Hill works the crowd to win their approval.
And the winner is…
Come to the 2025 Beard and Mustache Contest and the Victorian Hat Competition to find out.
The annual competitions to determine the Hairyman Champion and the best Victorian hat will be held on Saturday, July 12, at 6:00 PM with your host, Mikey Virts. The first-place winners from each category will go home with an impressive trophy and bragging rights.
The 2025 trophies await their new homes with the deserving winners.
Last year’s winners were Grantsville’s Samuel Gish, who impressed the judges with his auburn beard and waxed mustache, and Baltimore’s Christine McAlpine for her summer garden hat design, complete with a picket fence. Christine has the distinction of winning the top prize for two consecutive years. The winners are judged on a list of criteria that include creativity, uniqueness, and overall appearance. The audience is encouraged to show their support through applause; however, the final decision rests with the panel of judges.
This playful event has become a highlight of the festival weekend, bringing out the best in friendly competition. Early signups are encouraged online or on the day of the competition. Signup sheets will be available until 5:15 p.m. on Saturday at the Victorian Chautauqua Welcome table, located across from the Ticket Office Museum. Contestants are asked to arrive at the Martin Tent by 5:30, where they will be instructed on how to participate.
Special grooming prizes from Deep Creek Salon will be awarded to the Hairyman champion as well as the second and third-place winners. Wildwind Café has sponsored the Victorian Hat Competition, providing the stunning trophy. Wildwind Café is also hosting an Edwardian-inspired Garden Tea, following the competition at their location in Pleasant Valley, just a few miles away. This will be the first off-site event for the Victorian Chautauqua. Reserve your seat by using the link below. Space is limited.
Champion, Samuel Gish
Champion, Christine McAlpine
Host Mikey Virts brings the laughs.
SIGN UP ONLINE
Edwardian Inspired Garden Tea
Hosted by Rebekah Martin
Step back in time to the elegance of the Edwardian era, where afternoon tea was not just a meal but a celebration of refined taste and leisure. Join us for a delightful afternoon, surrounded by lush gardens, classic decor, and timeless traditions.
Wild Wind Cafe
5472 Garrett Hwy
Oakland, MD 21550
Saturday, July 12th, 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM
Ticket Price: $55 per person (includes tea, food, and activities)
