‘Tis the season for ugly Christmas sweater parties and Goodwill invites community members to look for that perfect blend of holiday sparkle and festive fun at their nearest Goodwill store. They are also invited to share their humorous holiday garb on December 21st – which is National Ugly Sweater Day – for a discount and chance to win a gift card to Edgar’s Restaurant and Goodwill.

The “ugly Christmas sweater” craze has been on the upswing for many years. Numerous retailers now sell selections of obnoxious holiday garb, from vests, dresses and pajamas to hats and T-shirts, and even elaborate items decorated with lights, sound effects, and dangling ornaments. However, rather than spend retail prices, many people opt to purchase used clothing from thrift stores, such as Goodwill, and decorate the pieces themselves.

From tinsel and toy soldiers to Santa and sleigh bells, Goodwill offers a wide selection of color and charisma in Christmas-themed attire. Shoppers will also find festive jewelry, purses, ties, scarves, and other yuletide accessories to complete any holiday outfit.

While mass-produced "ugly sweaters" can run consumers $50 or more, Goodwill offers options that will make a shopper’s Christmas sweater or holiday outfit one-of-a-kind – without putting a dent in their wallet.

“More and more people are attending ‘ugly Christmas sweater parties’ or wearing these items to go out during the holiday season. At Goodwill, we are thrilled to see the craze continue since so many people shop second-hand for sweaters to decorate,” says DeWayne B. Cuffie, vice president of retail operations. "Plus, the money shoppers spend here in the store stays in our community and helps fund crucial programs and services. We also encourage people to declutter after the holidays by bringing unwanted items to Goodwill, where the sale of donated goods creates job opportunities right here at home.”

Goodwill wants to celebrate your tacky finds on National Ugly Christmas Sweater Day.  Visit any Goodwill retail location on December 21st wearing your ugly sweater and receive a 20% discount for your clothing purchase.

In addition, take your Goodwill receipt to Edgar’s Restaurants on Friday, December 21st, and receive a free appetizer.

Community members are invited to take a selfie wearing their Goodwill-inspired ugly Christmas sweaters and post the photo to Facebook – with the hashtag #Goodwillismyjam and tagging @GoodwillWorks – by Dec. 25th for a chance to win a $25 gift card to Edgar’s Bistro and $25 gift card to a Goodwill Retail Store.