I think the school 'formal' as we call it here in Queensland originated as simply the end of year school dance. We certainly had the school dance at Heckmondwike Grammar 1956-61, and I think they had them here too. Anyway, they are nothing compared with the utter waste and madness of weddings, with struggling working people paying thousands for the dress alone.
Luckily for us, Halloween is generally ignored. Some kids make a half-hearted attempt at trick or treat, only to be greeted at the door with "what the hell are you on about?" We are not so mean ourselves and usually buy some sweets, only to eat them ourselves later.
The food is another matter - but really, we are multicultural in our eating habits, here and in England. I don't think the Americans eat curries very much, for example, and apart from the dreaded fast food chains we have our own food traditions. Some are even passed on the other way. I once read about a Yorkshireman on tour in the USA. He called at a restaurant in a Native American area and ordered 'savory pudding' only to be served a perfect Yorkshire Pud.
Kate Garroway-Care at home costs
Is there anyone who still thinks that Israel's actions in Gaza are justifiable?