Padrinos is the Spanish word describing adult sponsors who help pay for or organize a quinceañera.
The word padrinos means godparents or sponsors, and padrinas is the feminine form. In quinceañera traditions, padrinos may contribute money, provide particular items, or assist with arrangements for the church service and reception. Their role can be practical as well as symbolic.
The exact responsibilities differ widely. One family may ask sponsors to provide the dress, cake, music, or religious articles, while another may have several sponsors sharing costs. Some celebrations use the term for relatives or family friends even when the relationship is not a formal godparent relationship.
Padrinos are not the same as the quinceañera’s court. The court consists of young attendants who participate in formal presentation and dancing; padrinos are usually adults who support the event. Modern families may reduce or replace the sponsor system altogether.