The Donegal Beard growing contest begins on December 31st when all the contestants are clean shaven.

Entry is Free and the fun is Priceless!

You can get your shave free of charge from 1:00pm - 3:00pm at:
Sportsman’s Barber Shop
310 State Street
Watertown, NY
  Can't make the Shave-off? Register online here beginning on New Year's Eve.
   (A photo proving a clean shave along with proof of date on 12/31 or later is required.)

Men are judged on length, fullness, color, shine & texture, style & balance and if it is a true Donegal.  The best beard will be crowned "King of Beards".

Categories to be judged are:

King of Beards
People's Choice (Everyone's favorite!  The winner is selected at the Donegal by the attendees of the Irish Festival)
Most Colorful (The best decorated beard)
Best Accessorized (The best costume, jewelry or theme of some type.  Dress the part and win a prize!)
Senior Division (A category just for our older competitiors.  A minimum of 3 contestants must qualify for this category to be judged)
Under 18 Division (A category for our competitors 18 and under.  A minimum of 3 contestants must qualify for this category to be judged)
New in 2025!
The Donegal Duo (Register on December 31st with a buddy and win.  Choose your partner carefully.  Your combined scores will determine the winner)
  *Note:  It is possible to win in one or more categories*

 Questions?  Contact Sportsman's Barbershop for more details 315-782-2442

Past "King of Beards" Winners"

2024 - Troy Phillips
2023 - Dustin Cooley
2020 - David Grandjean
2019 - Dillon Schorr
2018 - Frank Flack
2017 - John Ellsworth
2016 - Bob Mevec
2015 - Keith Caughlin
2014 - Chris Dandrow
2013 - Al Wood
2012 - Al Franke
2011 - Steve Hunt II