Coming of Age: Mexican Quinceanera fiesta
Tara A. Spears
There are parties and then there are PAR-TEES! Even among Hispanic countries, Mexico takes the coming of age celebration- the Quinceanera- to the next level. 
For those teens turning 15, this is a birthday gala that officially welcomes the honoree into adulthood. The Quinceanera is a way to embrace religious traditions, honor the family, and to be introduced into adult society. But most importantly, it’s a celebration of the teen’s transformation from a youth into an adult.
“In the Mexican culture, we never miss a baptism, a 15 birthday, a baby shower, or a wedding. You must show up!” — Eva LongoriaWhile similar to the NOTB debutante ball, the Quinceanera is celebrated at all income levels and by both young men and women. There are a couple of key components that foreigners should know:
1. It is ALWAYS a formal, fancy party- do not wear shorts even if the party is at the beach. The first time I was invited to a 15 party that was held on the beach, I wore a knee length dress. I was very embarrassed to be the only woman of any age that was not wearing a floor length gown dragging in the sand.
2. Similar to a wedding reception, the guests should give a gift. This is not a problem when you know the birthday girl but once I was friends with the grandmother without meeting the teen before the party. I had to inquire from a half dozen neighbors and friends what was appropriate to give.
Traditional Quinceanera gifts include jewelry; Google Play or Netfix prepaid cards; scented candles; make-up; bible; or a gift card, especially for a manicure or hair styling. 3. There are several traditions during the event that follow a protocol: the court, waltz, toast and cake cutting.First impressions matter: sometimes the honoree will arrive by decorated carriage or horseback and enter the reception venue to a particular song. This entrance song is the first big moment, reflecting her personality and setting the tone for the evening.
Obviously, if the song is Mexican rap vs mariachi vs banda, you can expect a lot more energy during the dance portion. If the honoree has a ‘court’ in attendance- whether seven couples or simply seven young men- they sometimes perform a specialized dance routine for the guests
One of my favorite aspects of the Quinceanera party is the waltz. This spotlight dance is an expression to the guests of who are some of the most important people in the birthday girl’s life.
The father-daughter begin the dance and then other important people such as siblings, grandparents, best friends, rotate dancing with the birthday girl. The waltz is a coming-of-age tradition that showcases the refinement and grace that girls are now expected to display in their everyday life as a young woman. 
After the formalities, it’s time to get the party started. The music shifts to upbeat, energetic songs that are crowd-pleasers and to get everyone moving and up on the dance floor. 
It wouldn’t be a fiesta without libations. Whether it’s plentiful beer, tequila or aguas fresa, the open bar provides the background for the activities. The food is where the family highlights their cultural background.
Generally, the food is buffet style presentation and it’s all about creating a connection between the food and the significance of this particular family. Ranging from appetizer arrays to full course entrees, there is sure to be a dessert table with the cake.
Every Quinceañera shines with a stunning cake at its center. Whether it is a traditional tiered masterpiece or a modern, artistic creation, the cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a symbol of the honoree’s journey into young adulthood. The cake is personalized with decorations that match the Quinceañera’s theme and colors.Interspersed with the dancing there can be several optional traditions: Changing Shoes: In this ritual, one of the parents will take off the quinceañera’s flats and replace them with elegant heels. Another tradition is La última muñeca (the last doll): The birthday girl is presented with a doll which is said to be her last doll because after turning fifteen she will be too old to play with dolls anymore.
Or El primer ramo de flores (the first flower bouquet) symbolizing the passage to adulthood. Families often pick and choose which traditions to use and which will be important to them.
Towards the end of the event, there will be a toast and cake cutting ceremony. This marks the acceptance of the young lady into adult society and winds down the festivities.
If you’re lucky enough to be invited to a Quinceanera party, don’t miss out on this fun cultural experience. It’s a beautiful celebration.
