A quinceanera is a celebration that some Latino families in Latin America and the United States have for their 15-year-old daughters to symbolize their entry into womanhood. The celebration is traditionally a religious ceremony and a party (similar to a wedding), though modern quinceaneras may be more or less religious with a formal or less-formal party.

Quinceanera Mass

A special Catholic Mass is held for the young woman and symbolizes her dedication to God as she becomes a woman. Some communities will hold several quinceanera Masses each year, and several girls at a time will be the guests of honor at each one. A girl traditionally has a court of seven girls ("damas") and seven boys ("chambelanes") accompany her. She is escorted by her father or another respected male in her life. If the girl and her family are quite religious, the Mass will play a large role in the celebration as a whole; other girls may not have one at all, or simply make it brief.

Dresses and Symbols

A girl preparing for her quineanera may choose to be traditional, wearing a white formal gown similar to a wedding dress and a tiara, symbolizing that she is a princess before God. Other girls may choose an equally formal dress in another color. Some girls have two formal dresses: one for the Mass and another for the party reception afterward. The quineanera symbolizes a girl's movement into adulthood. The boys and girls in her "court" all wear formal suits or tuxedos and dresses. Some girls may carry a scepter to symbolize their transition to womanhood and maturity. Girls will often change their shoes as a part of the ceremony, removing a pair of flat, youthful shoes and putting on a pair of high heels.

Gifts

Quinceanera gifts are often personalized or religious in nature. Traditional gifts include a Bible, rosary, prayer book, cross and jewelry. These gifts are traditionally given by family. Some girls will receive a "last doll" as a symbol of ending childhood.

Dance

Many girls rehearse a special dance with their escorts and their courts for weeks prior to the quinceanera. The dance is a traditional waltz. The priest may offer a blessing at the start of the dance, and the girl remains the center of attention during the entire waltz. Some girls may not want to go through all the preparation it takes to master the waltz, and do what they are comfortable with. The goal of the celebration is to present a girl as a woman before God and the community, make her feel special during her ceremony and create lasting memories.

Source:

Party Costume Shop: The Beginner's Guide to Quinceanera--A Celebration of Life

Quince Girl: The Quinceanera Mystery