Chambelanes is a Spanish word for male attendants who traditionally dance with the quinceañera.
A quinceañera’s court may include chambelanes, often alongside female attendants called damas. The group can participate in the formal waltz, escort the celebrant, and appear in coordinated clothing. The size and composition of the court vary considerably.
The term is regional and is not used identically in every Spanish-speaking community. Some families use chambelanes specifically for male attendants, while others use different local names or simply describe the participants as the court. Modern celebrations may also include mixed-gender groups or no formal court at all.
Chambelanes are not sponsors. Padrinos and madrinas are adults who may help support or organize parts of the celebration, whereas chambelanes are generally peers or young participants in the ceremonial presentation. Keeping those roles separate avoids a common vocabulary mix-up.