The usual Spanish name for the boys who serve in a quinceañera’s court is chambelanes.
Chambelanes are male attendants who may participate in the formal entrance, photographs, choreography, and waltz. In a traditional court, they appear alongside female attendants, who are commonly called damas. The number and composition of the court vary by family and region.
The term is not interchangeable with padrinos. Padrinos are sponsors or honored adult supporters who may help provide items or services, whereas chambelanes are members of the celebrant’s ceremonial court. Nor are chambelanes the same as mariachis, who are musicians hired or invited to perform.
Contemporary celebrations often make the court more flexible. A quinceañera may choose friends of different genders, omit a court, or use a smaller group. The word chambelanes therefore describes a traditional role rather than a requirement present in every modern celebration. The spelling and pronunciation can also vary slightly in English-language usage.