Prom is a highly anticipated and exciting social event for high school juniors and seniors.

From dress shopping and booking hair and manicure appointments to getting fitted for a tuxedo and buying the perfect corsage, preparing for prom is a big (and often expensive) deal for many young people and their parents.

Although prom in its precise definition is short for promenade dance—a formal dance party for high school students held toward the end of the school year—there are several other activities that typically take place on prom night, including group photo sessions, dinners and afterparties.

Present-day prom differs significantly from early versions of the event, which dates all the way back to the late 19^th century. The history of prom is rich in many obscure but interesting and culturally significant details that have shaped it into the event it is today.

The Late 19^th Century: Debutante Balls

Contemporary prom has its roots in debutante balls. These glamorous events served as coming-of-age ceremonies for young women from wealthy families. Participating in a debutante ball meant a teenage girl was ready to be introduced to society and meet her future husband. As dating in the late 19^th century was unheard of, attending a debutante ball gave young women the opportunity to merge themselves into polite society and meet eligible bachelors.

Although marriage is no longer at the center of this centuries-old tradition, debutante balls continue to take place all over the United States. Their purpose nowadays is for young women to network, make lasting friendships (with both men and women), celebrate adulthood and give back to the community.

The 1920s: The Introduction of Proms in High Schools

Until the early 20^th century, proms were sophisticated tea parties reserved for male college students and their affluent families. In the 1920s, proms began transitioning to high schools where they became a much more causal and inclusive event for teenage boys and girls on the brink of graduation. By the 1930s, it was customary for high school seniors to attend prom under strict supervision of teachers and parents. While college proms celebrated wealth and social status, the goal of high school proms was to teach young men and women their assigned gender roles.

The 1950s: Proms Become an Integral Part of the High School Experience

In the 1950s, prom became an integral part of every student’s high school experience. The post-war economic boom made it possible for proms to move from high school gyms to more sophisticated locations like hotels and country clubs.

During this time, no high school prom was complete without the culminating event--choosing the king and queen of the prom. These two longed-for titles were reserved for the most popular students at the school.

1970s and Onward: Inching Toward Racial Inclusion

It wasn’t until the 1970s when African American students were allowed to attend prom alongside white students. However, ongoing racial tensions perpetuated the segregation, resulting in parents of white students organizing exclusive parties for their children. In response, African American parents did the same for their kids.

As years passed and societal views evolved, more and more high schools began holding integrated proms welcoming students of all colors and cultural backgrounds.

Nowadays, young people from all walks of life get to attend prom. The event allows high school students to have fun, celebrate milestones and spend quality time with friends and family before graduation.

Stunning Prom Venue in Fairfax, Virginia

If you’re concerned about some of the racial or gender insensitivities of proms from decades past, or the conformist roles they played in establishing gender norms, you’re not alone. Fortunately, there is nothing inherently wrong with the idea of young adults and soon-to-be-adults celebrating the end of a significant chapter of their lives. Modern proms can be fun, inclusive events that are safe and welcoming to every student.

CrystalView in Fairfax is the perfect venue for hosting high school prom and other memorable events.

Our luxurious interior paired with delicious catering and state-of-the-art entertainment is what sets us apart from other venues.

To learn more about CrystalView or to schedule a tour, call (703) 218-4444 or send us a message.