The Spanish name for the young men traditionally serving as escorts is chambelanes.
Chambelanes are members of the quinceañera’s court, often participating in the entrance, formal photographs, and choreographed dances. In a traditional arrangement, they appear with the quinceañera and a group of damas. The court can create a formal presentation resembling an attendant group at another major celebration.
The word is not a universal label for every participant. Families may use escorts, honor attendants, or another local term, and contemporary courts can include participants of different genders. The size and composition depend on the family’s preferences and the local style of the event.
Chambelanes should also be distinguished from padrinos and madrinas. Those terms generally refer to sponsors or honorary adults who help provide items or support, while chambelanes are usually peers or young attendants who take part in the public program.