A male attendant in a quinceañera’s court of honor is called a chambelán.
The Spanish term is commonly used for the young men who accompany the celebrant during formal portions of the event. A chambelán may participate in the entrance, rehearsed waltz, group photographs, and other ceremonial activities. The principal escort is sometimes described separately as the escort or main chambelán.
The court does not have one universal size or structure. Some celebrations include several chambelanes and damas, while others use only a few attendants or no formal court at all. Families adapt the custom to their preferences, budget, and community.
Chambelán is not the same as padrino. A padrino is a sponsor or godparent-like supporter who may help provide ceremonial items or expenses, whereas a chambelán is an attendant in the celebrant’s court. The words describe different roles.