Photo courtesy of Eneas
15th birthday party ideas for girls and this time something a little more unique. Sweet Sixteen birthday parties have been popular in the USA and Canada for several decades. A coming of age party (usually for girls) signifies a young lady’s first steps into adulthood. And while the celebrations may vary from a casual house party to a blowout black tie affair, they are generally the same. A birthday party, a milestone to be sure, but a birthday party nonetheless (not that’s there anything wrong with that!!). But there are not really any customs, rites or rituals specific to a Sweet Sixteen as associated with many other coming of age parties.
Many believe the Sweet Sixteen party evolved from the Quinceanera, a Hispanic celebration when a girl turns fifteen. While also a birthday party, the Quinceanera has both religious and cultural implications that a standard birthday doesn’t.
15th Birthday Party Ideas for Girls – What is a Quinceanera?
Quinceanera translates (almost literally) to “she who is fifteen” and is known as a girl’s coming out party, marking the transition from childhood to adulthood. And more than just a party, a traditional Quinceanera begins with a religious ceremony at her church.
Accompanied by her Court of Honor, her parents and godparents, la Quinceanera (the guest of honor) is garbed in a beautiful white gown to signify her innocence. And although customs differ from country to country, the Catholic celebration includes a thanksgiving mass. During the mass la Quinceanera is usually presented with a rosary or religious pendant by her godparents.
15th Birthday Party Ideas for Girls – Quinceanera Traditions
There are many rites that involved with a traditional Quinceanera. They may include (but are not limited to!):
The Court of Honor – Chosen from the la Quinceanera’s circle of friends and close family. The Court of Honor was traditionally comprised of 7 girls and 7 boys paired off but can be an all girl or all boy court of honor.
Changing of the Shoes – The father (or if the father is not present, a close male relative) ceremoniously changes la Quinceanera’s flat shoes to high heels. This symbolizes her transformation from a child to a young woman.
The Last Doll – Depending on the culture, the last doll may be part of the ceremony or used as a decoration. In other cultures the last doll represents the final childhood gift before entering adulthood.
15th Birthday Party Ideas for Girls – The Party
Although by definition a 15th birthday party, a Quinceanera includes the above traditions as well as some specific speeches, toasts and dancing (including a father/daughter dance and one by la Quinceanera and her court).
Once tradition has been adhered to, anything goes! Dictated by what kind of party la Quinceanera and her parents want, a Quinceanera is like many rituals, as big and grand, or as intimate and low key as the hosts and guest of honor prefer.
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