The Spanish name for a quinceañera’s formal first dance with her father is vals.
Vals means “waltz,” and the father-daughter waltz is one of the best-known formal moments in many quinceañera receptions. The celebrant may first dance with her father and then with other relatives or members of her court. A choreographed group performance may follow.
The dance is not required to use one particular song. Families choose music based on language, culture, religion, taste, and family history. Some celebrations replace the waltz with a different partnered dance or a contemporary routine while keeping the formal presentation.
The quinceañera vals is sometimes confused with the surprise dance, which is a separate choreographed performance often using popular music. The vals emphasizes a ceremonial family presentation; the surprise dance is typically designed as entertainment for guests.