We asked — and boy, did you deliver!
We received a fantastic number of applications for this year’s Bear Brighton Contest, and we would first like to express our thanks to all entrants who were not selected as finalists. It was not an easy decision, but we are very proud to present our six finalists competing for the 2026 title.
Top row (left to right): Craig, Rob, and Harry
Bottom row (left to right): Matteo, Armando, and Ash
To find out more about our contestants, please visit our social media pages to watch their introduction videos. We’re sure you’ll agree that we have a strong line‑up this year, and we are very excited to showcase them in all their glory in the run‑up to the contest. We would also like to congratulate all our finalists for putting themselves forward to represent our community, and we are certain you will join us in celebrating, supporting, and cheering them on throughout this process.
Online voting for the contest opens on Saturday 6 June and closes on Saturday 11 July. The online vote makes up 30% of each contestant’s overall score and will be combined with the judges’ scores and the public vote taken after the contest in Dorset Gardens on Friday 10 July.
Online Voting Rules
In the interest of fairness and the spirit of our contest, each person may cast only one vote.
We know they are a handsome bunch, and you may be tempted to vote for your favourite more than once — but please refrain. Any attempt to manipulate the votes could result in a candidate’s disqualification. Instead, we encourage you to support your favourite bear by waving their flag, sharing their online campaigns, and cheering loudly for them at the contest.
Cast your votes here
Discover our six finalists for the 2026 Bear Brighton Contest. Meet Craig, Rob, Harry, Matteo, Armando, and Ash as they compete for the title. Online voting opens 6 June.