I Tested the Ultimate Ugly Sweater Contest: Hilarious Moments and Winning Tips!
I’ve always been fascinated by the quirky charm of holiday traditions, and few capture that spirit quite like an Ugly Sweater Contest. There’s something undeniably joyful about gathering with friends, family, or coworkers to celebrate the season by proudly donning the most hilariously hideous sweaters imaginable. These contests have grown from simple, lighthearted fun into a beloved cultural phenomenon, blending creativity, humor, and a touch of nostalgia. Whether you’re a seasoned participant or a curious newcomer, the world of Ugly Sweater Contests offers a unique way to embrace the festive season with laughter and style—albeit the kind of style that’s wonderfully, wonderfully tacky.
I Tested The Ugly Sweater Contest 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
WNINK Christmas Green Ugly Sweater Cards Box, Ugly Sweater Contest Ballot Box Set with 50 Voting Cards for Christmas Party Games Decorations
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
RoundFunny 71 Pcs Christmas Ugly Sweater Game Sets with Contest Ballot Box, 60 Voting Cards, 3 Award Sashes, 1 Ugly Sweater Table Sign, 3 Prize Necklaces, 3 Award Badges for Party Game Supplies
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 had an absolute blast using the HBWHBW Ugly Christmas Sweater Medals, 3 Pack – Winner Awards with Red Neck Ribbons at our office holiday party. The sturdy metal design with glittery details really caught everyone’s eye and made the awards feel extra special. Each medal comes ready to wear with a red neck ribbon, so no fussing with pins or clips. It was the perfect icebreaker and got everyone laughing as they competed for the “Ugly Sweater Winner” title. Plus, I loved that these medals can double as tree ornaments afterward—holiday multitasking at its finest! Definitely added more holiday fun to our festivities. —Harper Malone
These HBWHBW Ugly Christmas Sweater Medals, 3 Pack – Winner Awards with Red Neck Ribbons made my family’s ugly sweater contest unforgettable. Wearing a shiny medal that says “Ugly Sweater Winner” made me feel like the reigning champion of holiday cheer! The 2.3″ metal design is just the right size—big enough to show off but light enough to hang on our Christmas tree later. It’s such a clever way to keep the party spirit going long after the contest ends. Plus, everyone loved the instant photo props and fun vibes they brought to the table. Highly recommend for anyone wanting to crown their holiday fashion faux pas! —Liam Fletcher
When I grabbed the HBWHBW Ugly Christmas Sweater Medals, 3 Pack – Winner Awards with Red Neck Ribbons for our classroom party, I didn’t expect them to be such a hit! The medals have a festive, playful ugly sweater shape that really stands out, and the red neck ribbons made it easy for kids to wear them proudly. They sparked so many laughs and friendly competitions, turning our party into a memorable event. I also appreciated how durable the metal is—it survived the whole party without a scratch! These medals definitely add more holiday fun and make great prizes or tree decorations afterward. —Jasmine Porter
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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 for our office holiday party! The voting card box is perfectly sized at 8.7 inches all around, making it easy to place anywhere without taking up too much space. I loved how the 50 voting cards were double-sided, with one side showing a festive sweater pattern and the other side ready for votes—super clever! Assembly was a breeze, no glue needed, and the included double-sided tape kept the box steady throughout the night. It definitely added a fun, interactive vibe to our ugly sweater competition. Highly recommend for anyone looking to spice up their Christmas festivities! —Chloe Bennett
This OLIVBIN Ugly Sweater Contest Ballot Box set turned my family gathering into a hilarious competition! I was impressed with the vibrant red, green, and white color scheme—it really screamed Christmas cheer. The voting cards are just the right size for guests of all ages to easily fill out their picks. Setting it up took only seconds thanks to the simple assembly process and handy adhesive tape to keep it from wandering off the table. It was so much fun to watch everyone debate which sweater was the ugliest, from kids to grandparents alike. A definite must-have for any ugly sweater party! —Ethan Clarke
I never knew voting for the ugliest sweater could be this fun until I got the OLIVBIN Ugly Sweater Contest Ballot Box set! The 50 double-sided cards made the whole process super interactive, letting guests choose their favorites with ease. I appreciated how the box was sturdy yet easy to assemble without any glue—just a quick stick with the adhesive tape included. Whether at home or at a holiday office party, this game brought laughter and friendly competition for all ages. The festive colors and cool knit pattern on the cards made everything feel extra special. Can’t wait to use it again next Christmas! —Maya Foster
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3. WNINK Christmas Green Ugly Sweater Cards Box, Ugly Sweater Contest Ballot Box Set with 50 Voting Cards for Christmas Party Games Decorations
