Chambelanes is a Spanish term commonly used for the young men in a quinceañera’s court of honor.
Chambelanes traditionally accompany the quinceañera during formal parts of the event, especially the entrance, photographs, and waltz. They are often friends, relatives, or classmates selected by the celebrant and family. Their clothing may coordinate with the event’s formal theme.
The term is regional and usage is not identical everywhere. Other communities may use different labels, and some celebrations use a mixed or gender-neutral group of attendants. The broader English phrase court of honor remains useful when a family does not follow the traditional division of roles.
Chambelanes are not the same as padrinos. Padrinos are sponsors or patrons who may help provide financial or ceremonial support, while chambelanes are attendants. A single person can potentially have more than one role, but the words describe different functions.