Be they gift or gag, some sweaters are so ugly, they’re awesome. For the second year in a row, Riverbend Cafe will honor the garb so gaudy and awful, it’s grand. The annual Ugly Sweater Contest returns, starting at 4 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 30.

Guests are welcome to come for happy hour or dinner and have their photo taken, wearing their ugliest sweater.

A panel of three judges will determine the winner of a $50 gift card for The Riverbend Cafe. It’s their tastes that will determine the prize.

“Just as beauty is in the eye of the beholder, ugly is too,” says Riverbend Cafe owner Rich Maki. He was surprised by the turnout last year, and had many regulars asking when it would return.

Riverbend Cafe is located at 14303 436th Ave. S.E. Call the restaurant at (425) 888-6600 or visit theriverbendcafe.com.