Formal vs. Prom

Prom

A promenade dance, commonly called a prom, is a dance party of high school students. It may be offered in semi-formal black tie or informal suit for boys, with dresses for girls. This event is typically held near the end of the senior year (the last year of high school). Proms figure greatly in popular culture and are major events among high school students. There may be individual senior (12th grade) and junior (11th grade) proms or they may be combined.

At a prom, a “prom king” and a “prom queen” may be revealed. These are honorary titles awarded to students elected in a school-wide vote prior to the prom. Other students may be honored with inclusion in a prom court. The selection method for a prom court is similar to that of homecoming queen/princess, king, and court. Inclusion in a prom court may be a reflection of popularity of those students elected and their level of participation in school activities, such as clubs or sports.

The “prom queen” and “prom king” may be given crowns to wear. Members of the prom court may be given sashes to wear and photographed together.Similar events, which may be locally inspired by debutante balls, take place in many other parts of the world. In Canada, the terms “formal” and “Grad” are often used, while in Australia and New Zealand, the terms school formal and ball are most commonly used for occasions equivalent to the American prom, and the event is usually held for students in Year 12, although the bestowing of the regal titles does not occur. Many schools hold a formal graduation ball for finishing students at the end of the year in place of or as well as a formal. In Ireland a debutante ball or debs may also be held. In Poland, high schools organize a “studniówka”. The term “prom” is becoming more common in the United Kingdom and Canada because of the influence of American films and television shows.