The chill is in the air, making it the perfect time to decorate for the festive season, roast some chestnuts by the fire, and pull out that dreadful sweater because it’s National Ugly Christmas Sweater Day!

From garish neon trees to reindeer buttons that light up, the third Friday of December is the day to flaunt that garish sweater and celebrate this quirky holiday. In 2024, it lands on December 20th.

Whether you’re wearing it to a work party or a festive gathering with loved ones, a tacky sweater is always a hit.

What Exactly is an Ugly Christmas Sweater?

An “ugly Christmas sweater” refers to what you might imagine: a delightfully distasteful or outright ugly sweater made to celebrate the holiday season.

Sometimes, the sweaters are so hideous that they become endearing, while other times, they’re just plain ghastly. But that’s the point—they’re meant to be over-the-top!

You can find sweaters adorned with flashing lights, colorful bows, jingle bells, and eye-catching hues, or featuring your favorite animated character. There are no wrong choices when it comes to wearing an ugly Christmas sweater.

How Did This Holiday Begin?

This holiday originated in 2011, according to the National Day Calendar, with the aim of “lifting the holiday spirits and showcasing wonderfully ugly sweaters.”

Now, 13 years later, it is enjoyed by people all over the world.

Each year, fans of ugly sweaters compete to outdo each other with more outrageous designs.

Where to Find an Ugly Christmas Sweater

For example, one of Target’s offerings features Snoopy in a fashionable puffer jacket, while another is a bright red sweater covered in Christmas trees in green and white.

While the Snoopy design is charming, it pales compared to an eye-catching sweater from Box Lunch depicting Lightning McQueen from Disney Pixar’s Cars. Its sleeves and body showcase his catchphrase, “ka chow,” surrounded by eye-catching lightning bolts and snowflakes.

Depending on personal taste, some may find that design to be outrageously terrible.

Create Your Own Ugly Sweater

Craft stores like Michaels often have everything you need to create the most outrageous holiday sweater imaginable.

“Making your own ugly Christmas sweater gives you the chance to craft something truly unique, transforming a fun tradition into a personal artistic expression of the holiday spirit,” said Roma Stiff, a senior project designer at Michaels.

Michaels also offers a DIY Ugly Sweater Accessory Pin kit for those who want a last-minute option and even has an online tutorial on YouTube.

No matter your plans this year, whether it’s a movie marathon or a Secret Santa exchange, your sweater can help spread joy and guarantee smiles all around.