What is the traditional 15-candle presentation at a quinceañera commonly called in English?

The traditional 15-candle presentation at a quinceañera is commonly called the candle ceremony.

During this presentation, the honoree may light or present candles connected with important people in her life. The number 15 reflects the birthday being celebrated. Families often dedicate candles to parents, grandparents, siblings, relatives, friends, or mentors, although the exact arrangement varies.

The ceremony is a modern symbolic custom rather than a single universal rite. Some families use a speech, a brief dedication, or a candle-lighting sequence; others replace candles with another symbolic presentation. Safety considerations also lead venues to use battery-operated lights.

The practice is sometimes confused with the exchange of shoes or other quinceañera customs. These rituals can appear together, but they represent different moments and have different names. No one candle list is required everywhere.