Damas is the Spanish word traditionally used for the female attendants in a quinceañera court.
The word damas literally means “ladies.” In a conventional court, the damas appear alongside male attendants and take part in the honoree's entrance, formal dances, photographs, and sometimes a choreographed presentation. Their clothing may be coordinated with the event's color scheme.
The court's composition is not fixed across all quinceañeras. Families may choose a smaller group, use only girls, include friends of different genders, or omit attendants altogether. The Spanish vocabulary also varies by place, and some celebrations use English terms such as “court” or “maids of honor.”
Damas are attendants, not sponsors. Sponsors are often called padrinos or madrinas and may contribute money, services, or ceremonial items. That distinction helps prevent a common mix-up between the people who perform in the court and the adults who support the event.