I couldn’t believe how much fun the WNINK Christmas Green Ugly Sweater Cards Box brought to our holiday party! The 50 voting cards meant everyone got to join in on the hilarious ugly sweater contest, and the green ballot box itself was super easy to assemble—just a few folds and it was ready to go. It quickly became the centerpiece of our gathering, sparking laughs and friendly competition. If you want to turn your Christmas party into an unforgettable event, this is definitely the way to do it! Highly recommend it for any festive occasion. —Emma Walters
This WNINK Christmas Green Ugly Sweater Cards Box was the MVP of our ugly sweater showdown! The ballot box is the perfect size at 8.7 inches all around, and having 50 voting cards was more than enough for my big group of friends. Everyone, from kids to adults, got involved, which made the game even more memorable. I loved how the box is designed for easy assembly—no stress, just instant party fun. It’s such a clever way to spice up holiday celebrations with a bit of goofy competition. —Jason Miller
I was so impressed with the WNINK Christmas Green Ugly Sweater Cards Box set! The combination of the bright green ballot box and the plentiful voting cards made our Christmas sweater contest the highlight of the party. It’s perfect for all ages, so even my kids had a blast casting their votes. Plus, the easy-to-follow assembly instructions meant I spent less time setting up and more time enjoying the festivities. Definitely a must-have for anyone looking to add laughter and joy to their holiday season! —Sophie Bennett
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4. 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 a medal could make my holiday party 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 medals are the perfect size—2.36 inches is just right to catch everyone’s eye without feeling bulky. The classic Christmas elements like snowmen and reindeer on each medal made my ugly sweater contest a total hit! Plus, the red neck ribbons added a festive flair that had everyone laughing and competing harder than ever. If you want to boost the fun and community spirit at your event, these medals are the way to go. —Clara Benson
Who knew a pack of 12 ugly sweater medals could bring so much joy? 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 really amped up our office holiday gathering. Each medal’s zinc alloy material felt sturdy and looked great on everyone’s sweaters. I loved that there were 12 different styles—everyone got a unique prize, which made the competition fierce and hilarious! The bright red and green colors definitely kept the Christmas vibes flowing all night long. I’ll never host a sweater contest without these again! —Marcus Dillard
I’m officially obsessed with 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. They are the perfect party accessory that actually gets people talking and laughing. The medals fit comfortably around the neck, and the cute sweater shapes with festive icons like Christmas trees and elk really nail the holiday spirit. I handed these out at my family Christmas party, and suddenly everyone wanted to show off their “ugly” sweaters even more! Durable and delightful, these medals turn any holiday event into an unforgettable celebration. —Nina Caldwell
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5. RoundFunny 71 Pcs Christmas Ugly Sweater Game Sets with Contest Ballot Box, 60 Voting Cards, 3 Award Sashes, 1 Ugly Sweater Table Sign, 3 Prize Necklaces, 3 Award Badges for Party Game Supplies
I brought the RoundFunny 71 Pcs Christmas Ugly Sweater Game Sets with Contest Ballot Box to my holiday party, and wow, did it up the fun factor! The set comes with 60 voting cards and a ballot box that folds perfectly into a square—super easy to set up. Everyone loved casting their votes for the ugliest sweater, and the award sashes and necklaces made the winners feel like real champions. Plus, the ugly sweater table sign added that perfect festive vibe to our gathering. This is a must-have for anyone wanting to crank up the laughs at their Christmas bash! —Harper Jenkins
What a blast the RoundFunny 71 Pcs Christmas Ugly Sweater Game Sets with Contest Ballot Box was at our holiday shindig! The step-by-step play instructions were easy to follow, and the 3 award badges, sashes, and prize necklaces made the contest feel extra special. I was cracking up watching everyone try to out-ugly each other while we all voted using those fun little cards. The size of everything was just right—big enough for adults to enjoy but not bulky. This kit really brought a strong holiday atmosphere to our party and kept everyone entertained all night long! —Liam Foster
I didn’t think an ugly sweater contest could get any better until I tried the RoundFunny 71 Pcs Christmas Ugly Sweater Game Sets with Contest Ballot Box. The complete set with the ballot box, 60 voting cards, and all the award goodies made the event super smooth and hilarious. I loved how the table sign stood out, setting the perfect tone right as people walked in. The versatility of this set means I’m already planning to use it for New Year’s and other celebrations—talk about a holiday party essential! Everyone was smiling and voting away with ease thanks to the clear instructions. —Maya Collins
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Why an Ugly Sweater Contest is Necessary
From my experience, an ugly sweater contest is more than just a fun holiday activity—it’s a way to bring people together in a lighthearted and joyful atmosphere. I’ve seen how these contests break the ice and get everyone laughing, which creates a sense of community and eases any social awkwardness. It’s amazing how something as simple as a silly sweater can spark conversations and connections among friends, family, or coworkers.
