The 2009 World Beard and Moustache Championship is quickly approaching! Ready those facial follicles for some serious celebration.

On May 23rd, the world’s most elaborately hirsute will convene in Anchorage, Alaska for a true face-off. And what fun awaits in the great state of Alaska! From a parade of bearded men to the town center, to an opening party featuring the Australian rock band, The Beards (who sing songs for and about people with beards), these hairy blokes know how to party.

The main competition has three main categories: mustaches, partial beards and full beards. Each of those categories is then divided into 18 separated classes: from “Imperial Mustaches” and the “Musketeer” to the “Garibaldi Beard” and “Whaler Beard.” The best category of all, is “Freestyle,” when all the  stops are pulled and competitors grow hair of all shapes, sizes and carefully manicured styles. You can check out all the categories by clicking here.

While some disagreement exists as to the true origins of the World Beard and Moustache Championships, it can be traced to the first competition in 1990, held in Höfen/Enz, Germany, a small village in the Black Forest.  However, others say the event started in Italy sometime in the 1970s. Either way, it’s an excuse to toss aside your razor and join your bearded buddies in celebration.

Tickets for the competition and judging are available now (Get your tickets by March 7th for an early bird discount!). For more information (or sign up to compete) by clicking here!