Quinceanera Traditons

Many of the traditional gifts for the Quinceanera have a special meaning. Their honored significance relates to the Quinceanera's coming of age. These gifts are special signs of loyalty and commitment to God, family, and the community. The significance of several quinceanera accessories are listed below.

The Quinceanera Doll:   The last doll serves as a symbol that a quinceanera is no longer a child but a young woman. It serves as a symbol of maturity and it represents the last doll the young woman will recieve. Traditionally, the parents or godparents are chosen to give this important gift.   The doll is typically made out of porcelain and can vary greatly in height. Many quinceaneras choose a more traditional doll that is approximately two to three feet in height. Smaller quinceanera dolls, however, are becoming increasingly popular as quinceaneras opt to go with a smaller doll that is only one to two feet in height. Regardless of the height, the doll's dress should resemble the Quinceanera's gown and share the same colors.   During the reception, a special time is set apart to present the quinceanera with her last doll. The godparents or parents are called up to the center of the dance floor to present this very special doll. Most quinceaneras conserve this doll in thier room as decoration for a long time. It also serves as a reminder of the wonderful and spectacular quinceanera celebration she had.    This special tradition has been passed down from generation to generation. However, the last doll still remains a memorable gift today as it has been during previous generations. The presentation of a quinceanera's last doll is an imporant part of the quinceanera celebration that marks the end of childhood and the entrance to womanhood. The Quinceanera Zapatillas:    The Quinceanera celebration is a traditional ritual that marks the transition of a child to a young woman. The tradition of changing the shoes of the Quinceanera is yet another way to symbolize this change.      Prior to the day of the quinceanera, it is expected that the quinceanera has not been able to wear heel shoes. Therefore, during the church ceremony,the quinceanera traditionally wears flat shoes without any heels symbolizing her child status.      The flat shoes are then changed for heeled shoes or zapatillas at the reception during a special presentation. The changing of shoes is usually done following the presentation of the last doll and the shoes are changed either by the father or older brother of the Quinceanera.      After the shoes are changed, the Quinceanera is now ready to take the first dance of the evening as a young lady. This special tradition of changing the Quinceanera's shoes to her zapatillas is another important part of the quinceanera celebration and other way to show that the Quinceanera is no longer a girl but a young woman. Significance of Other Important Quinceanera Accessories: The Quinceanera 's Tiara - Denotes a "princess" before God and the world. Also signifies a triumph over childhood and the ability to face the challenges ahead. The Quinceanera 's Scepter - An symbol of authority and responsibility now being given to the Quinceanera. The Quinceanera 's Bracelet or Ring - Represents the neverending circle of life. It symbolizes the unending stage of womanhood and the quinceanera's abilities and future contributions. The Quinceanera 's Earrings - A reminder to listen to the word of God and the world and to always hear and respond to the world around her. The Quinceanera 's Cross or Medal - Signifies faith in God, in herself, and in the world. The Quinceanera 's Bible - Important resources to keep the word of God in the life of the Quinceanera.

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