What is the Spanish name for the quinceañera’s 15-candle ceremony, in which candles may honor important people?

The Spanish name for the quinceañera’s 15-candle ceremony is ceremonia de las velas, meaning “ceremony of the candles.”

In this custom, the honoree may light or present candles connected with important people in her life. The fifteen candles can represent family members, friends, mentors, or other relationships. Some versions involve the honoree speaking about each person, while others use a simpler presentation.

The number fifteen relates to the honoree’s fifteen years, but the ceremony is not practiced at every quinceañera. Details differ among families and regions, including who receives a candle and whether the candles are lit individually or as part of a group presentation.

This ritual is separate from the cake and from the religious service. A candle ceremony may appear at a secular reception, a religious celebration, or not at all.