What is the thanksgiving Mass traditionally associated with a quinceañera called in Spanish?

The thanksgiving Mass traditionally associated with a quinceañera is called a Misa de acción de gracias.

The Spanish phrase literally means “Mass of thanksgiving.” In families that observe the religious form of the tradition, the honoree may attend this Catholic service with relatives and members of the court before the reception. The ceremony gives the celebration a religious dimension and expresses gratitude for the honoree’s life and growth.

A quinceañera is not automatically a Catholic sacrament, however. The event is a cultural coming-of-age celebration, and many modern families hold only a secular ceremony or reception. Practices also differ across Latin America, the United States, and other communities.

Misa de acción de gracias should not be confused with baptism, confirmation, or marriage rites. It is a thanksgiving service connected with the birthday celebration, not a separate sacrament created by the quinceañera tradition.