A Look at Prom Traditions at Pennridge and Around the World

Prom is a tradition that teenagers have cherished for over a century. Prom, short for “promenade,” can be traced back to ancient Greece. It’s a semi-formal dance held towards the end of high school, serving as a memorable send-off for graduating students.

One of the most exciting aspects of prom is the promposal. It’s a creative way of asking someone to be your prom date. People have gotten super creative with this, from presenting bouquets to elaborate, clever signs and surprise performances. It’s all about making the invitation special and memorable. Corsages and boutonnieres are iconic and classic symbols of prom. Corsages are small floral arrangements usually worn on the wrist or pinned to a dress, while boutonnieres are smaller versions worn on the lapel of a tuxedo or suit jacket. This tradition dates back centuries; men would wear corsages to symbolize their love and affection for their dates. Another exciting tradition is the crowning of a prom king and queen. This tradition has been around for decades and started in the 1930s. It’s a way to celebrate and honor students who have excelled in academics, athletics, and extracurricular activities. The dance is an opportunity to enjoy music, dance with friends, and have a memorable night. After prom, many students continue the celebration with post-prom parties. It’s a way to keep the fun going and make even more memories with friends.
The prom expenses can add up, accounting for the cost of a dress or suit, corsage and boutonniere, transportation if necessary, and extra small touches like makeup, hair, and nails. The price can range from around $50 to several hundred dollars. It’s definitely an investment in creating an unforgettable prom experience.

Prom is not only a big deal in the United States but also celebrated in various ways around the world. In New Zealand, they have the Debutante Ball, which takes place during winter. Austria has the Maturaball, which happens in January or February before exams. Interestingly, students in Austria often invite their parents or relatives to join them. Many countries have their celebratory dances 100 days before the end of school, like Belgium’s “100-dagen feest” and Italy’s “I cento giorni.” Lithuania has “Šimtadienis,” equivalent to prom, while Poland calls it “studniówka.” Recently, prom has also gained popularity in England.”

At Upper Dublin High School, prom is at the Radisson Hotel in Philadelphia. The event takes place from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. and is followed by an exciting tradition called “Prom After Dark,” a post-prom party. Students can stay overnight and continue the celebrations with prizes, dancing, food, drinks, and hanging out with friends. Last year, they raised $5,365 to fund the event. Brooke Hall, a student at Upper Dublin High School, said, “As a senior, I think prom is the last thing that our grade does before graduation so it feels very sentimental.”

The junior prom at Pennridge High is going to be on April 27. It is being held at Iacocca Hall from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., and students must purchase a ticket for $65. Places like Men’s Wearhouse, All Things Prom, Country Bride and Gent, or Windsor are great places to look for prom attire. The seniors’ big night is June 1 at the Steelstacks venue, about a 37-minute drive from the school. The event starts at 6:15 p.m. and wraps up at 10 p.m., with each ticket costing $85. Melissa O’Brien, a teacher at Pennridge High School, is working behind the scenes to plan this year’s prom events, “I have truly enjoyed being a part of Pennridge prom planning over the last few years. This is my second time as a class advisor, and I always enjoy seeing the excitement students experience as prom approaches.” She added, “I also love seeing the creativity our students have when it comes to selecting a theme and choosing prom decorations. I also enjoy events where we can bring the entire class together. “

Proms worldwide symbolize a coming-of-age celebration, blending cultural traditions with modern festivities. At Pennridge, prom is a treasured event that offers students a night of cherished memories as they close one chapter and look forward to the next.

Sources
https://www.history.com/news/prom-invention-traditions
https://greenlight.com/learning-center/life-moments-and-milestones/what-is-prom
https://www.seventeen.com/prom/a39446/weird-prom-traditions/