The school year is coming to an end, and with it comes one of the most talked-about events of the entire high school experience: Prom. For seniors, it’s the last big celebration before graduation, a night filled with fancy dresses, suits, dancing, photos, and memories. However, not everyone is convinced: opinions on prom are more split than ever, with many students asking if it’s still worth the hype and expense.
Many students still see prom as a special and meaningful night. It’s often described as the final time the whole class comes together before everyone goes their separate ways to college, jobs, or other paths. “I think Prom should be a fun thing for students” one student said. Dancing, taking pictures, and creating memories with friends remain the biggest draws. In a stressful school year full of exams, applications, and future worries, prom offers a chance to just celebrate and enjoy one glamoros evening.
However, not everyone is excited. A growing number of students criticize how expensive and stressful prom has gotten. Tickets, dresses or suits, hair and makeup, transportation, and flowers can easily add up to hundreds of dollars. In a poll, a majority of students said they plan on spending more that $200 on top of the proce of the tickets. This leads a lot of students to believe that prom is “Expensive, not worth the time” and “Overpriced”.
A recent poll conducted at our school reveals that students rate prom with an average of 3.47 out of 5 stars. This result perfectly mirrors the current split in opinions, good enough to keep the tradition alive, but clearly showing room for improvement.
So, is prom still relevant in 2026?
It depends on how you look at it. Prom can be a wonderful, unforgettable experience if it stays focused on fun, friendship, and celebration rather than perfection and money. At its best, it marks the end of an era and the beginning of something new. At its worst, it is little more than an overpriced event that creates more stress than joy.
In the end, there is no right or wrong answer. Some students will love every moment, others will skip it entirely, and many will find something in between.
