In a quinceañera, the Spanish term vals refers to a waltz.
The vals is commonly the formal dance presented by the quinceañera and members of her court. The name comes from the Spanish word for waltz, the partnered dance characterized by turning movement and triple meter. It is often performed during the reception after an entrance or presentation.
A quinceañera vals may use classical music, a specially arranged song, or a contemporary track. The choreography can be simple and traditional or highly rehearsed, depending on the family and the scale of the celebration. Some events follow it with a surprise dance in a different style.
Vals is not the name of the entire quinceañera ceremony. It identifies the dance segment. The religious service, when included, and the reception are separate parts of the event, and practices vary across communities.