Some fall festivals could happen anywhere, but Hairy Man Festival could only happen in Round Rock.

The 32nd annual celebration returns to Cat Hollow Park on Saturday, Oct. 17, with the Hairy Man 5K starting that morning at Creekside Park and the main festival beginning at noon.

The Hairy Man 5K begins at 9 a.m. at Creekside Park. Race registration is $20 for an individual or $45 for a family; preregistration closes at 9 a.m. Friday, Oct. 16, with on-site registration available 30 minutes before the start.

Admission to the main festival is free.

Organizers suggest bringing two nonperishable food items or $2 per person to support the Round Rock Serving Center.

That small contribution turns a quirky local outing into an easy act of community support.

Families can expect live music, food and craft vendors, carnival games, face painting, inflatables, petting zoos and Halloween-themed activities.

The official schedule places the sauce contest at 1 p.m. and the costume contest at 2 p.m.

The festival saves its most unmistakably local traditions for late afternoon.

The Hairy Man legend is scheduled to be read at 4:15 p.m., followed by the Hairiest Man Contest at 4:30 p.m.

It is a wonderfully odd combination of folklore, friendly competition and neighborhood pride.

That local character is exactly why the event has lasted more than three decades.

The festival also gives nonprofits and community vendors a visible place to raise funds and meet residents.

For newcomers, it is a quick introduction to the personality of the Brushy Creek area.

For longtime residents, it is one of those annual events that marks the arrival of fall more reliably than the weather.

Cat Hollow Park is at 8320 O’Connor Drive, and large crowds can change the easiest way into the park.

Check the official event map and parking map before leaving home, especially if you plan to arrive near the afternoon contests.

Bring a donation, comfortable shoes and enough time to wander rather than racing from one scheduled activity to the next.

The practical details are simple: Oct. 17, noon to 5 p.m., free admission to the festival.

The rest is pure Round Rock—music, costumes, local legends and a contest that rewards the boldest beard in the park.

Official festival details: Brushy Creek MUD Hairy Man Festival 2026

Maps: 2026 Event Map and Parking & Road Closure Map

Race: Hairy Man 5K registration and details

Contest: Hairiest Man Contest information

Community partner: Round Rock Area Serving Center