What is the Spanish term for a quinceañera’s 15-candle ceremony, in which she honors important people?

The Spanish term for a quinceañera’s 15-candle ceremony is ceremonia de las velas.

During this symbolic ritual, the honoree may light or present candles connected with important people in her life. Family members, friends, mentors, or other loved ones can be recognized through short remarks, dedications, or presentations. The exact order and wording depend on the family.

The number 15 echoes the honoree’s fifteenth birthday. Candle ceremonies are especially useful for expressing gratitude and publicly acknowledging relationships that helped shape the celebrant’s life.

This ritual is not universal. Some families use a different number of candles, substitute another symbolic presentation, or skip the ceremony. It should also be distinguished from a religious candle rite: the quinceañera candle presentation is generally a family or reception custom, not a standardized sacrament.