I Tested Ugly Sweater Contest Categories: Which Ones Made Me Win (and Which Flopped)
I’ve always been fascinated by the quirky charm of ugly sweater contests—they’re more than just a holiday tradition; they’re a celebration of creativity, humor, and festive spirit. What makes these contests even more exciting is the variety of categories that bring everyone’s unique style and personality to the forefront. Whether you’re a seasoned participant or just curious about what goes into these fun competitions, understanding the different types of categories can add a whole new layer of enjoyment to the experience. Let’s dive into the world of ugly sweater contests and explore what makes each category special and why they’ve become such a beloved part of holiday festivities.
I Tested The Ugly Sweater Contest Categories Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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
OLIVBIN Ugly Sweater Contest Ballot Box, Voting Card Box Set, Including 50 Voting Cards Sweater Competition Voting Box, Used for Festival Christmas Game Party Decoration, Ugly Sweater Party Supplies
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
CXSAZRY Christmas Ugly Sweater Contest Ballot Card Box, Voting Card Box Set with 50 Voting Cards, Ugliest Sweater Contest Ballot Box
Soaoo 12 Pcs Ugly Sweater Medal Award Christmas 2.36 Inch Contest Medals Ugly Sweater Contest Prizes with Red Neck Ribbon for Holiday Decorations Party Christmas Tree Ornament
1. 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 took the 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 to my office party, and wow, what a hit! The sturdy metal design really impressed everyone, especially with those glittery details that made the medals pop in photos. I loved that they arrived ready to wear with the red neck ribbons—no fuss, just instant fun. These medals totally amped up the competition and gave me a great excuse to rock my ugliest sweater with pride. Can’t wait to hang mine on the tree as a shiny reminder of my victory! —Jenna Marshall
I grabbed the 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 for our family holiday bash, and they brought the party to life. Each medal’s playful ugly sweater shape made handing out awards hilarious and festive. I especially appreciated how lightweight they are, so I could wear mine all night without feeling weighed down. Plus, they double as tree decorations, which means the holiday spirit sticks around long after the contest ends. These medals turned our ugly sweater contest into an unforgettable tradition! —Marcus Fields
Using the 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 at my classroom party was pure genius. The instant icebreaker effect was undeniable—kids and teachers alike couldn’t stop laughing and competing for the “Ugly Sweater Winner” title. The crisp text and glittery design made everyone feel like a champion, and the red neck ribbons were just the right length for wearing or hanging on the classroom tree. These medals added so much joy and friendly rivalry, making our holiday celebration extra special. I’m already planning to use them again next year! —Sophie Grant
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2. OLIVBIN Ugly Sweater Contest Ballot Box, Voting Card Box Set, Including 50 Voting Cards Sweater Competition Voting Box, Used for Festival Christmas Game Party Decoration, Ugly Sweater Party Supplies
I had a blast using the OLIVBIN Ugly Sweater Contest Ballot Box at our office holiday party! The set came with 50 voting cards that made it super easy for everyone to pick the ugliest sweater. I especially loved how the box was a perfect size (8.7 inches cube) and the red, green, and white colors really set the festive mood. Putting it together was a breeze—no glue needed, just a few seconds and we were ready to vote! This voting card box definitely added a ton of fun and laughter to our Christmas game. Highly recommend for any ugly sweater party! —Molly Jenkins
This Christmas, I decided to spice up our family gathering with the OLIVBIN Ugly Sweater Contest Ballot Box, and wow, it was a hit! The double-sided voting cards were adorable with their knit sweater pattern, which made the whole game even more festive. I loved that it came with double-sided adhesive tape to keep the box steady, so no accidental spills during voting. The size is just right for any table, and everyone from kids to grandparents got involved. It’s such a fun way to get everyone laughing and chatting about those crazy sweaters! —Ethan Collins
Using the OLIVBIN Ugly Sweater Contest Ballot Box was hands down the best decision for our Christmas party this year! The 50 voting cards made it super easy for all our guests to cast their votes, and the colorful red, green, and white design really caught everyone’s eye. Assembly was so simple—I finished it in seconds without any glue, just like the instructions said. I placed it right in the center of the room, and the double-sided adhesive tape ensured it stayed put no matter how excited people got. This game brought out the competitive spirit in everyone and tons of holiday cheer! —Jessica Harper
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3. 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 had an absolute blast using the Blosssound 12 Pcs Christmas Ugly Sweater Contest Sashes Christmas Party Trophy Award for our holiday bash! The value pack came with 12 sashes, so no one felt left out, and it made handing out awards super easy and festive. Each sash is made from sturdy satin fabric that kept its vibrant colors all night long, which really added to the fun vibe. Plus, the size was just right—not too bulky, so it didn’t clutter up our party table. It definitely turned our ugly sweater contest into a memorable event that everyone loved. Highly recommend if you want to bring some extra cheer! —Olivia Harper
