Damas is the common Spanish term for the female attendants in a traditional quinceañera court.
The word dama means “lady,” and damas is its plural. These attendants may participate in a formal entrance, group presentation, choreographed dance, or other parts of the reception. Their clothing is often coordinated with the event’s color scheme.
The male attendants are commonly called chambelanes, a term that may be translated as “chamberlains.” Together, the damas and chambelanes form the court of honor, while the quinceañera remains the central honoree.
Terminology and court size vary widely. Some celebrations use only close friends or relatives, while others have no formal court at all. Damas should not be confused with madrinas, who are sponsors or honored adult helpers rather than necessarily members of the young attendants’ group.