Top White Elephant Gifts of 2017

Each year around this time since 2010, we've spotlighted the top White Elephant gifts as chosen by the folks at ARC Thrift Stores. And this year, the five selections, pictured below, contain a twist for yours truly. Turns out I already own an item just like the number one choice and consider it to be a treasure than transcends the White Elephant concept.

By Michael Roberts

December 18, 2017

Image: This flirty soda-can holder was ARC's number-one white elephant gift of 2013.

This flirty soda-can holder was ARC's number-one white elephant gift of 2013. YouTube file photo

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Each year around this time since 2010, we've spotlighted the top White Elephant gifts as chosen by the folks at ARC Thrift Stores. And this year, the five selections, pictured below, contain a twist for yours truly.

Turns out I already own an item just like the number-one choice and consider it to be a treasure that transcends the White Elephant concept.

Those of you attending a White Elephant gathering during the 2017 holiday season will be hard-pressed to find anything better. But looking at the weird and wonderful collections assembled by ARC stores throughout the metro area (most of which offer half-price Saturdays) will be mighty entertaining anyhow.

Continue to count down the five winners below, featuring ARC commentary.

Courtesy of ARC Thrift Stores

Number 5: "Silverware Necklace: We Are ready for Xmas Dinner at Grandma’s House."

Courtesy of ARC Thrift Stores

Number 4: "OK Hand: We believe you, Mr. President!"

Courtesy of ARC Thrift Stores

Number 3: "V8 Sweater: You could have had a V8…sweater!"

Courtesy of ARC Thrift Stores

Number 2: "Sub Sandwich Sweater: A sandwich never looked so good!"

Courtesy of ARC Thrift Stores

Number 1: "James Brown: Serenade a Friend With This Feel Good Gift" (Note: The Hardest Working Plastic Figure in Show Business dances and moves its jaw as the real JB's voice shouts and screams "I Feel Good.")

Michael Roberts began his career with Westword in 1990 as music editor. In 1999, he took on a new role, full-time media reporter, as author of a column called The Message. In 2008, he became the lead writer for Westword's news blog, The Latest Word, a position he held until January 2023. Michael continues to freelance for Westword, covering everything from business to sports and the media; he also contributes to Jazziz, a national music magazine. He holds a bachelor's degree from what is now Colorado Mesa University and master's degrees from the University of California, Los Angeles, and Northwestern University.

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