Vals is the Spanish title commonly used for the formal court dance at a quinceañera.
The word vals means “waltz.” During this part of the celebration, the honoree and selected members of her court perform a choreographed routine. The dance may be accompanied by a traditional waltz, a modern arrangement, or music chosen for personal significance.
The vals is related to the English word waltz through the same European dance tradition, although Spanish-speaking families use vals in the context of the ceremony. The routine is usually practiced before the event, sometimes with an instructor or choreographer.
Not every quinceañera includes a vals, and the dance does not have one mandatory song or choreography. Some families substitute a contemporary group performance. The important feature is the ceremonial presentation of the honoree, not a single prescribed musical composition.