Lemondrop

Parties! So awesome, right? Right! Except, of course, when they're stupid. And while 2010 has been an awesome year for many things -- salmonella, bedbugs, unemployed teenagers -- it hasn't been a great year for theme parties.

Really, you ask? Really, we answer below. Even though it's only September, last year's ugly sweater party has some serious competition. First we heard about the new "sex party" for expecting parents. Then we rounded out the list. Check out our picks for eight of the stupidest parties of 2010.

Expectant Parent "Sex Parties" (No, Not That Kind)

ABC News reports that some couples are choosing to discover/reveal the sex of their impending babies at a party with their friends and family. Hey! Is this really a thing? God, we hope not. Just send a birth announcement and spare us our Friday night.

"Plus One" Parties

These awkward events involve bringing a single friend of the opposite sex whom you're not interested in as your "plus one," in the hopes that, uh, someone else will be into him. There's nothing more alluring in a set-up than the classic, "I don't want to bang this guy, but hey, maybe YOU do." Oh, but free hummus, I guess?

Divorce Parties

This is really a trend, apparently! Along with the launch of divorce cards. What are you supposed to say at such an event? "Congratulations on your misery! No, no, sorry, I can't stay and get blitzed on cantaloupe-flavored merlot. Here's a Garfield balloon, a copy of 'Eat, Pray, Love' and some drugs left over from my wisdom-tooth surgery. Peace!"

Cuddle and Hug Parties

Not necessarily the newest trend, but unfortunately, still making news. At these creepy to-dos, a bunch of grown people get together to experience the heaaaaaaling power of touching others without crossing any sexual boundaries, often in pajamas or yoga clothing. Gross. Want to cuddle with strangers without having sex? Go to a dive bar in a hipster neighborhood and find a needy graphic designer on SSRIs like the rest of us.

Sponsored Product Parties

What seems like a cool way to get free stuff (and maybe a Flip cam) is actually kind of an annoying, intrusive advertising gimmick. Sign up at a site like House Party, and companies that make frozen pizza, feminine products, drink mixes, etc. will send you samples to enjoy with (their target demographic) your girlfriends. In a way, it sounds cool, because they're basically giving you free stuff in exchange for advertising their products, but a lot of these parties discourage drinking or have absurd "follow-up" requirements, like sending in interviews of your friends talking about how great panty liners are. We're not going to do that. Not without a beer or six.

Over-Inclusive, Infinite and Otherwise Excessive "Showers"

First there was the three-part bridal shower, then the "Jack and Jill" couple's wedding shower, then the groom's shower, then the co-ed baby shower, then the "daddy shower." It would be one thing if you were just inviting us over for canapés, but "showers" imply the need to bring a gift. Or six. We're in a recession, you losers. How many presents do you want? Well, it doesn't matter. If we have to go to some party for you every two weeks, then enjoy your "gift": It's a $5 gift certificate to Subway and a hearty "Congratulations!"

Kid-Style Birthday Parties

... for grown adults. If it looks like it could be a fete for a 7-year-old (think: balloons, party hats, furry mascots), but the birthday boy is turning 40, you're there. Now all you can do is hope there's cool candy in the goodie bag.