The infamous homecoming mums and garters play a large role in the experience one has while in high school. No where else outside of high school, or really outside of Texas for that matter, does one get to wear these flashy accessories, so why would anyone neglect their only opportunity to be able to go outside of the norm and look flashy and silly by participating in the tradition?

Reaching out from its original live chrysanthemums that usually were only worn by the Homecoming Court, homecoming mums have evolved to something out of this world. Now they’re silk flowers with ribbons and bells and whatever people throw onto them reaching all the way to their feet. It is a long living tradition in the South. High schoolers have taken to another level all over Texas ever since the 1980s, when it became more prevalent. It wouldn’t be right to suddenly eradicate such a competitive and fun tradition.

And last, but certainly not least, it is a symbol of social status. People look at others with mums and stare in awe. They are beautiful and big and eye catching, and they make people feel special. It’s something to say to others, “Why, yes, I am going to homecoming, and I can’t wait for it.”

However, it’s understandable that you may be skeptical on why it is that so many people participate in a tradition that is commonly seen as unnecessary and expensive waste of time. If you order a mum or garter, the prices normally start at around $75, and can go well past it, but it is usually well worth your time and money to either buy one or make one yourself.

Despite the fact that you may be losing a good chunk of money buying either a mum or garter, there are plenty of other reasons that outweigh that fact. It’s a fun and exciting tradition that is a big part of Texan Homecomings, and there aren’t enough cons to participating in it to justify not doing it.