History of the Quinceanera

In the American culture, girls celebrate their transition into adulthood with the well-known ‘Sweet 16’. While the age of 16 is unique to this group, such a celebration is universal. For the Latin American culture, it is known as the quinceanera and celebrates the 15th birthday instead of the 16th.

The term quinceanera comes from the Spanish word for 15, quince, and year, anos. It has long been used as a rite of passage. Centuries ago, it is believed to have been used for both boys and girls. The girls were separated from the boys and educated by the elder women about their future role in society. This would then be followed by praise to their gods and the girls publicly accepting their future roles as both mothers and wives.

Eventually, this began to change once missionaries became involved. Instead of a cultural celebration, it became far more religious with the girls personally affirming their belief in God and their promise to become Christian mothers and wives. This would then be followed by a celebration within the church.

Today, however, it’s very much akin to the Jewish bat mitzvah where some religion is involved but the real celebration is what is put together by the family of the girl. These parties are typically as lavish as possible, featuring mariachi bands, feasts, huge guest lists and full stretch limos. Some families even start saving up as soon as a girl is born to make sure they can throw her a large enough party.

As for the event itself, the girl is dressed in an elaborate gown and goes through a series of traditions relating to her families beliefs. In general, however, there are a few that most quinceaneras feature. The first is a church blessing, hearkening back to the more religious celebrations. She also has an entourage of 14 damas and 14 chambelanes, male and female attendants to represent her years of life. Sometimes, a doll is involved to symbolize the passage from childhood to adulthood. The doll is either given or received. Many also change from flats into high-heeled shoes, and the first dance is typically with her father.

Though a tradition from a much older time, second-, third- and even fourth-generation Latinas continue to celebrate this cultural identifier. While the methods may change over the course of a few generations, the celebratory revels have proven that they will always remain.