In quinceañera tradition, what is the celebrant’s formal group of attendants called?

The celebrant’s formal group of attendants is called the court of honor.

A quinceañera court of honor traditionally consists of young people selected to accompany the celebrant during the ceremony and reception. Depending on local custom, the court may include damas, or female attendants, and chambelanes, traditionally male escorts. Members may participate in the entrance, formal photographs, and a rehearsed waltz or other presentation.

The size and composition of the court are highly flexible. Some celebrations have many attendants, while others include only a few close friends or relatives. Contemporary families may use mixed-gender groups, omit the court entirely, or give the group a different name.

The court of honor is sometimes compared with a wedding party because of its ceremonial role, but the occasions are different. Its purpose is to support and present the quinceañera at a birthday rite of passage. The practice also reflects how celebrations adapt as family expectations and social customs change.