What Spanish term describes the young men who escort a quinceañera?

The Spanish term chambelanes describes the young men who escort a quinceañera.

Chambelanes are commonly members of the court of honor. They may accompany the honoree during her entrance, take part in rehearsed dances, and stand with her during formal portions of the celebration. The singular form is chambelán, while chambelanes is the plural.

The word is especially familiar in Mexican and Mexican-American quinceañera traditions, though terminology can vary across Spanish-speaking communities. English-speaking families may simply call these participants escorts, attendants, or members of the court.

Chambelanes are not the same as padrinos. Padrinos are sponsors or supporters who may help provide ceremonial items or expenses, whereas chambelanes are members of the honoree’s attending group. A modern celebration may change the group’s size, roles, or choreography.