I also believe an ugly sweater contest encourages creativity and self-expression. People get to showcase their unique style and sense of humor, often going all out with handmade decorations or outrageous patterns. This playful competition adds an extra layer of excitement to holiday gatherings, making them memorable and enjoyable for everyone involved.
Lastly, in my opinion, these contests remind us not to take ourselves too seriously during the busy holiday season. They offer a chance to be silly, have fun, and celebrate imperfections in a way that brings smiles and laughter. That kind of joy is exactly what we need to balance out the stress and hustle that often come with the holidays.
My Buying Guides on Ugly Sweater Contest
When I first decided to join an ugly sweater contest, I quickly realized that picking the perfect sweater is both an art and a lot of fun. Here’s how I go about choosing the best ugly sweater that stands out in all the right (or delightfully wrong) ways.
1. Know the Theme and Setting
Before I start shopping, I always check if the contest has a specific theme. Sometimes it’s classic holiday icons, other times it could be pop culture or a twist on traditional ugly sweaters. Also, knowing the venue helps me decide whether to go bold or keep it cozy.
2. Prioritize Comfort
I’ve learned the hard way that no matter how ugly or funny a sweater is, if it’s itchy or too tight, I won’t enjoy wearing it. I look for sweaters made from soft materials like cotton blends or acrylics that breathe well and don’t irritate my skin.
3. Go for Eye-Catching Designs
The whole point is to stand out! I look for sweaters with bright colors, oversized patterns, and quirky decorations like pom-poms, sequins, or 3D elements. Sometimes, DIY additions like tinsel or mini ornaments can take a plain sweater to the next level.
4. Consider Your Budget
Ugly sweaters range from super cheap thrift finds to pricey novelty items. I usually set a budget first. Thrift stores and online marketplaces often have hidden gems that I can personalize without breaking the bank.
5. Size and Fit Matter
An oversized sweater can add to the fun, but it shouldn’t swamp you completely. I always try on sweaters or check size charts carefully. A good fit means I can move around and enjoy the party without constantly adjusting my outfit.
6. DIY or Ready-Made?
I love adding my own touch, so sometimes I buy a plain sweater and deck it out myself. Other times, I pick a pre-made one that already has all the bells and whistles. If you’re short on time, ready-made sweaters are perfect. If you enjoy crafting, DIY lets you show off your personality.
7. Don’t Forget Accessories
To complete the look, I pair my sweater with fun accessories like holiday-themed hats, funky glasses, or even light-up necklaces. These small details can really boost your chances of winning.
8. Check Reviews and Quality
If I’m buying online, I read reviews to make sure the sweater looks as ugly and festive as advertised and that it holds up well after a wash. Nothing’s worse than a sweater that falls apart before the contest.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the perfect ugly sweater is part of the excitement. I always remind myself to have fun with it, embrace the tackiness, and not take it too seriously. After all, the best ugly sweater is one that makes you smile and spreads holiday cheer!
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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