A waltz is commonly performed as the formal opening dance at a quinceañera.
The waltz, or vals, is associated with the choreographed presentation of the celebrant and her court. The dancers may rehearse a sequence that begins with a formal entrance and develops into a more elaborate routine.
This is separate from the customary father-daughter dance, which is another recognizable part of many quinceañeras. The opening waltz may involve the entire court, while the father-daughter dance centers on the celebrant and her father or another chosen parental figure.
Not every modern celebration uses a traditional waltz. Families may replace it with contemporary choreography, a medley, or another dance style while retaining the idea of a formal presentation.