What is the Spanish name for the thanksgiving Mass often held during a quinceañera?

The story behind the answer

A quinceañera thanksgiving Mass is called a misa de acción de gracias.

The phrase literally means “Mass of thanksgiving.” In families who include a Catholic religious ceremony, the young woman attends Mass with relatives and may receive a blessing. The church service is separate from the later reception, although both may be treated as parts of one celebration.

Not every quinceañera includes a Mass. The custom varies by country, denomination, family, and level of religious observance. Some families hold a civil ceremony, a family blessing, or only a reception instead. The quinceañera tradition itself is practiced across Latin America, Spain-influenced communities, and the United States, so terminology and order can differ.

The phrase should not be confused with a wedding Mass. A quinceañera is a coming-of-age celebration, not a marriage ceremony, and the thanksgiving service does not create a marital status.

Source: Wikipedia · fact-checked Oct. 2026

Add question to a list

Choose a list to keep this question in: