The formal quinceañera dance presentation is commonly called the vals.
Vals is the Spanish word for “waltz.” In a traditional celebration, the quinceañera may dance with her father or another escort before joining a choreographed presentation with her court. The sequence can combine a conventional waltz with modern music and rehearsed movements.
The dance is a performance element, not a required religious rite. Families may choose different music, choreography, or no formal dance at all. Some celebrations use the English term waltz, while Spanish-speaking families commonly call the presentation the vals.
The vals should not be confused with every dance at the party. A quinceañera reception may include many social dances, but the vals specifically refers to the formal presentation associated with the celebrant and her court.