Exciting and entertaining prom alternatives

Students who have been told prom will not be taking place in 2021 may be wondering how they can mark this typically momentous occasion. In 2020, actor John Krasinski orchestrated and hosted a virtual prom over his YouTube channel "Some Good News" for high school seniors who were not able to attend a traditional prom. Many families also took the initiative and threw their sons and daughters private proms at home.

Restrictions that were in place last year are no longer as stringent in many places, so students may have a bit more wiggle room in regard to planning prom alternatives that make the best of the situation. Just because one isn't taking part in a traditional prom doesn't mean the fun factor has to diminish. These ideas will help ensure a memorable night regardless of the situation students find themselves in.

Host a patio prom

Hold a prom right on the patio, inviting select friends to meet the quota of guests allowed where you live. Good times can still be had as long as you're sharing the experience with your best friends. Set up a Bluetooth speaker, stream favorite music, cater the party, and hang stringed lights for the right ambiance. If you know a local photographer, see if he or she can offer professional prom photos to mark the occasion.

Visit an amusement park

A thrilling alternative to prom is to gather with a small group of friends and purchase passes to a nearby amusement park. Spend the evening riding heart-racing roller coasters or looking out across the landscape atop a giant Ferris wheel. With sights, sounds and food, a night at the amusement park can make for lasting memories.

Dine out

With many restaurants increasing capacity for indoor and outdoor dining, typical prom-goers can don their festive attire and make reservations at a local restaurant. Data from Money magazine and USA Today indicates proms can cost anywhere from $700 to $900 per attendee depending on where one resides. Indulging in a high-end meal with friends likely won't scratch the surface of traditional prom expenses and you'll be able to enjoy conversation, ambiance and delicious food.

Take to the city

With parental permission first, you can plan a sight-seeing tour of a nearby big city, such as New York, Atlanta, Los Angeles, or Chicago. Take in the tourist sites, dine out and revel in the big lights and fast-paced action.

Proms may be on hold once more, but students can still have fun and celebrate.