A unique way that Frontier Days celebrates our roots is by hosting our historic Beard Contest. Starting in 1938, a beard growing contest has been often held at Frontier Days to boost community spirits. Swift Current became known as the “Bearded City” and contestants come from all over the great Southwest to attend and compete. The annual Beard Contest put Swift Current on the map when it was discussed in Parliament in Ottawa as an example of a city working to boost moral. In its hay day, the competition required contestants carry a “Beard Permit”, with the winners being awarded huge prizes.