County youth between the ages of 12-18 are invited to the San Benito County Free Library to take part in its first-ever Ugly Holiday Sweater Design Competition on Friday, Dec. 16, from 4-5 p.m. A sense of humor and a sense of fun are required as participants will compete against each other to create this memorable, aesthetically-challenged holiday item.
Participants must bring their own plain, solid color sweater the day of the competition, and may also bring their own decorating supplies (though the library will be providing some basic decorating materials). Participants may also bring their own, preferably holiday-themed, music. Light refreshments will be provided.
Judges will evaluate sweaters using various criteria of ugly, with prime consideration given to originality and creativity. The grand prize winner will win a gift card and an unspecified secret, seasonally-appropriate prize. All participants will be given photo stick props to help showcase their creations.
In addition to the sweater program, the library is looking for volunteers to help out with its annual children’s holiday program. It will be held on Thursday, Dec. 8, 5-7 p.m. This program is for young children and families. Volunteers are needed to help with setup and cleanup, as well as with monitoring children during the event.
Youth and other volunteers interested in participating in either the Ugly Holiday Sweater Design Competition or the annual children’s holiday program are encouraged to sign up by visiting the library in-person at 470 Fifth St. in Hollister, or by contacting us by phone at (831) 636-4107 or by email at library@cosb.us.