About Quinceanera Celebrations
The Quinceanera is the traditional celebration of the fifteenth birthday of Hispanic females. The Quinceanera celebrates both life and also thanks to God. The Quinceanera emphasizes the transition from childhood to being an adult and young woman. Quinceanera celebrations are commonly celebrated in Mexico, South America, Central America and Latin islands in the Caribbean (such as Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic).
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History
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It is believed that the Meso-American tribes (like the Mayans and Toltecs of Mexico) had sophisticated coming of age rites of passage for their youth (both young males and females). Similar traditional celebrations were believed to have been performed in Spain as well. The conquistadors are believed to have brought this practice to Meso-America.
Features
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Most Quinceanera celebrations are held with friends and family around. The young woman chooses fifteen friends or relatives and goes inside of the Church with them, along with her parents as well as her godparents. Then the readings begin. The Quinceanera girl states a commitment and devotion to God and the Virgin Mary to live her entire life according to the teachings of Christ. Then the special blessings ensue. After the traditional ceremonial aspect is finished, there is a celebratory dinner and usually some sort of dance.
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Warning
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Quinceanera celebrations can become very costly for parents. However, a lot of families will save up to pay for the Quinceanera starting years in advance. Some Quinceanera costs include musicians, seamstresses, limousine drivers, florists, chefs, photographers, videographers and presents.
Potential
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In more recent years, more and more Hispanic boys have been partaking in their own celebrations of requesting the blessing. Boys celebrating the "Quinceanera" has been happening in the Southwestern and Western sections of the United States, but not much in Latin America itself. The traditional "Bendicion de la Quinceanera" makes no mention of boys participating in this rite of passage.
Considerations
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Though usually celebrated in the form of a large bash or "fiesta," some young women opt for celebrating their Quinceaneras with a "viaje" (journey). A couple of decades ago it was very popular for young women to travel to Paris, France or other parts of Europe for their Quinceanera. However, lately it is still usually celebrated in party format.
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