According to event organizer Amy Faulkner, the 100 bearded, mustachioed, and goateed gentlemen competing in the Beard & Stache Fest can mostly be divided into two groups: those participating in the contest to ensure their facial hair’s longevity (despite protesting girlfriends and wives); and guys who go home to women who love every whisker. Make no mistake: Facial-hair disputes can be a burr in any relationship. But Faulkner—who claims neither a beard, nor the embrace of one at home—says that during this month’s hirsute celebration (which concludes at tonight’s awards), she’s fielded more than a couple inquiries as to the romantic status of the contestants. Ladies take note that you can see and vote for all competitors online—it’s like a very hairy version of Facebook, with most guys going by a nom de beard (e.g., Baron von Greezly). And if you see someone cute, chances are that he’ll be at tonight’s ceremonies. (Music included from Elder Mason, Gozer, the Upperhand, and the Stranger Gallery.) Does Faulkner think new relationships might be launched between the bearded and the beard-curious? “It could happen,” she says. “You never know.” Guys, here’s hoping. CHRIS KORNELIS

Sun., March 1, 7:30 p.m., 2009