Ugly Sweater Christmas Party

There are so many fun and festive theme parties to choose from when planning your holiday bash, that picking the perfect one can be overwhelming. Most themes require intense set up and planning for the host, and can even be stressful for the guests.  Between buying the perfect outfit and purchasing a great gift for the host, holiday parties can be stressful for all of those in attendance. This year, try going for a more casual theme, without losing any holiday cheer or fun festivities, by hosting an ugly sweater Christmas Party.

Get your guests in the ugly sweater mood by sending them some fun and personal photo invitations. Give them a sneak peek of what’s to come by sending them a photo of your whole family, even your family pet, wearing their favorite ugly sweaters covered in light-up Santas and stitched up snowmen. Your guests will get a kick out of the photos, and may also get some inspiration for picking their ugly sweater. These invitations can even double as your yearly holiday cards for the guests who receive one.

Tons of ugly sweaters can be picked up at your local thrift store or discount retailer for cheap, so you can spend less money on your outfits, and more money on decorations and drinks for the party. Since the theme is casual, you can skip all the fancy decorations, and go with more fun and casual décor choices. Consider ordering some custom Christmas stockings for your guests to add some more cheer to the atmosphere.  These great décor pieces double as a gift bag, too, and you can send your guests off with an ugly sweater inspired gift!

If your group of friends happens to be a crafty bunch, they may enjoy a DIY Ugly Sweater station. You can either ask your guests to bring an old sweater that they wouldn’t mind parting with or run out to your local dollar store or craft shop and purchase a pack of inexpensive sweaters or turtlenecks. Purchase some fabric paint and glue, as well as any fun embellishments like googly eyes, fake pearls, and funky buttons.  The last thing you will need is fun felt shapes and figures. For a thriftier option, you may choose to buy a few rolls of colored felt and cut them into your own festive shapes and figures using stencils. Or, you can find pre-cut shapes at your local craft store. Look for holiday themed shapes like reindeer, snowflakes, or mistletoe for a complete DIY Ugly Sweater Station.

Organize some fun themed games, as well. Plan an “ugly sweater swap”, where guests can trade their ugly sweaters for photo ops and laughs.  Make sure your party goes off with a bang! Finish the night off by hosting an “ugliest ugly sweater” competition. Your friends will love showing off their fashion don’ts, and you’ll have a ton of memories and laughs to cherish for years to come. After all, everyone secretly wants to wear the crown for ugliest ugly sweater!