What is the traditional Spanish name for the religious thanksgiving Mass associated with a quinceañera?

The traditional Spanish name for a quinceañera thanksgiving Mass is Misa de Acción de Gracias.

The phrase translates as “Mass of Thanksgiving.” In Catholic families, this service gives the celebration a religious dimension and allows the quinceañera and her family to express gratitude for her life and growth. It may be held before the reception or as part of the day’s schedule.

The service is not required for every quinceañera. Some celebrations are secular, while others take place in Protestant churches, other religious settings, or no place of worship. Customs also differ between countries and individual families.

A Misa de Acción de Gracias is distinct from a wedding Mass, baptism, or confirmation. The terminology describes the thanksgiving purpose of the service rather than a separate sacrament created specifically for fifteenth birthdays.