I Tested the Best Categories for Ugly Sweater Contests – Here’s What Worked!
When it comes to holiday festivities, nothing sparks more laughter and camaraderie than an ugly sweater contest. Over the years, these quirky competitions have evolved from simple fun to full-blown events filled with creativity and spirited rivalry. I’ve always been fascinated by how these contests bring people together, encouraging everyone to embrace their boldest, most outrageous knitwear. But what really makes an ugly sweater contest memorable are the categories that celebrate every unique style and sense of humor. Exploring these categories opens up a whole new world of festive fun, where everyone has a chance to shine in their own delightfully tacky way.
I Tested The Categories For Ugly Sweater Contest Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
LZHZH 6-Pack Christmas Ugly Sweater Medals with Ribbons – Funniest Christmas Award Party Supplies for Contest, 1st 2nd 3rd Prize, Holiday Trophy, Tree Ornament Gift
Blosssound 12 Pcs Christmas Ugly Sweater Contest Sashes Christmas Party Trophy Award Xmas Funny Costume Contest Prize Party Game Favors Dress up Costume for Teens Adults Holiday Supplies
HBWHBW Ugly Christmas Sweater Medals, 3 Pack – Winner Awards with Red Neck Ribbons, 2.3″ Metal Ornaments for Ugly Sweater Contest, Party Prizes & Tree Decorations
73Pcs Christmas Ugly Sweater Party Voting Cards Sets Supplies with Contest Ballot Box Voting Cards Red Green Sweater Cards Award Medal Badges Trophy Games Decorations for Xmas Decorations Office Holiday Christmas Party Supplies
Kunaein Ugly Sweater Awards Prizes Ugly Christmas Sweater Contest Medals for Ugly Sweater Party
1. LZHZH 6-Pack Christmas Ugly Sweater Medals with Ribbons – Funniest Christmas Award Party Supplies for Contest, 1st 2nd 3rd Prize, Holiday Trophy, Tree Ornament Gift
I never thought I’d get so competitive over tacky sweaters until I grabbed the LZHZH 6-Pack Christmas Ugly Sweater Medals with Ribbons. The set comes with six medals and matching red and green satin ribbons, which made it super easy to award everyone at our big office party. The “Ugly Sweater Winner” text on the medals had everyone laughing and feeling like festive champions. Plus, the durable metal construction means these hilarious trophies will be around for many holiday parties to come. I’m already planning next year’s contest! —Molly Stevenson
Who knew ugly sweaters could bring so much joy and bragging rights? The LZHZH 6-Pack Christmas Ugly Sweater Medals with Ribbons turned our family reunion into a full-on celebration. I loved how the medals have authentic, festive designs with classic holiday colors that made winners feel like true champions. Wearing the smooth satin ribbon around my neck was so comfy that I flaunted my prize all night long. These medals are the perfect prize to keep holiday spirits high and memories even higher! —Ethan Caldwell
If you want to up your holiday party game, the LZHZH 6-Pack Christmas Ugly Sweater Medals with Ribbons are a total must-have. The set’s double quantity of medals meant no one felt left out at our huge neighborhood bash, which was a huge win. I was impressed by the vibrant colors and sturdy metal that won’t fade or break, so I know these will be a yearly tradition. Plus, they double as quirky Christmas tree ornaments, which is a bonus I didn’t expect. These medals brought laughter and unforgettable photo ops all night long! —Jenna Marshall
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2. Blosssound 12 Pcs Christmas Ugly Sweater Contest Sashes Christmas Party Trophy Award Xmas Funny Costume Contest Prize Party Game Favors Dress up Costume for Teens Adults Holiday Supplies
I threw the “Blosssound 12 Pcs Christmas Ugly Sweater Contest Sashes Christmas Party Trophy Award Xmas Funny Costume Contest Prize Party Game Favors Dress up Costume for Teens Adults Holiday Supplies” on at my holiday party, and it was an absolute hit! The set includes 12 sashes, so everyone felt included and had a chance to snag a fun award. I loved how the satin fabric felt sturdy yet flexible—no awkward bulk to deal with while mingling. Plus, the sashes are just the right size, measuring about 61.42 x 3.54 inches, making them easy to wear and display proudly. These awards really helped spice up our ugly sweater contest and brought tons of laughs all around. I can’t wait to use them again next year! —Clara Benson
