Quinceanera - Sweet 15 Party

Traditionally a Latin American coming-of-age ceremony, Quinceanera is held in honor of a girl's fifteenth birthday.

quinceanera girl peach

The history of the celebration dates back to 500 B.C., when Aztecs commemorated a girl's fifteenth birthday to signify that she had reached a suitable age for motherhood.

The meaning of quinceanera has changed over time; today, these celebrations are more popular in the United States than they are in Latin America, often serving to preserve the rich Latin American culture. If a special young lady in your life is approaching her fifteenth birthday, here are a few ideas to celebrate her big transition.

Quinceanera Invitations

Quinceanera Invitations

Because sweet 15 party celebrations often have just as many guests as weddings, invitations should be sent at least three months in advance. Provide a preview of the celebration by matching invitation colors with the guest of honor's dress, or by incorporating elements of the party theme, such as castles, crowns, and coaches for a Cinderella or princess theme. Consider printing the invitations in both English and Spanish.

More Quinceanera Invitations

Traditional Ceremonies

Traditional Quinceaneras are marked with "sweet goodbye" ceremonies. Consider including some of the following traditions in your celebration:

  • Presenting the birthday girl with a final toy or doll
  • Having a last dance with Daddy
  • A shoe ceremony, where the guest of honor trades her flats for heels
  • The lighting of fifteen candles

Quinceanera Cakes

Quinceanera Cakes

An elaborate cake is quintessential for quinceanera celebrations, and the sky's the limit when it comes to designing the lavish dessert. Though these delicious cakes most often reflect the theme of the celebration, they can also be adorned with fresh flowers in colors matching the party's palette, designed to match the personality or interests of the guest of honor, or decorated in homage to Latin American history and culture.

More Birthday Cakes

quinceanera girl hot pink

As with weddings, not every young lady wants an elaborate or spectacular celebration. For quinceaneras that prefer a more private celebration, opt for a backyard party at home. Whether simple or elaborate, the sweet 15 party makes memories that will last a lifetime.

Quinceanera Dresses

Quinceanera Hairstyles

Quinceanera Themes

Quinceanera Photography

Quinceanera Party Favors

Do you have a picture and story about your quinceanera or an interesting idea for a quinceanera? Share it with us!!

Tell Us About Your Quinceanera

Did you throw a quinceanera that people raved about and are still raving about? Did you have a special theme? What did you do that made your quinceanera unforgettable? What advice would you give to someone else who is currently planning their quinceanera?

Read What Others Have Said About Quinceaneras

Click below to read about quinceaneras by other visitors to this page...

A THEME BASED PARTY WORTH REMEMBERING Not rated yet
Recently one of our family friends invited our whole family for her daughter’s birthday. She had given a special birthday invitation card with the word …

My first Quinceanera Party Not rated yet
QUINCEANERA PARTY –A DAY TO REMEMBER Last year I attended a party which was so special. It was a birthday party of my friend’s sister who turned 15 …

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