What Spanish word names the quinceañera tradition of presenting the honoree with a last doll?

The quinceañera tradition of presenting the honoree with a last doll is called la última muñeca.

La última muñeca means “the last doll.” The gift symbolizes leaving childhood behind as the honoree enters a new stage of life. In some celebrations, a younger sibling or relative receives the doll, turning the presentation into a symbolic passing of childhood to the next generation.

The custom is not practiced at every quinceañera. Families may replace it with another symbolic gift, omit it entirely, or adapt the presentation to the honoree’s interests. The doll can be dressed to match the celebration, but its appearance is not standardized.

The tradition is sometimes confused with the quinceañera’s other symbolic objects, such as a tiara, a bouquet, or a Bible. Those items have different meanings and may appear in religious or formal ceremonies. La última muñeca specifically refers to the final-doll presentation.