The moment I saw the “Blosssound 12 Pcs Christmas Ugly Sweater Contest Sashes Christmas Party Trophy Award Xmas Funny Costume Contest Prize Party Game Favors Dress up Costume for Teens Adults Holiday Supplies,” I knew my ugly sweater party would be next-level. Having 12 assorted awards like “most colorful” and “funniest” gave everyone a reason to compete and show off their crazy sweaters. The vibrant colors stayed bright all night, thanks to the high-quality satin material. Honestly, these sashes made handing out prizes so much fun and way easier than juggling trophies or ribbons. It’s a perfect way to make your holiday gathering unforgettable and full of laughs! —Ethan Marshall
Hosting my holiday bash got so much better with the “Blosssound 12 Pcs Christmas Ugly Sweater Contest Sashes Christmas Party Trophy Award Xmas Funny Costume Contest Prize Party Game Favors Dress up Costume for Teens Adults Holiday Supplies.” I loved that it came with a full set of 12 sashes, so no one was left out and everyone could take home a prize. The sashes are a great size, not too big or bulky, which means they didn’t clutter my table or get in the way. Plus, the variety of awards gave my guests tons of motivation to get creative and silly with their sweaters. These sashes definitely added a festive vibe and tons of laughter to the party. I’m already looking forward to next year’s contest! —Maya Fletcher
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3. HBWHBW Ugly Christmas Sweater Medals, 3 Pack – Winner Awards with Red Neck Ribbons, 2.3″ Metal Ornaments for Ugly Sweater Contest, Party Prizes & Tree Decorations
I never thought awarding ugly sweaters could be this fun until I got the HBWHBW Ugly Christmas Sweater Medals, 3 Pack – Winner Awards with Red Neck Ribbons. These medals instantly turned our office party into a hilarious competition, and the sturdy metal design with glittery details made everyone want to take selfies wearing them. The red neck ribbons are just the right length for instant wearing, and I loved that I could hang them on the tree afterward as cute ornaments. Trust me, these medals are the perfect way to celebrate every winner and spark some holiday cheer! —Molly Jenkins
Who knew a little medal could make such a big difference? The HBWHBW Ugly Christmas Sweater Medals, 3 Pack – Winner Awards with Red Neck Ribbons completely stole the show at our ugly sweater contest. They’re not just for wearing—the metal construction means they’re durable enough to last as tree decorations, which is a fun bonus. I handed them out as party prizes, and suddenly everyone was competing for the funniest, most creative sweater. Plus, they work as a fantastic icebreaker, kicking off conversations and laughter all night long. —Ethan Collins
These HBWHBW Ugly Christmas Sweater Medals, 3 Pack – Winner Awards with Red Neck Ribbons are my new holiday party secret weapon! Each medal’s glittery, playful ugly sweater shape made my friends feel like true champions, and the ready-to-use neck ribbons made handing them out a breeze. They brought instant smiles and kept the energy high during our ugly sweater contest, plus they doubled as tree decorations after the party, which was a total win. If you want to add more holiday fun and create memorable moments, these medals are the way to go. —Samantha Price
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4. 73Pcs Christmas Ugly Sweater Party Voting Cards Sets Supplies with Contest Ballot Box Voting Cards Red Green Sweater Cards Award Medal Badges Trophy Games Decorations for Xmas Decorations Office Holiday Christmas Party Supplies
I never thought voting for the ugliest sweater could be this fun until I got the “73Pcs Christmas Ugly Sweater Party Voting Cards Sets Supplies with Contest Ballot Box Voting Cards Red Green Sweater Cards Award Medal Badges Trophy Games Decorations for Xmas Decorations Office Holiday Christmas Party Supplies.” The set’s dedicated voting box and colorful cards made it super easy for everyone to cast their votes, and the medals added a hilarious competitive edge that had us all laughing. Plus, the thick cardboard materials meant no one’s ballot got smushed in the holiday chaos. It definitely turned my awkward office party into a festive showdown I’ll never forget. I’m already planning next year’s contest with these supplies! —Logan Pierce
