What is the formal Catholic thanksgiving Mass often associated with a quinceañera called?

The formal Catholic thanksgiving Mass associated with a quinceañera is called a misa de acción de gracias. The Spanish phrase means “Mass of thanksgiving.”

For Catholic families, this religious service can be held before the reception and provides an opportunity to thank God for the celebrant’s life and ask for continued guidance. The quinceañera may wear a formal dress and be accompanied by family members or a court during the service.

Not every quinceañera includes a Mass. The celebration is practiced by people with different religious beliefs, and many families choose a civil ceremony, a blessing, or only a reception. The Mass is therefore an important associated custom rather than a universal requirement. It is also different from misa de gallo, the Christmas Eve or Christmas midnight Mass celebrated in many Spanish-speaking communities.