Beards have been grown and groomed for thousands of years to signal virility, strength, and, in some cases, intimidation. Although some of the attitudes surrounding beards have changed back and forth over the years, one thing is certain: men will want to make sure their beards are in order for World Beard Day, celebrated each first Saturday of September. That’s when this holiday celebrates the beard in all its glory.

The History of World Beard Day

Although some sources have attempted to attribute World Beard Day to a beard holiday practiced among the Vikings over 1,200 years ago, there’s no proof that this holiday was celebrated during the month of September. No, this holiday is more of a modern invention and was created around 2010 to get people to appreciate men with beards. It’s currently unknown who started it, but it’s quite clear that it was started for the glorification of beard culture.

Interesting Facts About Beards

Beards aren’t just a traditional symbol of masculinity; they’re also a very interesting form of hair growth. Don’t believe us? If you don’t, then hang around and find out some interesting facts about beards.

Abraham Lincoln Was Encouraged to Grow a Beard by an 11-Year-Old

Although Abraham Lincoln is now known for his beard, that wasn’t always the case. There was a point in time when he was clean-shaven. One day, however, he received a letter from an 11-year-old named Grace Bedell who encouraged him to grow a beard. The letter went on to say that growing a beard would aid in his presidential bid. It must have worked because he had a full beard by the time he was elected president.

Valentine Tapley Refused to Shave His Beard for 50 Years

A Democrat from Missouri vowed that he would never shave his beard if Abraham Lincoln was elected president. Evidently, he stuck to his vow because, 50 years later—at the time of his death—his beard measured over 12 feet in length.

Beards Were Part of the Uniform of Prussian Soldiers During the 17th Century

During the 17th century, beards were held in such high esteem that they were a required part of the Prussian Army’s uniform. All soldiers were expected to grow one, and any soldier incapable of growing one was required to draw a beard on their face.

How to Celebrate World Beard Day

Celebrating World Beard Day is an easy endeavor. All a person has to do is organize events around the appreciation of their beards. This can mean hosting a beard BBQ party or having a beard contest that gives away awards for the longest, strongest, or most impressive beards. Participants can also use the hashtag #WorldBeardDay to show off their beards on social media.