“Vals” is the Spanish term commonly used for the quinceañera’s formal dance performance.
The word vals means “waltz,” the ballroom dance traditionally associated with the celebrant’s formal presentation. The quinceañera may perform it with her court, family members, or both. The choreography is often rehearsed in advance and may be presented at the reception after the entrance and meal.
“Baile” simply means dance, so it is broader than the specific traditional term. Rumba is a different family of Cuban musical and dance traditions, while zapateado emphasizes rhythmic footwork and is not the standard name for the formal quinceañera waltz.
Many modern celebrations add a second routine to contemporary music. That performance can be fast, theatrical, or influenced by pop and Latin dance, while the vals preserves the event’s formal ballroom tradition.