One on One Interview with Judges (300 PTS) Each contestant will participate in a private, one-on-one interview with the panel of judges. During this session, judges will ask questions about the contestant’s connection to the LGBT Bear community, including their experiences, contributions, and how they intend to represent and uplift the community. Contestants will also answer personal questions that allow the judges to gain a deeper understanding of who they are beyond the stage.

First Segment: Casual Bear. (100 PTS) In this opening segment, contestants take the stage in their favorite casual attire—Bear Wear is encouraged. This is your chance to introduce yourself and let your personality shine. Speak to the judges and audience about who you are: your interests, passions, and even your fantasies. Whether you're playful, sincere, or bold, this is your opportunity to make a strong first impression. You will be scored on stage presence, poise, and your ability to engage and connect. 

Second Segment: Bear Talk. (300 PTS) In this segment, contestants will take the mic to deliver a 1 to 2 minute speech on a community-focused topic. The topic will be provided during the Friday evening Meet & Greet event, giving you time to reflect and prepare. This is your opportunity to share your voice, speak from the heart, and show your passion for the community. Confidence, clarity, and authenticity will shine brightest here. 

Third Segment: Bear Minimum. (300 PTS) This is your moment to let your star shine bright! In this playful and provocative segment, contestants take the stage fully clothed and perform a tasteful "strip tease" to a song of their own choosing. Swimwear or underwear is acceptable attire; however, jock straps, genital exposure, and bare buttocks are strictly prohibited. The focus here is on confidence, creativity, and stage presence. Removing some clothing is encouraged to enhance your performance, but there are no specific requirements on which pieces you take off. Use this opportunity to express yourself, command the stage, and leave a lasting impression.

• You must be 21 years of age as of October 9, 2026, and identify as male

• You must reside in the New England six state region. (MA, ME, NH, VT, CT, RI) 

• You must be a member in good standing of the LGBTQ+ community. The MBC Board will review all social media and reserves the right, along with the judges, to determine if any contestant’s behavior conflicts with the organization’s mission and values. They may decline any application or remove any contestant at any time due to behavior deemed inappropriate.

• You must be available on:

  1. Friday, October 9, 2026, for a Meet and Greet event starting at 8 p.m. and lasting until approximately midnight. (Venue TBA) 

  2. Saturday, October 10, 2026, for rehearsal and judges' interview from 2 p.m. until 5 p.m., and the main event from 7 p.m. until approximately midnight.  

  1. Sunday, October 18, 2026, for  Bear Tea at Club Cafe, where you will be introduced to the community. 

  There shall be no private communication of any kind or meetings between contestants and judges at any time prior to the event.  All communication between the judges and contestants shall take place during the interviews held on the day of the event and during the event itself.  It is inappropriate to contact any judge for any reason whatsoever prior to the event. 

  All questions/communications regarding the contest, eligibility,  rules, expectations of winner, or any other topic shall be submitted in writing to MBC at den@massbearsandcubs.org

  Winners are not allowed to enter any other local title contest during their MBC title year.