Scotland’s most distinctive celebration of beards, community and creativity returns to Drygate Brewery, Glasgow, on Friday 20th and Saturday 21st February 2026 for the Braw Beard Weekender – the only event of its kind in the UK.
Now in its eighth year, the beard competition is expected to welcome a full house once again, continuing a streak that has seen thousands of competitors and spectators attend since 2017 from across the UK, USA, Germany, Belgium and Norway.
On Friday 20th February, The Braw Cast Live podcast will be hosted by comedian Billy Kirkwood and Braw Beard founder John Jackson, with special guests including Jesse Leach, frontman of Grammy-nominated metal band Killswitch Engage.
Leach, who has been open about his own experiences with mental health, will discuss the importance of community, self-care and creativity.
He recently collaborated with Braw Beard on The Resilient beard oil, a limited-edition blend created by Jesse. He’ll be joined on stage by professional wrestler and actor Jack Jester, artist and author Tragic O’Hara and multi-award-winning barber Angela Dickson.
On Saturday 21st February, the Braw Beard & Moustache Championships return, featuring 13 categories ranging from Best Fake Beard to Over 12-inch Styled and Best Ginger Beard. The night will include live music from In Charge, exclusive products and the trademark camaraderie that defines the global beard community.
“It’s incredible to see how far this community has grown,” says John Jackson, founder of Braw Beard.
“What started as a small gathering to celebrate creativity and confidence has become an international family with people from around the world sharing respect, humour and a sense of belonging.”
Jesse Leach adds: “I’m honored to be part of the Braw Beard Weekender. To me the culture Braw Beard has created is not just about beards and facial hair, its about support, unity and solidarity!
“I am excited to make the journey and I am sure a good time will be had by all who attend! Grateful to be there for this event!”
The 2026 Weekender comes in the same year that Braw Beard will celebrate its 14th anniversary in October. Founded in 2012, the East Lothian company has grown into Scotland’s first and most recognised beard-care brand, known worldwide for its hand-crafted beard care products.
Proceeds from the event’s charity raffle will once again support Chris’s House Suicide Awareness Charity, a cause central to both Braw Beard and Leach’s advocacy for mental-health awareness.
With its mix of competition, conversation and compassion, the Braw Beard Weekender stands as a fixture in Scotland’s cultural calendar – part beard festival, part family reunion.
Tickets: Limited to 150 on Friday and 300 on Saturday.
Available now at www.thebrawbmc.com