What Spanish word means the quinceañera’s fifteen-candle ceremony?

The Spanish phrase ceremonia de las velas means “ceremony of the candles” and names a quinceañera’s fifteen-candle ritual.

During this ceremony, the honoree may light or present fifteen candles, often dedicating them to important people in her life. The candles can represent gratitude, remembrance, family relationships, or significant stages of her childhood.

The ritual is commonly associated with fifteen candles, but its precise format is not standardized. Some families invite relatives or friends to speak, receive candles, or participate in a presentation. Other celebrations omit the ceremony or replace it with a different symbolic moment.

The candle ritual should not be confused with the religious Mass or with the formal waltz. It is a symbolic part of the reception program and can appear in religious and secular celebrations alike.