A waltz commonly begins the formal dancing at a traditional quinceañera.
The dance is often performed by the quinceañera with her father or another important escort, followed by members of the celebration’s court. In some families, the honoree and her attendants rehearse a choreographed waltz before the event.
The waltz is not a universal requirement. Modern quinceañeras may include salsa, cumbia, regional Mexican dances, pop routines, or other music chosen by the family. Even so, the formal waltz remains one of the most recognizable elements of the traditional reception.
People sometimes confuse the quinceañera waltz with a particular national dance. It is better understood as a ceremonial ballroom-style dance used for the presentation of the honoree, rather than as a uniquely Mexican or Latin American folk dance.