National Moustache, Beard, Goatee and Historical Characters Festival

A national competition dedicated to beards and moustaches

The National Moustache, Beard, Goatee and Historical Characters Festival is one of the most curious and entertaining events in the spring calendar of Monteroni d'Arbia, a municipality in the Province of Siena, in the heart of Tuscany, along the Via Cassia between the provincial capital and the Crete Senesi. Established in 2023, the festival has grown rapidly to become a true Italian championship dedicated to beard and moustache care, attracting contestants from numerous regions of the peninsula, from Puglia to Piedmont, passing through Lazio, Marche, Umbria, and, of course, Tuscany.

How the competition works

The heart of the event is the category-based competition, judged by a panel of expert barbers who evaluate the grooming, originality, and poise of the contestants. The festival's historical categories include:

• Natural Beard
• Freestyle Beard
• Natural Moustache
• Freestyle Goatee

Starting with the 2026 edition, a major new feature was added: Historical Characters, which expands the spirit of the event towards re-enactment and costume, adding even more color to the day. The overall winner takes home the most coveted title: Best Beard of the Year.

More than just a competition

Beyond the competition, the festival is an occasion for celebration and meeting. The day begins in the morning with the check-in of pre-registered participants, including professional grooming for beards and moustaches, while the afternoon is dedicated to the competition itself, enriched by performances and entertainment. Over the years, the event has featured a special godmother and various entertainment acts, making it suitable for curious onlookers and families alike.

Organizers

The event is promoted by La Bottega Scuola di Buonconvento, with the patronage of the Municipality of Monteroni d'Arbia, and takes place at the Papillon Garden. The organizational soul behind it is Luciano Sinatti, who has successfully transformed a niche passion into a national event capable of combining lightheartedness, the tradition of the barber's craft, and a sense of community.

Monteroni d'Arbia and the Crete Senesi

A visit to the festival is also an opportunity to discover Monteroni d'Arbia and the evocative landscape of the Crete Senesi, characterized by clay hills, villages, and medieval churches. The area, just a few kilometers from Siena, is one of the most photographed parts of Tuscany and offers unforgettable views in every season.