FEATURE: American Celebrations Boosting the UK Events Scene
From proms to gender reveals - we take a look at the traditionally American events that continue to gain cultural relevance in the UK
Bridal shower [image: Canva]
Over the last few decades and again In recent years, the UK has warmly embraced a variety of traditional American celebrations, such as proms, baby showers, gender reveals, and sweet 16 parties. These events have not only captured the imagination of the British public but have also significantly boosted the event industry, contributing an estimated £5 billion annually to the overall economy.
Proms
Proms, once a quintessentially American high school tradition, have become a staple in the UK. Schools across the country now host glamorous prom nights, complete with red carpets, elegant dresses, and limousines. The popularity of these events has been fueled by American TV shows and movies like "High School Musical" and "She’s All That," which showcase the glitz and excitement of prom night, often with key storylines and scenes centring around the big night. This trend has led to a booming business for event planners, dress shops, and limo hire companies, all keen to cater to the growing demand.
Prom scene, High School Musical 3
Baby and Bridal Showers
Baby showers have also crossed the Atlantic. In contrast to newer celebrations like gender reveals, these celebrations have been well-established in the UK for quite some time, yet their popularity continues to grow. Meanwhile, there has been a shift to Bridal showers from the more recognised Hen party.
Shows like "Friends" and "Sex and the City" have featured these events, making them more familiar and desirable. These gatherings offer a chance for friends and family to come together, often with elaborate themes and decorations. The rise of these events has fueled the growth of specialised vendors offering everything from custom sweet treats to bespoke decorations and party favours.
The One With The Baby Shower - Friends
Gender Reveal Parties
Gender reveal parties are another American import that has taken the UK by storm. Expectant parents now host creative and often elaborate events to reveal the gender of their baby, with everything from coloured smoke bombs to specially designed cakes with hued fillings. Influenced by viral social media posts and reality TV shows like "Keeping Up with the Kardashians," these reveals have become a significant source of business for bakers, party planners, and photographers.
Gender reveal confetti and powder canon [image: Creative Union Design]
Sweet 16 Parties
Sweet 16 parties have similarly gained traction, offering teenagers a memorable way to celebrate this milestone birthday. Inspired by TV shows like "My Super Sweet 16", these parties often feature elaborate and imaginative themes, live performances, and 360 photo booths. This trend has given a boost to venues typically used for weddings and entertainment providers beyond the usual calendar events.
Sweet 16 party [image: Kiana Scott Photography]
The Future: Thanksgiving in the UK?
Looking ahead, Thanksgiving is another American event that might gain popularity in the UK. Recently, some restaurants and hotels have started offering Thanksgiving Day events for tourists and expats. With its focus on family gatherings, festive meals, and gratitude, Thanksgiving has the potential to resonate with British sensibilities and could become another opportunity for the event industry to thrive.
Overall, the embrace of these celebrations has injected new life into the UK’s event industry. Businesses have adapted to meet the demand for more personalised and extravagant parties, creating a vibrant market that shows no signs of slowing down. As British society continues to evolve, these once-foreign traditions have found a permanent home, enriching the cultural landscape and economy alike.