What religious service often begins a traditional quinceañera celebration?

A traditional quinceañera often begins with a misa de acción de gracias, or thanksgiving Mass.

This Catholic service gives the celebration a religious setting and allows the honoree and her family to express gratitude. Depending on local customs, the Mass may include special readings, prayers, music, and a blessing for the honoree.

The service is not universal. Quinceañeras are also celebrated by families who are not Catholic, and many modern events omit the church ceremony entirely. In those cases, the reception may be the central event.

The Mass is sometimes confused with a wedding ceremony because both may involve formal clothing, attendants, flowers, and a church procession. A quinceañera Mass, however, does not create a marriage or change the honoree’s legal status. It is a thanksgiving and blessing associated with the transition to young womanhood.