Prom is a special dance event held in high schools, usually for students in their junior or senior year. It is often seen as a rite of passage and a major social event. Students dress up in formal clothes, like tuxedos and gowns, and gather for an evening of dancing, photos, and celebration. Prom is usually held in the spring and can be a memorable night that marks the end of the school year and, for many, the end of high school.
Interesting Facts about Prom:
- Prom is short for “promenade,” which originally referred to the formal introduction of guests at a party.
- The first proms were held in the late 19th century at American universities.
- High school proms became popular in the 1930s and 1940s.
- Prom season typically runs from late April to early June.
- The prom king and queen are usually elected by the students.
- Corsages and boutonnieres are traditional accessories exchanged between prom dates.
- The average cost of attending prom can be several hundred dollars, including attire, tickets, and transportation.
- Some students arrive at prom in limousines or rented luxury cars.
- Promposals, elaborate and creative ways of asking someone to prom, have become popular in recent years.
- Prom themes can range from Hollywood glamour to tropical paradise.
- Many students participate in prom after-parties or post-prom events organized by parents or schools.
- Prom night often includes a sit-down dinner or buffet before the dance.
- In some schools, juniors and seniors attend separate proms.
- Prom pictures, taken by professional photographers or at photo booths, are a big part of the event.
- Prom dresses and tuxedos can be rented or bought, with many students opting for designer brands.
- Prom is considered a significant event in American pop culture, often depicted in movies and TV shows.
- Some schools enforce a dress code to ensure appropriate attire for the event.
- In the past, prom was often held in the school gymnasium, but now it’s common to rent banquet halls or hotels.
- Prom traditions vary around the world, with some countries having their own unique customs.
- Prom can be a time of both excitement and stress for students, with a lot of planning involved.
- The term “prom-posal” was added to the Merriam-Webster dictionary in 2018.
- Some students go to prom in groups rather than with a date.
- The cost of prom dresses can range from affordable to very expensive designer gowns.
- Prom tickets are usually sold by the school and can be a significant part of the event’s budget.
- Hair and makeup appointments are commonly booked in advance for prom day.
- Many students save money for prom throughout the year or work part-time jobs to afford the expenses.
- Some schools offer “prom closets” where students can borrow dresses and suits for free.
- Prom etiquette includes traditions like holding the door open and formal introductions.
- The prom song, chosen by the student body, is often played for the final dance of the evening.
- Prom has evolved over the years but remains a cherished tradition for high school students.