What are traditions of a La Quinceanera?
Today’s ceremonies embrace religious traditions, and the virtues of family and social responsibility. The custom is a celebration of the young girl (la Quinceanera), and a recognition of her journey from childhood to maturity. The celebration highlights God, family, friends, music, food, and dance. In the Mexican, Puerto Rican, Cuban, Central and South American traditions, the custom can be referred to as a Quince (XV) Años, a Quinces, or a Quinceanera. The celebration traditionally begins with a religious ceremony. A reception is held in the home or a banquet hall. The festivities include food and music, and in most, a choreographed waltz or dance performed by the Quinceanera and her court. The Quinceanera’s court can be comprised of young girls (called a Dama), young men (called Chambelán or Escorte or Galán) or a combination of both – traditionally up to 14 persons in the court, which with the Quinceanera, would total 15 young people. The Quinceanera traditionally wears a ball gown,
