Interior of the Royal Albert Hall, London

A finale worth singing about. Last Night of the Proms

What happens when a grand classical concert lets its hair down? The Last Night of the Proms. The finale of the annual BBC Proms turns London's Royal Albert Hall into a joyful, flag-waving party, where world-class music meets quirky costumes, inflatable toys and enthusiastic singalongs.

The Proms began in 1895, and the Last Night gradually developed its distinctive traditions. Today, Prommers arrive waving Union Jacks and other flags, wearing everything from flag-covered suits to Viking helmets, and occasionally brandishing inflatable bananas or squeaky ducks. A traditional favourite, Henry Wood's 'Fantasia on British Sea-Songs' often gets the crowd stamping and whistling, while favourites including 'Jerusalem,' 'Rule, Britannia!' and Elgar's 'Land of Hope and Glory' turn the finale into one enormous chorus.

Getting a seat is another part of the ritual. One way is the five-concert ballot, which requires fans to attend at least five other Proms concerts before applying for Last Night tickets. Other options include a smaller public ballot, whole-season passes and limited day-of standing returns.