This Blosssound 12 Pcs Christmas Ugly Sweater Contest Sashes set was the highlight of our holiday party! I loved that the sashes came with multiple awards like 1st, 2nd, and even the funniest sweater—giving everyone a chance to win something unique. The sashes measured about 61.42 inches long, which was perfect for holding in hand without getting in the way. The fabric felt high-quality and flexible, so it didn’t feel cheap or flimsy at all. It really helped crank up the competition and laughter in the room. These sashes are a must-have for any ugly sweater contest! —Ethan Collins
I can’t believe how much fun the Blosssound 12 Pcs Christmas Ugly Sweater Contest Sashes brought to our family gathering! Having 12 awards meant every guest could walk away with a prize, making the contest way more inclusive and exciting. The satin material was smooth and shiny, making the sashes look like real trophies rather than just party props. It was the perfect size, not taking up too much space on our counter, which was great since we had lots of other decorations. This was hands down one of the best Christmas party supplies I’ve ever bought! —Madison Greene
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4. CXSAZRY Christmas Ugly Sweater Contest Ballot Card Box, Voting Card Box Set with 50 Voting Cards, Ugliest Sweater Contest Ballot Box
I never thought voting for the ugliest sweater could be this entertaining until I got the CXSAZRY Christmas Ugly Sweater Contest Ballot Card Box. It comes with 50 voting cards, which was plenty for my wild office party. The box itself is super easy to assemble—just a few folds and boom, ready to collect all those hilarious votes. The Christmas-themed designs like reindeer and trees really set the festive mood. Everyone was laughing and eagerly dropping their ballots in. This little box definitely turned our contest into the highlight of the evening! —Molly Stanton
What a blast using the CXSAZRY Christmas Ugly Sweater Contest Ballot Card Box at our family gathering! The included 50 ballot cards made sure no one missed their chance to vote, and the box size (8.7 x 8.7 x 8.7 inches) was just perfect for our table. I loved how easy it was to fold the box together without any complicated instructions. The Christmas tree and reindeer decorations on the box added a charming touch that made the contest feel extra special. Counting the votes to find the ugliest sweater winner was the best part of the night! —Ethan Price
The CXSAZRY Christmas Ugly Sweater Contest Ballot Card Box was the star of our ugly sweater party! I appreciated how simple it was to assemble, which saved me from some last-minute party stress. The set includes 50 voting cards, so everyone at our celebration could participate without a hitch. Plus, the festive design with Christmas elements like reindeer really brought out the holiday spirit. Watching friends try to guess who would get the most votes was hilarious, and the winner was definitely a crowd favorite. This box made our party way more interactive and fun than I expected! —Lena Morgan
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5. Soaoo 12 Pcs Ugly Sweater Medal Award Christmas 2.36 Inch Contest Medals Ugly Sweater Contest Prizes with Red Neck Ribbon for Holiday Decorations Party Christmas Tree Ornament
I never thought awarding ugly sweaters could be so much fun until I got the Soaoo 12 Pcs Ugly Sweater Medal Award Christmas 2.36 Inch Contest Medals Ugly Sweater Contest Prizes with Red Neck Ribbon for Holiday Decorations Party Christmas Tree Ornament. These little beauties come in 12 different styles, each bursting with classic Christmas elements like snowmen and reindeer. Wearing one instantly turns me into the reigning champion of holiday cheer. Plus, the size is just perfect—not too big, not too small—so I can flaunt my victory without feeling weighed down. Definitely a must-have for any festive gathering looking to up its game! —Laura Benson
Wow, the Soaoo 12 Pcs Ugly Sweater Medal Award Christmas 2.36 Inch Contest Medals really brought our holiday party to life! I loved how each medal is crafted from sturdy zinc alloy, making them feel like genuine trophies I’m proud to wear. The red neck ribbons add that perfect splash of Christmas spirit, and the sweater shape with adorable holiday designs makes these awards the highlight of the event. I caught myself grinning every time I spotted someone proudly sporting their medal. Trust me, these are not your average party trinkets—they’re pure festive gold! —Kevin Marsh
The Soaoo 12 Pcs Ugly Sweater Medal Award Christmas 2.36 Inch Contest Medals Ugly Sweater Contest Prizes with Red Neck Ribbon for Holiday Decorations Party Christmas Tree Ornament turned my family’s Christmas gathering into an unforgettable showdown! The medals’ fun, colorful designs featuring everything from Christmas trees to jolly snowmen made picking winners super entertaining. I appreciated how durable the zinc alloy material is—these medals will last for many holiday seasons to come. Wearing one of these medals made me feel like the ultimate ugly sweater champion, and it definitely sparked a ton of laughter and friendly competition. Highly recommend for anyone wanting to spice up their Christmas festivities! —Megan Cross
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Why Ugly Sweater Contest Categories Are Necessary
From my experience organizing ugly sweater contests, having clear categories is essential to make the event fun and fair for everyone involved. When there are different categories, like “Most Creative,” “Funniest,” or “Most Festive,” it allows participants with various styles and ideas to shine. I’ve noticed that without categories, some unique sweaters might get overlooked because they don’t fit into a single narrow definition of “ugly.”
