During the traditional doll ceremony, a quinceañera may give up a doll.
The ritual is known as the changing of the doll, or última muñeca, meaning “last doll.” The doll represents childhood, and handing it to a younger sibling or relative symbolizes leaving that stage of life behind.
The ceremony is often paired with other coming-of-age symbols, including the changing of shoes, presentation of a tiara, and formal dances. These elements can appear together, but none is required at every celebration.
The doll ceremony also has practical and emotional meanings. Passing the doll to a younger child connects generations within the family and gives the object a continuing story. Modern families may keep the symbolism, modify it, or omit it in favor of a different personal ritual.