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Quinceanera

Quiceaneras are a big part of Latino cultures. They are celebrated across nearly all Latin countries. In Spanish, quince means fifteen, so it is the celebration of a girl turning fifteen years old. It represents the time when a girl becomes a woman.

Unlike regular birthday parties, Quinceaneras are more formal events. They are a special time to recognize that the celebrant is getting older and more mature. They usually go very late, on average ending at 12 a.m. or later. The person celebrating their Quinceanera has a big puffy dress that is very elegant and contains detailed decorations. The dress signifies the beauty as well as the independence and responsibility of becoming a woman.

Since a Quinceanera only happens once in a girls life, family members will travel in from different states and even different countries to be there. Guests include family members, friends of the celebrant, and friends of the parents. To the left is a picture with the celebrant, Julieta, is with her brother, Matteo in a horse carriage. Three main parts of a Quinceanera that make it so unique are the intricate designs, the traditions passed down, and the delicious foods.