The group of attendants who accompany the honoree at a quinceañera is called the corte de honor.
The phrase literally means “court of honor.” Its members may include young women called damas and young men called chambelanes, although the composition is flexible and contemporary celebrations may use attendants of different genders. They often participate in the entrance, formal photographs, choreographed dances, and other public parts of the event.
A corte de honor is not the same as the padrinos. Padrinos are sponsors who may help provide particular items or services, whereas the court is primarily the honoree’s group of attendants. Families may also choose a very small court or have no court at all.
The custom reflects the ceremonial presentation of the quinceañera to her community. Modern celebrations frequently adapt the tradition to fit the honoree’s friendships, budget, venue, and preferred style.