The Beards Are Coming: Beards & Queers Celebration

Executive Director of PhillyGayCalendar



The Beard Gang, a movement that has exploded in popularity all across the world in the span of a few years, has been the symbol of masculinity and pride for some time now. But let’s not forget where the Beard craze originated in pop culture.

The “Philly Beard,” is one of the most iconic symbols birthed on the grounds of inner city Afro-Muslim and Latino communities of Philly, and gained mainstream popularity after the rise of Philadelphia’s hometown music group, State Property, was discovered by rap icon Jay-Z. From there, the “Philly Beard” was live and in effect in television, film and music. The Philadelphia LGBTQAI community is not immune to this craze.

“We are embracing the beard and carry pride with our man fur on our faces more than ever and I LOVE IT” Stro Kyle creator of Beards & Queers says. “I wanted to create an event that honors and gives appreciation to where the “The Philly Beard” originated. I love the universal love and understanding about obtaining and taking care of your beard."

People from all walks of life can relate. Just by looking at the event page, line up and response by the community you get the sense this is the start of something fresh and new. Especially at a time when Philadelphia’s LGBTQAI scene craves for new and innovative ways of celebrating culture.

In honor of the Beard movement, Stro Kyle put together a list of his favorite top 10 Beards of Philly. “Our beards are just as diverse as our culture.”

1. Rudy Fletcher

2. Marcus Bond

3. Demo Perez

4. Stephen Williams

5. Jake Cook

6. Donte Turner

7. Nik Hampshire

8. Louie Ortiz

9. Vernon Brown

10. Daniel Theodore Harris.

Beards & Queers debuts Saturday August 29th at Tabu Sports Bar and Lounge sponsored and supported by Maestros Classic Beard Company, and Andre Richards Hair Salon and will be hosted by Nik Hampshire, featuring the eclectic sounds of DJ John Morrison. Put together by new Philly promoter and queer activist, Stro Kyle.

Read Related Posts...