Quinceanera Traditions

A Quinceanera is a very important time in a girl's life. It is the tradition of celebrating the 15th birthday of a Hispanic girl, which is symbolic of her coming of age. This tradition has been going on for many years, and is still celebrated today.

Of course if you are planning a Quinceanera of your own, you probably want to know a bit about the history and traditions that surround this day. Here is a closer look at Quinceanera tradition that will help you out as you plan your own Quinceanera.

Traditionally, this celebration is all about celebrating a woman coming of age. It celebrates the journey from being a girl to becoming a mature woman. The customs of this event are all about family, God, dance, friends, food, and of course music.

According to tradition, this celebration first begins with a special religious ceremony. Once that ceremony is over, then there is a reception that is held that includes music, food, and dancing.

One part of Quinceanera tradition is for the Quinceanera to have several friends that are a part of her "Court of Honor" which are often known as the damas. This court includes special friends and family that you want to highlight and have near you on your special day.

While there are quite a few traditions that take place during this celebration, one popular and important one is known as the "Changing of the Shoes." This is a tradition when the father takes the flat shoes that you are wearing and changes them for a pair of high heels. This shows that you have gone from being a girl into a lady.

A special toast, which is called the brindis, is a tradition that occurs during the reception. This is done by guests towards the Quinceanera to offer best wishes as well as congratulations to you.

Dancing with your father is another tradition that often takes place at the Quinceanera celebration. Usually you will pick out a special song for the two of you as you dance together. This is an emotional time when your father realizes that you have become a young lady.

Another tradition that often occurs is the "Last Doll" tradition. This tradition includes you taking a special porcelain doll and giving it to your younger sister. Basically this tradition is symbolic of you giving away your last toy, which shows that you are becoming an adult and putting away toys and childish things.

The last piñata is another tradition that can be used at your Quinceanera. Usually children have piñatas for birthday celebrations. The pi?ata that you have for this celebration is the last one that you will have, which is why it is a special tradition to have at your celebration.

Cutting the cake is a tradition that you'll definitely have at your Quinceanera. You are the one that cuts the cake and you also are the one to take the very first bite of the cake as well. Traditionally the cake is made to match your dress and the theme that you have chosen for the Quinceanera as well.

The gifts that are traditionally a part of the Quinceanera are important as well. They show your acceptance by God, the church, and those in the church as being a woman. First of all is the tiara. This is a sign that you are leaving behind your childhood and accepting the adult challenges ahead.

Often you are presented with a ring or a bracelet. This is symbolic of the circle of life that never ends. Earrings are often given as well. They are to remind you to always listen to God and to make sure that you pay attention to what he says. A prayer book or rosary are special resources to help you to remember your devotion to God and a cross may be given to you as a sign of faith.

These are just a few of the traditions that often come along with a Quinceanera celebration. Today not all of the traditions still are carried out at all Quinceanera celebrations. You will want to spend some time talking to your family figuring out which traditions will be a part of your own Quinceanera.