The Proms, more formally known as The BBC Proms, is a summer season of daily orchestral classical music concerts and other events held annually, predominantly in the Royal Albert Hall in London. “Prom” is short for ”promenade” concert, a term which originally referred to outdoor concerts in London's pleasure gardens, where the audience was free to stroll around while the orchestra was playing. ”Promming” now refers to the use of the standing areas inside the hall for which ticket prices are much lower than for the reserved seating. Proms concert-goers, particularly those who stand, are commonly referred to as "Prommers".
The Last Night concert is very different from the others. It usually takes place on the second Saturday in September, and is broadcast. The concert is traditionally in a lighter style, with popular classics being followed by a series of British patriotic pieces in the second half. The Prommers have made a tradition of singing Auld Lang Syne after the end of the concert. Fancy dress is an optional extra: from dinner jackets to patriotic T-shirts. Union Flags are carried and waved by the Prommers, especially during Rule Britannia.
