The 4th annual Buckeye Beard Battle hits The Barn this Saturday

The 4th annual Buckeye Beard Battle brings big beards and bands to The Barn in Zanesville this Saturday.

The competition for the best facial hair will feature 11 categories, seven live bands, and a pin-up contest for women to compete in. The Buckeye Beard Battle is a fundraising event organized by the Hemp Wizard Beard Care Company, owned by former Zanesville native Michael Wiseman.

“You know, this is where I grew up. It’s where I was born and raised,” Wiseman said. “And to be able to come up here from South Florida every year to do something for the community, especially with what I’ve seen Combat to Kayaks has been doing this year with the flooding that’s taken place and what they’ve done just for this community, it’s a really good feeling to be able to come up and, you know, give back to the community I grew up with.”

The money raised from entry fees will go to a non-profit called Combat to Kayaks. The local organization helps veterans and first responders with their mental health through camping, kayaking, fishing, and community. They’ve operated a hot food station, helped clean up flood homes, and helped organize a community block party for Roseville residents who needed a good time. For Combat to Kayaks founder, James Clark, this event has become an annual highlight.

“Oh my gosh. It’s amazing. Last year was an absolute blast. We have been looking forward to it all year long,” Clark said. “It’s crazy to see so many people come in from other states even, you know, from all over the country… it helps support our organization. It’s a beautiful thing.”

Around $3,000 was raised last year for Combat to Kayaks and they hope to go beyond that this year. The 4th annual Buckeye Beard Battle starts at noon at the Barn, which is located at 1947 Linden Avenue.