What Spanish phrase names the 15th-birthday celebration commonly called a quinceañera?

The Spanish phrase for the 15th-birthday celebration commonly called a quinceañera is fiesta de quince años.

The phrase literally means “party of 15 years.” In many Spanish-speaking communities, quinceañera is used for the celebrant, while fiesta de quince años describes the celebration itself. English-language usage often uses quinceañera for both the person and the event.

The celebration can combine Catholic elements with family customs and modern party styles. In some families, a Mass or thanksgiving service comes before the reception. At the party, the honoree may enter with a court, dance a choreographed number, receive symbolic gifts, or participate in a ceremonial toast.

Terminology differs across regions. Quinceañero can identify a male celebrant, and quince may be used informally for the event. These variations do not change the central idea: a family marks a young person’s fifteenth birthday with an important communal celebration.