Going to Prom vs Going to The Prom

[Uptown Swinger]

OH LOOK ANOTHER PROM THREAD....

I haven't cared about proms since the early 90s when I went.
But this year my son is going and I hear the kids saying they're going "To Prom".
In my day we said - going to "The Prom".
When did this change ... not a big deal at all but I'm interested in language, grammar and shit like dat.

When did this change ?
Is it old guys who say - The Prom ?
and younger people just say Prom ?
Which is correct ?
What do you say ?

Pics of my prom date in spoiler:

Spoiler

 

[Reyesnuthugr]

The "Prom" - What?
Oh you mean the 'ol Promenade!

OP Feller shoulda clarified

 

[Fuzzybabyducks]

I never went because to many girls wanted me and I didnt wanna go with one and make others jealous.

going to prom to answer your question

 

[JSN]

No definite article. That’s always been the case. Who would say they’re going to the cotillion unless they’re talking about a specific one out of many.

 

[HunterSdVa29]

I went to 'the prom' w/ one girl, ditched her, and stole another dude's chick

would recommend

 

[Kardashians]

I never went because to many girls wanted me and I didnt wanna go with one and make others jealous.

going to prom to answer your question

Big mistake.

Take girl to prom. Other girls get jealous. They start fighting on the dance floor over you, tearing off each other’s dresses.

You missed out son

 

[Aegon Spengler]

We always said both.