What Spanish religious service is commonly held as part of a traditional quinceañera?

A traditional quinceañera may include a Misa de Acción de Gracias, or thanksgiving Mass.

This Catholic service gives the family an opportunity to express gratitude and ask for blessings as the celebrant reaches an important life milestone. It is commonly held before the reception, although the order and formality vary by family, parish, and country.

The Mass is not a universal requirement. Some families hold a religious service, some choose a nonreligious ceremony, and others celebrate only with a reception. The word misa means “Mass,” while acción de gracias means “thanksgiving.”

The service should not be confused with the party itself. The reception may include formal clothing, a court of honor, a choreographed dance, speeches, and symbolic presentations. Those elements can appear alongside the Mass, but none is required in every quinceañera.