What is the traditional Spanish name for the 15-candle ceremony sometimes included in a quinceañera?

Ceremonia de las 15 velas is the traditional Spanish name for the quinceañera’s 15-candle ceremony.

The phrase means “ceremony of the 15 candles.” In versions of the ritual, the honoree presents or lights candles connected with important people in her life, such as relatives, friends, or mentors. The accompanying words and participants depend on the family’s preferences.

The ceremony is not part of every quinceañera. Some families include it during the reception, while others omit it or replace it with another symbolic presentation. Its presence should therefore be treated as a common optional custom rather than a universal requirement.

The number fifteen connects the ritual to the birthday milestone. The candles are symbolic, not a required religious sacrament, and the practice may appear in celebrations with or without a church service.