The Spanish term for a quinceañera’s male sponsor or honorary supporter is padrino.
A padrino may help provide financial support, ceremonial items, or practical assistance for the celebration. The word literally means “godfather,” but in quinceañera planning it can describe a sponsor connected with a particular contribution or responsibility. A female sponsor is commonly called a madrina.
Padrinos are distinct from the court of honor. A chambelán is a male attendant who participates in the court, while a padrino supports the event or celebrant. One person can sometimes serve in both capacities, but the roles are not synonyms.
The sponsorship system reflects the importance of extended family, friends, and community networks in organizing a large celebration. Modern families may pay for the event themselves, use several sponsors, or skip padrinos altogether. The exact duties depend on family custom rather than a single universal ceremony.