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 they are celebrated their core values are the most important. 

Worship 

It all begins with a worship service in the Sanctuary. 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 and are usually spoken by her. 

The Quinceanera Traditional Court

The Quinceanera court is made up of her closest friends.

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 usually coordinate with the rest of her traditional court. 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 at the beginning as it is very important. The song will usually be very meaningful for the dad and his daughter as she celebrates this new milestone 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 friends. It’s a rather emotional time for the family since they now see their daughter in a new light. 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 a young woman. 

Cake Cutting 

Like any great celebration, there has to be cake involved! Accompanied by her parents the quinceañera cuts the cake in front of all her guests. Just like at weddings it’s a great moment for pictures.

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. Naomi has chosen lavender or light purple for her color.

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 adulthood better rather than a pair of high heeled shoes? This gift is usually given by the parents or family members of the quinceañera 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. 

Jewelry

Gifting jewelry to a quinceañera is a reminder to keep her 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 in the eyes of God. This headpiece is lovingly placed on the young woman during the ceremony. 

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 woman, not anymore just a young girl. 

Conclusion

Everyone has different traditions for a quinceañera; in the end it is about welcoming a girl to womanhood with a celebration of her with her friends and family.

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.