While the history of proms goes back hundreds of years in some form or another, Brandon’s Alt-Prom started just a few years ago, as a place where homeschooled teens could feel comfortable rocking out with their peers. In just a short time, it’s grown into a state-wide, all-inclusive event. All you need is the want for a good time, and to be between the ages of 12 to 19.

Historically, alt-proms have been a place free of societal expectations, where teens can socialize and dance without the worry of not fitting in. In 2023, Harmony Van Eaton, a Brandon home-school mom, took the idea from Florida’s homeschool prom program and gave it a local twist, hoping to make it a yearly event. She procured the Town Hall in Brandon (free of charge as it is a free public event for kids), put out the word via Facebook and home-schooled groups, found a photographer, sourced decor and encouraged attendees to bring food or drinks for pot luck. Previous years themes have included “Stranger Things” and “Footloose.”  This year’s theme is “Back to the Future.”

The biggest question Van Eaton gets is how many kids will attend. Over the years, they’ve had as few as 20 or as many as 65. “I only know MY two kids are going for sure, it’s always a surprise!” she said. “Every year my kids nervously wait and I become a little convinced no one is coming. Many come without dates, but we have had a happy mix of almost entirely strangers show up every year and be friends by the end of the night!” 

When Van Eaton says this prom is inclusive, she means it. All are welcome — homeschooled and unschooled teens as well as those who attend public school; teen moms and their babies, LGBTQIA+ community, kids who wear headphones or ear plugs to mute the noise. A wheelchair accessible lift is available for those who may need it on the bottom floor of Town Hall. “It is anti-racist, anti-sexist, and as ADA friendly as the building and our own limits allow.” Minors can attend without adult supervision, though a guardian or parent should plan to stay if the attendee is prone to wandering from events. Adults are welcome to stay should their teen prefer. Some teens may want to hang out on the first floor of the Town Hall and peek upstairs on occasion, and that’s okay too. 

This year, the organizers almost found themselves without a professional photographer since their usual photographer will be traveling at the time of the prom. Van Eaton was able to book someone else, but not without personal expense. If folks are willing to donate to help offset her costs, you can reach out via email to [email protected] with the subject line: Prom. Parents can donate decorations as well.

As Van Eaton’s own teens grow older, she has just a couple of wishes for the future of the alt-prom: that another parent takes up the mantle and continues the tradition when her kids graduate out, and that a local hotel could offer discounts to teens and their families coming from out of town who may not be able to afford it otherwise.

This year’s alt-prom takes place Saturday, May 16, from 6-10 p.m. at Brandon’s Town Hall. Ages 12-19 are welcome to attend. No RSVP necessary — just the desire for fun and to make new friends. More information can be found at the event page on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1BLVGEx8EG/