The waltz is the traditional dance commonly performed at a quinceañera celebration.
The dance is often presented as a formal choreographed opening to the reception. The quinceañera may dance first with her father, then with other members of her court or selected guests. In Spanish, this part of the event is often called the vals.
The waltz became associated with formal European ballroom culture and was adapted into celebrations throughout Latin America. Modern quinceañeras may use a traditional waltz, a contemporary song arranged for a waltz, or a separate surprise dance with popular choreography.
A common mix-up is treating the waltz and the surprise dance as the same performance. They are usually separate: the waltz is formal and ceremonial, while the surprise dance is typically more theatrical and modern.