A quinceañera is a traditional Latin American celebration that marks a girl's transition from childhood to womanhood on her 15th birthday. The event typically includes a religious ceremony, often a Catholic Mass, followed by a festive reception with family and friends featuring dancing, music, and food. It symbolizes the girl's coming of age and is often characterized by a beautiful gown, typically resembling a ball gown. The celebration holds cultural significance and varies in customs and practices across different regions.