Prom Activities | Beyond the Dance Floor | Engaging Experiences for All

Prom activities poster.

First Posted June 29, 2023 | 🕒 Last Updated on November 2, 2024 by Ryan Conlon

It is prom season! As high school students everywhere flock to their local hall or hotel to enjoy one of the biggest nights in their lives, it’s essential that your planned prom activities for the big night make it truly memorable.

With careful planning and creative thinking, you can ensure that this special event will be something that your student won’t soon forget.

Here we detail some great ideas on how you, as a member of the Prom Planning Committee, can help make sure this momentous occasion is unique and unforgettable.

Whether it’s an epic dance-off competition or photobooth fun for all involved, there are plenty of ways to ensure everyone makes memories they’ll never forget, all while embracing the magic of your chosen prom theme at this most wonderful time of year!

Prom Activities

Dance Floor Activities:

  1. Dance-Off: Organize a dance competition where students can show off their moves.
  2. Prom King and Queen Dance: Have a special dance for the elected Prom King and Queen.
  3. Group Dance: Teach everyone a fun, simple dance routine to a popular song and perform it as a group.
  4. Slow Dance Time: Make sure to set aside some time for classic slow dances.
  5. DJ Shoutouts: Encourage the DJ to give shoutouts or play specific songs on request from students.

Off-Dance Floor Activities / Separate Room:

  1. Photo Booth: Set up a photo booth with props that match the prom theme.
  2. Karaoke Room: Set up a karaoke station where students can take a break from dancing and sing their favorite songs.
  3. Game Room: Consider setting up a room with classic games like a pool table, ping pong, or board games.
  4. Lounge Area: Create a space where attendees can rest, chat, and get some refreshments.
  5. Caricature Artist or Silhouette Artist: Hire a professional to provide these unique keepsakes.
  6. Memory Wall: Create a space where students can write or pin up their favorite high school memories.
  7. Video Screening: In a separate room, have a slideshow or video playing that features highlights from the school year.
  8. Fortune Teller or Hypnotist: A fun and engaging entertainment option.
  9. Dessert Bar or Chocolate Fountain: A special treat that adds an extra touch of indulgence to the evening.

Remember, the goal is to ensure everyone has a good time, so consider the interests and preferences of the students when deciding which activities to include.


Often Overlooked Prom Activities and Amenities

Planning a prom involves lots of details, and it’s easy to overlook certain elements. Here’s a list of activities or items that might be easily forgotten:

  1. Sensory Room: A quiet, calming space for students who may feel overwhelmed by the noise and crowd. This room could be equipped with comfortable seating, dimmed lights, and soft music or white noise.
  2. Water Stations: Dancing and socializing can make people thirsty. Set up several water stations around the venue to keep everyone hydrated.
  3. Snack Bar: Besides a main meal, consider having a snack bar where attendees can grab something light to eat throughout the event.
  4. Charging Stations: In this digital age, many students will appreciate a place where they can charge their phones.
  5. Rest Areas: Make sure there are sufficient places for attendees to sit and rest when they’re not dancing.
  6. Lost and Found: Designate a specific location for lost items.
  7. First Aid Station: It’s essential to have basic first aid supplies on hand, and ideally a few individuals who are trained in first aid.
  8. Coat Check: Depending on the time of year and location, a place for attendees to leave their coats might be necessary.
  9. Flip Flop Basket: Heels can be uncomfortable after a few hours. Consider having a basket of inexpensive flip flops that attendees can change into.
  10. Toiletries in the Restroom: Stock the restrooms with essential toiletries like hand soap, toilet paper, and also consider things like hair spray, safety pins, band-aids, and breath mints.
  11. Signage: Clear signs indicating where everything is located can be very helpful.

Remember, planning for these smaller details can make a big difference in how smoothly the prom runs and how much everyone enjoys it.


FAQ

1. Q: What kind of activities can we plan for the prom besides dancing?

A: Consider activities like a dance-off, group dances, photo booths, karaoke, game rooms, lounges, and areas for students to rest and chat. These can provide variety and entertainment throughout the event.

2. Q: What are some easily forgotten details we should plan for?

A: Some easily overlooked details include setting up a sensory room for students who may need a quiet space, providing water stations and a snack bar for refreshments, ensuring access to charging stations, and having a designated lost and found area.

3. Q: How can we make sure everyone stays hydrated during the prom?

A: Set up water stations throughout the venue to provide easy access to drinking water. Encourage attendees to stay hydrated and consider offering other non-alcoholic beverages as well.

4. Q: What should we consider when planning a sensory room?

A: A sensory room should be a calm, quiet space where students can go to relax and decompress. Ensure comfortable seating, soft lighting, and possibly soothing music or white noise.

5. Q: How can we incorporate easily forgettable amenities like charging stations and rest areas?

A: Designate specific areas for charging stations where students can plug in their phones. Ensure there are enough comfortable seating options scattered around the venue for students to rest when they’re not dancing.

6. Q: What kind of items should we have in a first aid station?

A: Stock the first aid station with basic supplies like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and ice packs. It’s also helpful to have a few individuals who are trained in first aid available to assist if needed.

7. Q: Should we consider providing a snack bar in addition to a main meal?

A: Offering a snack bar can be a great idea, especially for longer events. Include light snacks like finger foods, chips, fruits, and desserts to keep attendees satisfied throughout the night.

8. Q: How can we ensure that easily forgotten details like toiletries in the restroom are taken care of?

A: Check the restrooms regularly to ensure they are well-stocked with essential items like hand soap, toilet paper, and paper towels. Consider including extra items like hair spray, safety pins, band-aids, and breath mints.

Remember, paying attention to these often overlooked activities and details can greatly enhance the overall prom experience for attendees, making it more enjoyable and memorable.


Conclusion

Prom is the night to remember! It is an event that allows teenagers to have fun and feel special. It should be a night of celebration, dancing, and memories to last a lifetime.

Planning a memorable prom does not have to be expensive – with a few creative ideas, you can provide your classmates with a unique experience for them to share and look back on.

From selfie booths and classic dance moves, to sparkly dresses and shared food tables — there are plenty of ways to make sure everyone has a good time!

Don’t forget that one of the most important aspects of prom is making sure it’s safe for all who attend.

With rules in place for safety as well as responsible behavior, prom will be something everyone can look forward too!