A quinceañera traditionally celebrates a girl’s 15th birthday.
The Spanish word quinceañera is related to quince años, meaning “15 years.” The celebration marks a transition from childhood toward young womanhood and commonly includes a formal ceremony, family gathering, music, food, and dancing.
Customs vary greatly by country, family, religion, and budget. Some celebrations include a Catholic Mass, while others are secular parties. A dress, a court of honor, a father-daughter dance, and a ceremonial change of shoes are among traditions found in some communities, but none is universal.
The event is sometimes compared with a sweet sixteen, but the two traditions have different cultural histories. In many Latin American and Latino communities, the quinceañera remains an important family milestone, and celebrations are also held by families outside Latin America.