Comparing the Quinceañera and the Sweet 16 celebration, it turns out that they have many points in common but differ as well. Starting with the similarities, both developed through anterior coming of age ceremonies, and are only celebrated by girls. They both are rite of passage ceremonies, which honor the completed childhood of the girl and celebrate the beginning of the new life chapter as a woman. The girls make new experiences and have to face more responsibilities by turning 15, or in the case of America turning 16. The celebrations share several customs which are a symbol of transitioning to a woman. Furthermore, important features of both ceremonies are mostly dancing, food and having a good time with beloved people, although …show more content…
Apart from that, Sweet 16 parties are more personalized and can be very different, because they follow no certain plan. Moreover, religion plays an integral part in the mexican celebration, regarding the church mass and religious gifts, whereas in America it is not as important. It is common to celebrate with the whole family and all friends at a Quinceañera party, while in America it depends on the girl and the birthdays are often celebrated in smaller rounds. Additionally, a Sweet 16 party is usually not as formal as the celebrations in Mexico, where everybody dresses up. Regarding the music at American ceremonies, it is not as traditional as it is in Mexico. A special feature of a Quinceañera is the ending, which includes a shared breakfast the next morning. Differences referring to food would be that Mexican specialities are served at Quinceañeras and the food is partly self-made, which creates a familial atmosphere. In America, it is only cooked by the family at smaller parties. The only customs which differ are the Court of Honor, the last doll and piñatas performed in Mexico, whereas in America the candle ceremony is part of the ceremonies. All in all it can be said, that the celebrations are similar to each other and have the