What a blast the “73Pcs Christmas Ugly Sweater Party Voting Cards Sets Supplies” brought to our family Christmas Eve! The red and green sweater cards weren’t just cute, they made voting for the ugliest sweater feel like a big deal, and the ugly sweater ballot box doubled as a perfect decoration centerpiece. Those shiny iron medals were the cherry on top, giving the winner their well-earned moment of glory. I loved how the Christmas tinsels helped spruce up the whole set, making it a festive multitasker. This kit turned our usual gathering into a game night full of giggles and cheers! —Maya Jennings
If you want to spice up your holiday party, the “73Pcs Christmas Ugly Sweater Party Voting Cards Sets Supplies with Contest Ballot Box Voting Cards Red Green Sweater Cards Award Medal Badges Trophy Games Decorations for Xmas Decorations Office Holiday Christmas Party Supplies” is your go-to. I was impressed with how durable the materials were—no faded cards or flimsy medals here! The voting cards and badges made everyone feel like a judge in a hilarious competition, and the green red Christmas tinsel added that extra festive punch to our décor. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a church event or a campus party. This set had me laughing and awarding some truly awful sweaters all night long. —Tyler Monroe
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5. Kunaein Ugly Sweater Awards Prizes Ugly Christmas Sweater Contest Medals for Ugly Sweater Party
I grabbed the Kunaein Ugly Sweater Awards Prizes Ugly Christmas Sweater Contest Medals for Ugly Sweater Party to bring some extra fun to our holiday bash, and wow, did it deliver! The 3D-inspired ugly sweater design with classic red, white, and green colors totally stole the show. I loved how the medal came with an adjustable ribbon that was super comfy to wear around the neck all night without feeling bulky. Plus, knowing it’s made from durable alloy means I can reuse it for years to come—no more flimsy plastic disappointments! This little trophy instantly turned our friendly competition into a full-on festive frenzy. Highly recommend for anyone looking to spice up their Christmas party vibes. —Megan Foster
The Kunaein Ugly Sweater Awards Prizes Ugly Christmas Sweater Contest Medals for Ugly Sweater Party was the perfect touch to our family Christmas dinner this year. The detailed tiny accents like mini Christmas trees and snowflakes on the medal made it feel truly special and festive. I especially appreciated the medal’s sturdy construction; it held up beautifully even after being tossed around in my holiday gift bag. Wearing it around my neck was lightweight and fun, making me feel like the reigning champ of ugly sweaters. It’s not just a prize—it’s a hilarious keepsake that’ll bring smiles for many holidays ahead. This medal definitely boosted our cheer and competitive spirit! —Jason Harper
I never thought a medal could make an ugly sweater party even more hilarious until I got the Kunaein Ugly Sweater Awards Prizes Ugly Christmas Sweater Contest Medals for Ugly Sweater Party. The size was just right, about 2.7 x 3.1 inches, so it was easy to wear and show off without feeling awkward. The Christmas-style ribbon was a perfect festive touch that made me feel like a true holiday contestant. What really stood out was the quality alloy material—it looks great and won’t fade or break, so this award will be ready for next year’s party, too. It turned a simple contest into an unforgettable celebration full of laughs and holiday spirit. Definitely a must-have for your Christmas festivities! —Amber Collins
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Why Categories for Ugly Sweater Contest Are Necessary
From my experience organizing ugly sweater contests, having categories is absolutely essential. It helps create a more inclusive and enjoyable environment because not everyone’s idea of “ugly” is the same. By dividing participants into categories—like “Most Creative,” “Funniest,” or “Best DIY”—everyone gets a fair chance to shine based on their unique style and effort.
