The traditions of a quinceanera party go back centuries.
Otherwise known as quince anos or quinces, is a valued tradition that celebrates a young girls new milestone into adulthood. Unlike the American “Sweet 16” celebration, Quinceaneras 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.
The Quinceanera Traditional Court
Inviting the quinceaneras closest friends is usually what the quinceanera court consists of. Making memories during the quinceanera is what is all about, so that’s why it’s so important to have your friends over.
The girls of the quinceanera 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 quinceanera is usually matched coordinating with the rest of her traditional court. The reason is because the quinceanera 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 quinceanera court!
Father-Daughter Dance
One of the most memorable moments during the quinceanera 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.
Fiesta Occasion
Unlike a reception, quinceaneras have an amazing celebration. This the time for guests to relax and unwind the night away. There is a variety of traditional music that is played throughout the day.
Aside from dancing the night away, there might be a surprise slide show that showcases the time of the quinceaneras early childhood. It’s an emotional moment especially for the parents as they watch their daughter grow up to the beautiful women she is.
The Quinceanera Toast
To honor the quinceanera 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 Quinceanera will say a few words of her own. The quinceanera’s toast is significant because it will be the first time she is speaking as young women on her 15th birthday.
The Quinceanera Gown
If it’s your birthday, of course you want to be in the spotlight! Symbolizing an “adult dress” the quinceanera tradition gown is meant to be a lavish outfit. Colors are important too since it can help be part of the coordination of the quinceanera and her family. The birthday girl is usually the one to pick the color since it shows her personality and look of the party.
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 quinceanera 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.