What’s not to like about Beards, Bourbon, Bands and Burlesque? Students and Lexingtonians alike can find out this weekend, all while supporting GreenHouse 17, a local charity focused on supporting victims of domestic abuse.

Cosmic Charlie’s is throwing its fifth two-day spectacular of stage performance and beard competition this Friday and Saturday.

The first night starts off with several bands. The musical performances include, Pulse (Band), The Slams, The Borderline Something, Restless Leg String Band, and DJ Miracle. There will also be local vendors selling goods.

Night two will be the beard competition, and features performances from several burlesque companies, including Siobhan Atomica of Kentucky Academy of Burlesque, Pixie Pistola of Defiance Studios, and Holly Harvest of Vaudeville Louisville. C2 & The Brothers Reed will also perform, closing up the event.

The competition itself is presented by The Nomadic Beardsmen of the Bluegrass, Lexington’s very own competitive beard team. There are thirteen different categories in which competitors can enroll their beard to be judged, from goatees, to natural to Amish. There is even an ambiguous, but intriguing category for freestyle.

Last year, Beards, Bourbon, Bands, and Burlesque raised $5,000 for the organization, and they are looking to raise even more this weekend. Proceeds from a raffle with prizes and ticket money will go to Greenhouse 17.

Anyone looking to participate in the beard competition can sign up Friday night at Cosmic Charlie’s while enjoying the bands. People can also register Saturday night, but only from 8:00-9:00 PM, for the event begins at 9:15 PM.

The cover charge on Friday night is $8, and $20 Saturday night. Tickets are available online through Cosmic Charlie’s website. You must be 21+ to attend this event.