GREAT BARRINGTON, Mass. — The town is looking at more than just parades, festivals and car shows for its 250th anniversary celebration, which officially kicked off last month. 

It's sponsoring a good old-fashioned Beard Growing Contest in honor of entertainment of times past. Any "gentleman wanting to grow a beard" is encouraged to go to the Snap Shop on Railroad Street and have his picture taken. This, of course, will be the "before" photo. The judging for the contest will take place on July 10 at Sim’s Barber Shop on Main Street.

Unlike the application for queen and court, which is also part of the 250th celebration, the beard-growing competition does not require a written essay, a statement of good academic standing or proof of community service. Instead, the categories include Longest, Bushiest, Most Naturally Colorful and Most Creative.

One can only imagine … I guess you just make your own fun out here in rural Massachusetts.

I know which category I will be sure to photograph.

For you bushy, burly Berkshire men, the last day for pictures and applications is Tuesday. Stop in to the Snap Shop (bring your application with you, you can download it from the GB 250 website) and have your picture taken.

For those of you who will most likely be absolutely sick of your new pelt by summertime, fear not, the folks at Sim’s will be offering shaves right after the judging. For more information call 413-528-4725.

May the best beard win.