The Old Kent Market is set to get a little hairier this Movember, as Margate’s first-Mr. Margate: Beard & Moustache Showdown makes its debut on Saturday 29 November.
Created by Lee Thompson of Gentlemen’s Bits of Margate – the market’s resident male grooming products shop – the new event celebrates the art of facial hair, the character of Margate’s creative community and the spirit of Movember — all rolled into one lively afternoon by the sea.
Running from 1pm–6pm – the fun starts at 2pm – the Mr. Margate Showdown will bring together locals, visitors, and traders for a day of friendly competition, music, prizes, and fundraising for men’s health.
Contestants will battle for titles like Best Beard, Best Moustache, Most Creative Facial Hair, and the coveted crown of Mr. Mo Margate 2025.
Lee said: “This is something completely new for Margate. The Old Kent Market is full of creative, independent traders and we wanted to do something that celebrates that local spirit — while also shining a light on men’s health and the Movember cause. It’s fun, community-driven and very Margate.”
With the market’s eclectic mix of food, music, and traders providing the perfect backdrop, the free event promises to capture Margate’s trademark blend of tradition and quirk.
Families are also invited to join in, with a special “Best Kids’ Facial Hair” category encouraging children to get crafty and show off their own facial-hair creations.
Competition Entry: £3 (donation to Movember UK) spectators free.
How to enter
Contestants can sign up now by visiting www.gentsbits.shop/mr-margate or by scanning the QR codes on posters around town.
All proceeds go to Movember UK, supporting men’s mental health, suicide prevention, prostate cancer, and testicular cancer research.
Follow @gents.bits on Instagram and hashtags #MrMargate #BeardsByTheSea #MovemberMargate for updates and entry info.
Why’s he got his head on upside down?
What’s your address, big man?
You chatting him up?
8 Fort Hill, Margate CT9 1HE