Purpose

• The Quinceañera celebration signifies a young Hispanic girl's transition from a child to a woman. After the celebration, she may begin to date, take on additional responsibilities in the household, start a job and consider marriage.
  
  

Definition

• The extravagant Quinceañera celebration received its namesake from two words; quince and años. The Spanish words mean "15" and "years" respectively.
  
  

History

• In 1521, the Spanish conquered the Aztecs, leading to an examination of traditions and cultural norms. Young women at the age of 15 had to decide if they wished to marry or devote their lives to the Christian church. If they chose marriage, the mother of the family would teach the girl how to keep a tidy house and fulfill the duties of a wife, according to BellaOnline's Hispanic Culture editor, Rebecca M. Cuevas De Caissie.
  
  

Customs

• A Mariachi band serenades the birthday girl at her home the night before her 15th birthday. Some modern Hispanic families choose to have the band lead the celebrant and her family to the church the next day parade-style, shrouded in music. Once she arrives at the church, the birthday girl sits on an ornate, lacy pillow in front of the alter. Her parents, godparents (padrinos), maids of honor (damas) and young men (chambelanes) sit by her during the readings, singing and blessings. At the conclusion of the ceremony, the girl places her bouquet on the alter in honor of the Virgin Mary, according to the website Mexconnect.
  
  At the reception, the young Hispanic woman shares her first dance, traditionally a waltz, with her father. This signifies the young woman's first dance with an adult male and the father's blessings for her to venture forth to find a mate.
  
  

Traditions

• Gifts bestowed upon the birthday girl during the religious ceremony and reception guide her into adulthood. The presentation of a tiara signifies her purity as a princess in the eyes of God. A scepter symbolizes her new-found authority as a woman and her new adult position in the family. A pair of earrings remind her to listen to the word of God and the advice of her family. A gift bracelet or ring reminds the girl of the circle of life. Finally, a personalized Bible, rosary or Prayer Book inspires her on her journey.