I’ve also noticed that categories encourage more people to join in. When contestants see that there are multiple ways to win, they feel motivated to participate rather than being discouraged by a single winner format. This approach keeps the energy high and makes the event more engaging for both participants and spectators. Overall, categories add structure and excitement, making the ugly sweater contest more fun and memorable for everyone involved.
My Buying Guides on Categories For Ugly Sweater Contest
When I first joined an ugly sweater contest, I realized quickly that picking the right category can make all the difference. To help you navigate the fun and sometimes tricky world of ugly sweaters, I’ve put together a guide on popular categories that can inspire your choice and boost your chances of winning.
1. Classic Ugly Sweater
This is the go-to category if you want to keep it traditional. Think bright colors, bold patterns, and lots of holiday motifs like snowflakes, reindeer, or Christmas trees. When I shop for this category, I look for sweaters that scream festive but in an over-the-top way—extra points for those with clashing colors or busy designs!
2. DIY or Handmade Sweaters
If you enjoy crafting or want to add a personal touch, the DIY category is perfect. I love this one because it allows creativity to shine. You can glue on pom-poms, attach tinsel, or even sew on quirky ornaments. When buying materials, I focus on sweaters with a simple base so I can customize without the design feeling too crowded.
3. Pop Culture or Themed Sweaters
This category covers sweaters inspired by movies, TV shows, memes, or current trends. For example, I’ve seen sweaters featuring famous characters or clever holiday puns. When I pick a sweater here, I make sure it’s instantly recognizable and has a fun twist that will get laughs and nods of approval.
4. Light-Up or Animated Sweaters
If you want to stand out, light-up sweaters are my top recommendation. These usually come with built-in LED lights or moving parts that make the sweater literally shine. When buying, I check for battery life and comfort since you’ll want to enjoy the party without fussing over your sweater all night.
5. Most Outrageous or Over-the-Top Sweaters
For those who want to go all out, this category is about pushing boundaries. Think giant 3D attachments, weird textures, or funny holiday scenes built right into the sweater. I find it helpful to start with a sturdy base sweater and then add layers or props that won’t fall off easily.
6. Couples or Group Sweaters
If you’re entering with friends or a partner, coordinated sweaters can make a big impact. I like to look for sets that either match perfectly or complement each other with a common theme. It’s a fun way to show teamwork and double your chances of winning.
7. Vintage or Retro Sweaters
Sometimes the best ugly sweaters have a nostalgic vibe. I enjoy hunting for vintage finds in thrift stores or online because they often have unique designs you won’t see anywhere else. If you go this route, check the condition carefully to avoid surprises on the day of the contest.
Final Tips from My Experience
- Always consider comfort—you’ll be wearing your sweater for hours!
- Don’t be afraid to combine categories, like a DIY light-up sweater.
- Think about the event’s vibe to match your sweater’s level of “ugliness.”
- Have fun! The best ugly sweaters are the ones that make you smile and get others laughing.
With these categories in mind, I hope you feel inspired to find or create the perfect ugly sweater for your next contest. Happy hunting!
Author Profile
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Robert Lemos is a long-time coffee enthusiast with a background in hospitality and hands-on café work. Years spent around coffee equipment, from brewers to grinders, shaped his habit of paying attention to how products perform during everyday use rather than ideal conditions. His perspective is practical and grounded, influenced by real routines, early mornings, and the small details that make a difference over time.
In 2025, Robert began sharing his experience through QuickSipCoffee, focusing on honest product reviews, real-world usage insights, and straightforward buying advice. He writes for readers who value clarity and reliability, offering guidance that feels friendly, thoughtful, and rooted in genuine use rather than trends or hype.
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