What Spanish-language religious service is often held as part of a Catholic quinceañera?

The Spanish-language religious service often held as part of a Catholic quinceañera is a misa de acción de gracias, or Thanksgiving Mass.

The service gives the celebrant and family an opportunity to express gratitude for the first 15 years of life and to seek guidance for the future. In communities where the tradition is strongly connected to Catholic practice, the Mass may take place before the reception and include readings, music, and a blessing.

Not every quinceañera includes a Catholic service. The celebration is practiced across religious and cultural backgrounds, and families may choose a secular ceremony, another faith tradition, or no formal service at all. Therefore, the Mass is common in Catholic contexts rather than an absolute requirement.

The phrase is sometimes shortened in English discussions to “Thanksgiving Mass.” It should not be confused with the United States holiday of Thanksgiving; here, acción de gracias refers to religious gratitude.