The dance that traditionally opens the choreographed reception program at many quinceañeras is the waltz.
The waltz is commonly performed by the quinceañera with her court, a group of attendants sometimes called a court of honor. The honoree may begin with her father or another escort before joining the larger choreographed sequence. This formal dance is often known in Spanish as the vals.
The practice reflects European ballroom influence on elite celebrations in Latin America, especially the importance once attached to presenting a young woman to society. Modern families frequently adapt the custom with contemporary music, themed choreography, or several contrasting dances. Because quinceañera traditions vary widely, a waltz is customary rather than mandatory. A choreographed “surprise dance” may follow it, but that modern performance should not be confused with the traditional opening vals.