Ugly Christmas sweater day: Why is it celebrated and when did it start?
Ugly Christmas sweaters have become such a staple during the holiday season that they have been given their own special day. Why did the celebration start?
For decades, people have been receiving ugly sweaters from well-meaning gift givers, and are sometimes forced to wear them to avoid offending the person who may have even knitted it for them.
More recently though, many have shown their holiday spirit by sporting their favorite ugly Christmas sweater: the uglier, the better.
Ugly Christmas Sweater Day is celebrated as a fun and lighthearted holiday tradition where people wear intentionally tacky, gaudy, or humorous Christmas sweaters. The day is marked by individuals and groups donning festive sweaters adorned with kitschy holiday-themed designs, bright clashing colors, and sometimes even 3D decorations.
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What is the origin of Ugly Christmas Sweater Day?
Although ugly Christmas sweaters have been around for as long as anyone can remember, their mass production began in the 80s, when fashion trends were characterized by bold patterns and bright colors.
Ugly Christmas sweaters gained visibility through popular culture, with television shows and movies featuring characters wearing over-the-top holiday sweaters. This exposure contributed to the trend of intentionally searching for and wearing such clothing.
In the 21st century, two men from Vancouver are credited with holding the first official ugly sweater party to raise funds for the cancer treatment of their friend. Since then, tacky sweater gatherings have been held, mostly for fun, but sometimes to raise money for charity. Guests are encouraged to wear the most outrageous holiday sweaters they can find.
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When is Ugly Christmas Sweater Day celebrated?
Ugly Christmas Sweater Day has been celebrated since 2011, and takes place on the third Friday of December. This year, that day is Friday, Dec. 15. Wearing hideous creations has now become a humorous tradition that gives holiday lovers worldwide a chance to wear their most hideous Christmas sweaters.