We all have them: hideous, knitted-things with reindeer and snowmen, Santa Claus and snowflakes - even bells and ribbon if you're really lucky.
Typically, the only time to put them on is around the holidays when that oh-so-thoughtful aunt with a knitting habit will be visiting and wants you to be in full regalia. It's become so ingrained in the holidays that "Ugly Sweater Parties" have started cropping up as both an excuse to show off and swap horror stories. Then after the new year, we've had our fun, appeased our relatives and the most garish items in our wardrobe are allowed to go back to where they belong: the bottoms of chests, the corners of attics, and the farthest reaches of the deepest closets in the house. Chances are, they aren't going to be the 'go-to' accessory when you're planning a night out at the bar.
This Nov. 30th, they should be. Even if you're not a night-owl, or into the bar scene, you should get your ugly Christmas sweater out of storage a bit early and make your way to The Cell Block, 154 W. Third St. Don't have an ugly Christmas sweater? Borrow one. Some folks are blessed with an abundance and would be more than willing to let you take any number off their hands. (Just make sure they also think it's an ugly Christmas sweater and understand why you're borrowing it, lest you want to make for some very awkward holiday parties). Department and thrift stores also often have racks and racks of discounted holiday apparel that you wouldn't wish on your worst enemy's dog.
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The Keystone Ska Exchange will perform at the Cancer Crushing Pants Relay For Life team’s “Ugly Christmas Sweater Party Fundraiser,” which will be held Nov. 30 at The Cell Block, 154 W. Third St. Doors open at 9 p.m.
So why all the fuss? What better reason to don your best 'Christmas-Cosby' than to benefit the Cancer Crushing Pants Relay For Life team and the American Cancer Society. Beginning at 9 p.m., Julie Reppert (of the aforementioned Cancer-Crushing Pants Relay For Life team) is undoubtedly hoping that the Cell Block will look more like an office party at a midwestern credit union than a night club. Reppert and her CCPs have been a part of the Relay for Life of Williamsport for the past three years. Each year, they've held fundraisers in the spring and summer, but needed something for the fall and winter. When a team member came up with the idea of an "Ugly Christmas Sweater Party Fundraiser," all that was left was securing a venue.
Reppert spoke with the Cell Block's general manager and is very thankful for the night club's cooperation, especially at such a busy time of year. She said the staff at the Cell Block has "always been good to our team and to Williams-port's Relay For Life event."
No one ever said supporting a good cause couldn't be fun, either. Prizes will be given out in four categories, including "Best Santa" (to the participant with the 'best' St. Nick on their sweater), "Best Ensemble" (for the participant who best ties everything together with accessories like a hat, or jewelry), "Most Obnoxious" and "The Ultimate Ugly," (both of which are self-explanatory).
Party-goers who choose to participate will be given numbers and have their photographs taken. From there, Reppert and her relay team will choose the top three 'candidates' from each category. The remaining yarn-clad contestants will then compete for the audience's vote, so that everyone will be able to get in on the fun. The night also will include games, trivia and live music provided by Ron Fleeger and the Keystone Ska Exchange.
Admission to the party will be $3. Participation in the sweater competitions will be free, and by the sound of it, the night will be priceless.
The "Ugly Christmas Sweater Party Fundraiser," which will benefit the Relay For Life of Williams-port and the American Cancer Society, will be held at the Cell Block, located at 154 West Third St.
The doors open at 9 p.m. and the Cell Block closes at 2 a.m. Admission is $3 at the door. For more information contact the Cell Block at 322-1728.
