The Spanish word vals describes the father’s ceremonial dance with the quinceañera.
Vals means “waltz” in Spanish. In many celebrations, the honoree first dances with her father or another important family member before joining her court or other guests. This moment is often presented as a public expression of family affection and support.
The father-daughter dance is not identical in every quinceañera. A mother, guardian, grandparent, sibling, or other relative may take the role, especially when family circumstances differ. The music may also be a modern ballad rather than a classical waltz.
The word vals can refer broadly to the waltz portion of a quinceañera, not only to the dance with the father. A celebration may include several valses, including the court’s choreographed performance.