Naomi Rincon’s Quinceañera

Quinceanera Traditions

The traditions of a Quinceañera party go back centuries.  Otherwise known as quince anos or quinces, is a valued tradition that celebrates a young girls new milestone into adult hood. Unlike the American “Sweet 16” celebration, Quinceañera are celebrations for when a young woman turns 15 years old.

Rooted in Latin culture, quince celebrations are still different depending on the location and era you might have lived in. From traditional Mexico history to United States creativity, quinceaneras are performed all over the world. However, there are core values that are important. 

Worship 

Before celebration begins, the Quinceañera and her family attend a religious ceremony for blessings and faith. Entering the church, the quinceanera will be accompanied with her court as well as her family and godparents. The readings are chosen by the quinceanera she, which is usually spoken by her also. 

The Quinceanera Traditional Court

Inviting the Quinceañera closest friends is usually what the Quinceañera court consists of. Making memories during the quinceanera is what is all about, so that’s why its so important to have your friends over. 

The girls of the Quinceañera court are called “damas,” while the boys are called “chambelanes”.The damas and chambelanes will be with the quinceanera throughout the day and are usually with her until all her other guests leave. 

The outfit and dresses of the Quinceañera is usually matched coordinating with the rest of her traditional court. The reason is because the Quinceañera and her friends will probably be part of a dance number during reception! It takes a lot of dedicated practice and time to get the routine right, so it’s not an easy task to be part of the Quinceañera court!

Father-Daughter Dance

One of the most memorable moments during the quinceañera will come when the father dances with his daughter. This usually happens to open the reception event so all guests are still in attendance. The song will usually be very meaningful for the dad and his daughter as she celebrates this new milestone in her life. The dance symbolizes that the father is the first man in her life. 

The Quinceanera Toast

To honor the quinceañera on her special day, her parents and family will take the time to thank the family and friend. It’s a rather emotional time for the family since they see their daughter all grown up when saying a few words about their daughter. After the parents are all done speaking, the quinceañera will say a few words of her own. The quinceañera ‘s toast is significant because it will be the first time she is speaking as young women on her 15th birthday. 

The Waltz

Remember that dance number that the quinceanera court is supposed to do? That routine is the waltz and is usually performed in the beginning or middle of the reception. The waltz is a well-organized and elegant dance to share during the celebration. This usually happens right after the father and daughter dance, which is both a quinceanera tradition.

Cake Cutting 

Like any great celebration, there has to be cake involved! The cake cutting ceremony is not only relevant when celebrating a wedding. Accompanied by the quinceañera and her parents, she cuts the cake in front of all her guests. No matter what size cake is there, it’s a great time for every guest involved.

The Quinceanera Gown 

If it’s your birthday, of course you want to be in the spotlight! Symbolizing an “adult dress” the quinceañera tradition gown is meant to be a lavish outfit. Colors are important too since it can help be part of the coordination of the quinceañera and her family.

The birthday girl is usually the one to pick the color since it shows her personality and look of the party.

The Last Doll

The father usually gives the quinceañera a doll to symbolize leaving childish possessions in replacement for more adult items. This doesn’t mean that the daughter can’t buy dolls in the future, but rather saying her interests will move past toys. The doll will usually be dressed like the quinceañera to represent her. 

High Heels

What could symbolize adult hood better rather than a pair of high heeled shoes? This gift is usually given by the parents or family members of the quinceañera tradition to pave the way to being an adult. In retrospect, flats represent a sense of childhood, while heels is a step toward being an adult. 

Earrings

Having been gifted earrings are a reminder that it’s a way to keep the quinceañeras ears open to God and her faith. This means practicing what she preaches, as she grows older. 

Tiara

A tiara is meant to symbolize the beauty of the quinceañera girl in the eyes of God. It’s a simpler headpiece and its place on top of the head of the young women during the ceremony. This quinceañera tradition is very much alive throughout latin american cultures.

Scepter

A scepter is a symbolism of authority and a new set of responsibilities. Usually symbolizing faith and sovereignty, it shows that the daughter is a women, not anymore just a young girl. You can find scepter in very traditional quinceañera .

Conclusion

Every traditional has a symbolism in their culture no matter where they go or end up. Knowing these important quinceañera traditions is a great way to start off and discover what really makes a quinceañera special. Keeping in mind the overall celebration means you can get it done. 

if you have other questions please email laura@westpres.org.