The Spanish term damas usually identifies the girls in a quinceañera’s ceremonial court.
Damas are often close friends, relatives, or classmates who participate in the formal entrance, coordinated dances, and other parts of the program. The word dama means “lady,” and the plural form refers to multiple female attendants.
The court’s size and composition are not fixed. Some celebrations use several damas and male attendants, while others have only a few participants or no formal court. Clothing, choreography, and titles also differ across regions and families.
Damas are sometimes confused with madrinas. Madrinas are usually female sponsors or adult supporters who may help provide items or services for the event. A court member is part of the ceremony’s youthful group, while a madrina generally has a sponsoring role.