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

The traditional thanksgiving Mass associated with a quinceañera is called a misa de acción de gracias.

The Spanish phrase means “Mass of thanksgiving.” In Catholic communities, the service gives the family an opportunity to express gratitude and ask for blessings as the honoree reaches this milestone. It may take place before the larger reception, although practices differ among families and parishes.

The Mass is not required for every quinceañera. Some celebrations are entirely secular, while others include a different Christian service, a blessing, or no formal religious ceremony. The presence and format of the service depend on the family’s faith, location, and local custom.

The phrase should not be confused with misa de gallo, the Christmas Eve or Christmas-season “Rooster’s Mass” celebrated in many Spanish-speaking Catholic communities. A quinceañera’s thanksgiving Mass is specifically connected with gratitude for the honoree and the transition represented by her fifteenth birthday.