What is the traditional religious ceremony sometimes held before a quinceañera reception?

A Catholic Mass is the traditional religious ceremony sometimes held before a quinceañera reception.

In families that observe the Catholic form of the tradition, the celebrant may attend a special Mass called a Misa de quince años. The service gives the birthday observance a religious setting and may include prayers, blessings, and participation by family members.

The Mass is not required for every quinceañera. Some celebrations are entirely secular, while others include a different religious service or a nonreligious ceremony. The exact order of events depends on local customs and the family’s beliefs.

A Mass should not be confused with the reception itself. The reception is the social celebration, often featuring food, music, formal dances, and speeches. In some communities the religious service and reception happen on the same day, while in others they are scheduled separately.