In quinceañera customs, what is the traditional name for the ceremonial presentation of a last doll?

In quinceañera customs, the ceremonial presentation of a final childhood toy is called the last doll ceremony.

The doll symbolizes the celebrant’s childhood. Presenting it during the celebration expresses the idea that she is moving toward a more mature stage of life. In some families, a younger sibling or another child receives the doll afterward, creating a visible link between the quinceañera’s childhood and the next generation.

The ritual is not universal. Some celebrations call it the last toy ceremony, use a different symbolic gift, or leave it out entirely. Its meaning can also change: the doll may represent memories, family continuity, or the responsibilities associated with growing older.

The last doll should not be confused with the shoe-changing ceremony, in which flat shoes are replaced with high heels. Both rituals express transition, but they use different objects and carry different symbolism.