It’s Barbie’s 50th birthday this year (as if you didn’t know), and what an opportunity to mark the doll’s dual role as a role model for young girls (for better or for worse) and the catalyst for adolescent boys’ sexual awakenings.

So far we’ve had art exhibitions and a fashion show at Fashion Week, but taking it to a whole new level of kitsch is the free Barbie’s 50th Birthday Beauty Pageant at SideBar from 7pm tonight.

We’ve confirmed that there are people willing to compete, although rumors that Sarah Palin is making an appearance are unconfirmed. Part of the contest is audience choice so down some Malibu Barbie cocktails and whoop and holler for your favorite.

And check back here tomorrow to gawk at a slide show from the event.