After the 2020 Ugly Sweater 5K became a virtual race due to COVID-19 restrictions, Manheim Township assistant junior high cross-country coach, booster club member, and race organizer Michael Phillips is looking forward to offering a 5K that is more like the one that was held in 2019. "We will have post-race festivities to make it more of an experience and not just a race," said Phillips, who noted that two years ago, hot soup and hot chocolate were offered. "That was really well received. We are looking to do that again this year."

This year's annual Ugly Sweater 5K will be held at Landis Run Intermediate School, 25 Blue Streak Blvd., Lancaster, on Saturday, Dec. 4, starting at 10 a.m. Those wishing to take part are encouraged to sign up at http://www.lancastercountyxc5k.com by Wednesday, Dec. 1. People who register by Wednesday, Nov. 17, will receive a long-sleeved cotton shirt, race bag, souvenir bib, and homemade ornament. Those who register after that date will receive the aforementioned items while supplies last. Registration on the day of the event will begin at 8 a.m. in the Landis Run Intermediate School cafeteria.

Ugly Christmas sweaters, for which the run is named, will be judged at the event. "We had a great time with that last year when people sent in pictures," said Phillips, who added that he looks forward to seeing 10 ugly sweater outfit awards given out this year. "We have a committee, and (the members) are kind of like secret shoppers (who judge) the sweaters," he said, noting that the winners will receive gift cards.

According to Phillips, the course, which will start near Landis Run, is a true cross-country course. "It's on grass and dirt, and it covers portions of the high school course," he said. "It is a very spectator-friendly (course) because this is family centered."

The cross-country team will again help a nonprofit organization as part of the 5K. This year, Power Packs Project will be the recipient. A collection box will be available at this year's race for those who would like to donate goods such as canned chicken and tuna or peanut butter.

In 2019, about 230 runners took part, and the race raised $6,000. At the time, the booster club was working to purchase a timing system, which will be used for this year's race. Phillips would like to see comparable numbers this year. "If we can get more than 200 (runners), I will feel we rebounded," he said. Funds raised will be used to purchase T-shirts, honor senior runners, host the end-of-the-year banquet, and bring in motivational speakers. "We are really looking to create team-building opportunities (for the students)," said Phillips. "That's the focus with the funding to put it back into the kids." The Manheim Township junior high cross-country team has about 80 students, and the high school team has more than 50 taking part.