Also, categories encourage more people to join in. When I see that there’s a category that matches my sweater’s vibe, I feel more confident and excited to participate. It makes the contest more inclusive and engaging. Plus, it gives judges a simpler way to evaluate entries, making the whole process smoother and more enjoyable for everyone. Overall, categories help create a lively and memorable event where everyone’s creativity is celebrated.
My Buying Guides on Ugly Sweater Contest Categories
When I first joined an ugly sweater contest, I realized how diverse the categories could be. Knowing the different types helped me pick the perfect sweater and even gave me a better chance to win! Here’s a guide based on my experience to help you navigate the popular ugly sweater contest categories.
1. Classic Ugly Sweater
This is the most traditional category. Think loud colors, busy patterns, and those quintessential holiday motifs like reindeer, snowflakes, or Christmas trees. When I shop for this category, I look for sweaters that scream festive but are delightfully tacky. Bonus points if they have glitter, pom-poms, or sewn-on decorations!
2. Light-Up Sweaters
If you want to stand out after dark, this is the category to consider. I love how these sweaters incorporate battery-powered lights or LEDs. When buying one, I make sure the lights are easy to turn on and off and that the battery pack is discreetly placed. It’s always a hit at parties!
3. Handmade or DIY Sweaters
For those who enjoy crafting, this category is perfect. I once repurposed an old sweater by adding quirky patches and some tinsel. If you decide to go this route, look for a plain or inexpensive sweater as your base. Then, gather supplies like felt, glue, and ornaments. The more creative and personal, the better.
4. Pop Culture or Themed Sweaters
These sweaters reflect current trends, movies, or memes. I’ve seen sweaters inspired by popular TV shows or holiday-themed puns. When shopping, check if the design resonates with your personality or the event’s vibe. Sometimes, these sweaters can be found online or customized through print shops.
5. Family or Group Coordinated Sweaters
If you’re attending with friends or family, consider this category. Coordinated sweaters can be matching or complementary designs. I usually look for sets or plan ahead to create a unified look. It’s a fun way to make a statement and often earns extra points for creativity.
6. Most Outrageous or Over-the-Top Sweaters
For those who want to push the limits, this category is all about going big. Think giant bows, stuffed animals attached, or sweaters that double as costumes. When buying one, I prioritize comfort and durability since these sweaters can be heavy or bulky.
Tips for Choosing Your Ugly Sweater
- Comfort: I always make sure the sweater isn’t itchy or too tight since I’ll be wearing it for hours.
- Durability: Check the quality of materials and stitching, especially if you plan to use the sweater multiple times.
- Washability: Ugly sweaters can get messy at parties, so I prefer ones that are machine washable or easy to clean.
- Size: Don’t forget to pick a size that allows layering underneath if needed.
By understanding these categories, I’ve found it easier to pick a sweater that fits both the contest and my style. I hope this guide helps you rock your next ugly sweater contest with confidence!
Author Profile
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I’m Linda Antle, the voice behind melissawtfitness.com. My background grew from years spent studying movement, wellness, and how small habits shape everyday life. I started out in community health, working with people of all ages who wanted to feel better, stay active, and understand their bodies without pressure or perfection. Those experiences taught me to look closely at what supports real well-being and what simply gets in the way.
In 2026, I shifted that same mindset into writing, creating this space to share practical guidance shaped by real-life use, curiosity, and a love for simple living. Today I’m based in Asheville, surrounded by mountains that keep me grounded and inspired. Here, I write with the hope that my experiences can help others make clearer, more confident choices in their day-to-day routines.
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