Did you know that over 400,000 Hispanic girls celebrate their quinceanera each year in the U.S.? These events are more than just birthday parties – they’re elaborate rites of passage to celebrate the transformation from childhood to adulthood.
There are some very special and wonderful traditions that go along with the event. Keep reading to learn five interesting and fun quinceanera facts.
1. The Quinceanera Dress is the Most Important
Similar to a wedding gown, a quinceanera dress is one of the highlights of the event. Traditionally the ball gown would be white or pastel.
In more recent years, girls celebrating their quinceanera have opted for bolder colors. Many modern quinceanera dresses are bright and jewel-toned.
The dress is meant to be a direct reflection of the birthday girl and of her personality, so a lot of time and consideration is put into the dress choice.
2. Bring Your Dancing Shoes
Dancing is another main focus of any quinceanera. There are a few choreographed dances that the Quinceanera will perform. The first one she will perform with her father. This will be followed by one with her court. Afterwards, the dance floor will open to guests.
However, the tradition begins with the father of the Quinceanera changing her shoes from flats or sneakers into heels. This signifies her transition from childhood to adulthood.
An additional quinceanera fact – the guest of honor also waltzes with many of the family members present at the event during the course of the evening.
3. A Quinceanera is Filled with Fun Traditions
During the course of both the ceremony and the reception that follows, the celebrant performs several traditions that represent her transition from childhood to adulthood.
It’s a quinceanera fact that the celebrant carries a bouquet of flowers into the church which she will leave at the altar. She will carry a scepter out of the church to symbolize that she is leaving her childhood behind.
The birthday girl also receives a “Last Doll.” This too symbolizes the end of childhood and is passed down to a younger sibling.
4. Gifts Have Special Meaning
Guests who attend the Quinceanera often receive special gifts. These include capias, which are special ribbons with the birthday girl’s name and birthday on them. Guests also often receive ceramicas, small dolls, to commemorate the celebration.
The birthday girls receive crowns and tiaras that symbolize their superior morality. During the ceremony, girls will receive a bible or a rosary as a devotion and rededication to God.
Another quinceanera fact – the gift of a ring symbolizes the celebrant’s bond to her family, her community, and to God.
5. Some Traditions Never Change
While many of the older traditions of quinceaneras have changed, many have stayed the same. While some girls have done away with the religious ceremony or chosen less traditional dances, the meaning of the quinceanera and its importance in Latin culture remains the same.
A quinceanera is a way for a young lady to enter the world of adulthood surrounded by the love of her family, her friends, and her community.
Did You Enjoy These Quinceanera Facts?
As you’ve read about each of these quinceanera facts, you can see that they are wonderfully special events. If you’re getting ready to plan and celebrate your quinceanera, let us help you plan your special day.
From gorgeous dresses to stunning accessories, we have everything you need. Contact us today to start planning an amazing quinceanera everyone will remember!