Prom is a significant event in many high schools across the United States and Canada. It marks the end of a student’s high school career and is considered a rite of passage into adulthood. But where did the name “prom” come from and how did this tradition begin?
The Origin of the Word “Prom”
The word “prom” is a shortened version of the word “promenade.” A promenade refers to a formal dance or public stroll. In the late 19th century, colleges and high schools began holding promenade dances as a way for students to socialize and celebrate the end of the school year.
The first recorded use of the word “prom” to refer to these end-of-year formal dances was in the early 20th century. By the 1930s and 1940s, calling the event a “prom” had become widespread across high schools in the United States.
The History of High School Proms
While proms have been a long-standing high school tradition, they have evolved over time. Here is a brief overview of the history of high school proms in America:
- Late 1800s – Elite Northeast colleges held promenade dances and balls for graduating classes.
- Early 1900s – High schools began hosting junior and senior balls and banquets.
- 1920s – High school proms became common across America as casual frolics.
- 1930s & 1940s – High school proms became more extravagant with big bands.
- 1950s – Prom themes, prom royalty, and other prom traditions took hold.
- 1960s & 1970s – Changing cultural norms led to less formal proms.
- 1980s & 1990s – Big hair, glamorous gowns, and limos brought back lavish proms.
- 2000s & 2010s – Elaborate “promposals” and pre-prom photo sessions gained popularity.
While prom has evolved over the decades, it has retained its essential role as an important rite of passage for American high school students.
Prom Traditions and Customs
High school proms are steeped in long-standing traditions and rituals. Here are some of the most notable prom customs:
- Asking a date: The tradition of asking someone to prom in an elaborate “promposal” has become popular in recent decades.
- Prom royalty: Many proms feature the crowning of a prom king and queen, selected by student votes.
- Grand entrances: Students like to arrive at prom in style, whether in a limousine or with other dramatic entrances.
- Fancy attire: Girls wear elegant gowns and boys dress in tuxedos or suits, following formal attire customs.
- Posing for pictures: Prom portraits and pre-prom photo shoots provide memories of the big night.
- Dinner: Most proms begin with a formal dinner, either on-site or at a reserved venue.
- Dancing: Proms feature DJs and dancing as a main event, from slow dances to grinding.
While not every prom follows these traditions precisely, they represent the most common customs seen at high school proms.
Significant Prom Expenses
Going to prom is a significant expense for a high school student. From buying or renting attire to dinner, transportation, tickets, and making it a special night, prom costs can really add up. Here are some of the major expenses associated with attending prom:
| Prom Expense | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Prom dress/tux rental | $100-$400 |
| Prom tickets | $50-$150 per couple |
| Dinner (at venue or restaurant) | $15-$50 per person |
| Limousine rental | $70-$100/hour |
| Prom photos | $25-$100+ for package |
| Hair/makeup | $40-$100 |
| Accessories (shoes, bag, jewelry) | $50-$200 |
| Corsage/boutonniere | $10-$30 |
With all these expenses, it’s easy for total prom costs to exceed $500-$1000 for each person. This makes prom an expensive night out for high schoolers.
Why Prom Remains So Popular
Given the high cost and stress of prom, it’s fair to wonder why it remains such a popular tradition among teens. There are several reasons prom continues to be a highly anticipated event:
- It provides a memorable capstone to the high school experience.
- It allows students to get dressed up and feel glamorous.
- It gives high schoolers a chance to celebrate with classmates before graduation.
- It enables students to show off their date and have a romantic night.
- The traditions and customs make it feel momentous.
- Prom photos provide lasting memories and Instagram-worthy images.
- It represents crossing the threshold into adulthood and independence.
For generations of American teens, the importance of that one special night outweighs the stresses of asking a date, finding the perfect dress, and completing other prom preparations. Even with the costs and planning, prom remains a beloved high school tradition.
The Future of High School Proms
What does the future hold for high school proms? Here are some potential ways prom may evolve in the coming years:
- Virtual proms could increase due to preferences for online interactions.
- Prom themes and styles may change with shifting cultural trends.
- Greater inclusion and diversity in prom court, couples, and groups.
- More creativity in “promposals” and asking dates via elaborate stunts.
- Higher costs as students spend more on Instagram-worthy prom experiences.
- Greater role of parents as social media showcases prom details.
- New traditions and customs may emerge and change prom’s flavor.
At the same time, the classic traditions of prom royalty, elegant dresses, dancing, and celebrating with classmates will likely endure. Prom has proven its ability to evolve yet retain its magical appeal for over a century.
Conclusion
Prom has its roots in the formal dance promenades of late 19th century America and signaled the transition into adulthood for elite college students. By the early 20th century, high schools had adopted proms as a milestone event for their graduating classes. While prom has evolved over the decades, it remains a beloved spring tradition commemorating the nearing end of high school.
Prom persists as a memorable highlight of the high school experience due to its time-honored customs, the chance to glamorously dress up, its Instagrammable moments, and the thrilling transition it represents. Though not without significant costs and planning stress, American teens for generations to come will eagerly await the magical night that is prom.