In quinceañera traditions, adult sponsors who help organize or finance the celebration are commonly called padrinos.
Padrinos is the plural of padrino, a Spanish word meaning godfather or sponsor; padrinas is the corresponding feminine form. Depending on the family and region, padrinos may contribute money, clothing, jewelry, decorations, food, music, or other important parts of the event.
The role is related to sponsorship but is not identical everywhere. Some families have one pair of sponsors, while others recognize several pairs, each associated with a particular expense or ceremonial item. Participation may be symbolic, financial, or both.
Padrinos should not be confused with the quinceañera’s court. The court consists of the young attendants, while padrinos are generally adults who support the celebration. Spanish usage also varies: families may use padrinos, padrinas, or more inclusive descriptions depending on who is involved.