As the Christmas season begins, some are excited for eggnog and presents, while others enjoy trimming the tree next to a cozy fire. Yet in recent years there has developed a country-wide mania for “ugly” holiday sweaters. Thousands of knitted Christmas jumpers will be sold at resale stores or plucked from grandmothers’ closets, all competing for the most attention. Some sweaters light up, others jingle, but no matter the ornamentation, all ugly Christmas sweaters are held close to our hearts. Eau Claire’s Ugly Sweater Run 5K celebrates this trend. Meet at Owen Park at 8:15am Saturday, Dec. 16, for communal exercise and to compete for an award for the most festive (or should it be ugliest?) holiday attire. Admission is free, and all are welcome to participate. Warm beverages and sweet treats will be served afterwards to combat the chilly weather. But with the way this December is going, who knows if it will be snowing or 75 and sunny. Whatever the weather, while you’re getting some cardio, give back! Donations will be collected for the Community Table, a nonprofit organization providing well-balanced meals for those in need. Unite in yuletide merriment and hopefully this 5K will help you keep off that excess holiday cushion! But who are we kidding, Christmas isn’t Christmas if you don’t eat your weight in gingerbread men.

Ugly Sweater Run 5K • Saturday, Dec. 8, 8:15am • Blue Ox Running 417 S. Barstow St, Eau Claire • FREE