According to Paul McGahren, one of the organizers of the Manheim Township High School (MTHS) cross-country teams Ugly Sweater 5K, 298 runners took part in the 2021 race. "We expect 300-plus this year," said McGahren. "The participant total has tripled since 2018 due to the family fun of the event."

Family fun is a hallmark of the annual run, which involves a 5K race on a mostly grass cross-country course decorated for the holidays, along with an ugly Christmas sweater competition, soup and hot chocolate, and a chance to bless a local organization by donating canned goods.

This year's annual Ugly Sweater 5K will be held at Landis Run Intermediate School, 25 Blue Streak Blvd., Lancaster, on Saturday, Dec. 3, starting at 10 a.m. Those wishing to take part are encouraged to sign up at https://my.raceresult.com/216696/registration by midnight on Wednesday, Nov. 30. Registration on the day of the event will begin at 8:30 a.m. in the Landis Run Intermediate School cafeteria.

Ugly Christmas sweaters, for which the run is named, will be judged at the event by a committee of members who act like secret shoppers in selecting the winners. Gift cards and other prizes will be given to those wearing the sweaters the committee members choose.

The course, which will start near Landis Run, has been called a "true cross-country course." "It's a great running trail," said McGahren. "Mike Phillips, assistant coach of the Manheim Township Middle School (MTMS) cross-country team, does a great job of making sure the course is in good shape prior to the run." McGahren added that team members have taken it upon themselves to make the route festive. "The kids go out ahead of time, and they put up lights, ornaments, and tinsel," he said.

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 the race for those who would like to donate unexpired canned goods.

McGahren noted that the event contributes significantly to the MTHS Cross-Country Booster Club's annual budget. Previously, the run helped raise money to purchase a timing system, which has been used for team events. Now, the revenue is designated to help subsidize events, equipment, and clothing not covered by the school budget. "The funds also provide financial assistance for anyone needing a hand with sneakers, cleats, uniforms, or other essential equipment," said McGahren. Some runners have told organizers that they view the run as signaling the start of the holiday season. "The post-race soup and hot chocolate, the decorated trails, the chance to proudly wear ugly sweaters and crazy outfits, and the various awards and prizes have made the whole event both light-hearted yet competitive," said McGahren. "Some folks have said it's a great way to get everyone up and out in a holiday mood - and after the race they go shopping for a tree or (presents)."

During the fall season, the MTMS team has included more than 75 runners, and the MTHS team had 60 runners. Members of both MTMS girls' and boys' teams took first place at the Iron Bridge Invitational in October. The MTHS girls won the Lancaster-Lebanon League and District 3 championships. Both the boys and girls MTHS teams took part in Pennsylvania state meets in Hershey.