McNicholas’s Prom date is set as May 3, 2025, the same day as the Kentucky Derby, so in true fashion, the theme of the dance is Kentucky Derby: Run for the Roses.
The dance will take place at the same venue as last year’s Viva la Prom, the Newport Syndicate. With final preparations being made, Administrative Assistant and Prom Chair, Mrs. Jenni Tumser is working to ensure all aspects of the dance run smoothly and allow students to have fun whether it be on the dance floor or playing games.
“While prom is predominantly a dance, we also have brought together prom and after prom, so there will be games, prizes, and giveaways as well as dinner and dancing,” Tumser said.
Women are expected to wear dresses that follow the dress code of other school dances. Dresses should not be cut below the bust line, expose midriffs, or have a slit exceeding mid thigh. They are allowed to be backless as long as the dress is not cut below the navel. To bring the Kentucky Derby theme to life, students are encouraged to wear derby hats, or fascinators, and accessorize in true Kentucky Derby fashion.
Men are expected to wear a suit or tuxedo, and should avoid any casual clothing such as polos, jeans, and turtle necks. Tuxedos and suits outside of the classic black theme are highly encouraged so the night enhances the Run for the Roses theme.
Students interested in renting tuxedos are able to find a coupon in the main office for $50 off through Mr. Tuxedo. Folchi’s Formal wear also visited lunches on Tuesday April 8, 2025, to help students prepare for the grand event.
“If they [students] went on the derby site they would be able to see different types of derby outfits throughout the years. I would love to see the girls bring out their hats and fascinators, and the boys go outside of the typical black tux theme and maybe get a little bit more lively with colors,” Tumser added. The Kentucky Derby website can be helpful when looking for any information on the Kentucky Derby, which started in 1875, but it is also helpful to know the attire and culture of the event.
Students are also able to refer back to Tumser’s email regarding dress code and are able to reach out to Tumser or Director of Student Life and math teach Mr. Bill Losekamp for any additional questions.
The dance begins at 6:00 p.m., and students are expected to arrive no later than 6:20 p.m. as dinner will be served at 6:30 p.m. The night will finish at 11:00 p.m. However, students are able to begin their departures at 10:30 p.m.
Tickets will be sold exclusively online this year for $75 as well as a credit card processing fee. Tickets will go on sale April 14, 2025, and will continue until April 21, 2025. The link will be sent out to students and there will also be a pop-up on mcnhs.org.
The McNicholas Milestone 