Latino Heritage Festival: Quinceañera Traditions and Coming of Age in America

Join the National Museum of the American Latino for a festival that explores how families and communities across the United States mark the transition to adulthood. From ritual and meaning to style and self-expression to community and memory, Coming of Age in America will feature pop-up demonstrations, a fashion show, dance lessons, and more, followed by Community Quince Celebration, an evening of music, dance and a Quinceañera cake. 

The program also features the Latino museum’s new book, My Sister’s Quinceañera, developed in partnership with Crown Random House. This event offers family fun, an evening celebration, and insight into the creativity, entrepreneurship and community life that thrive along America’s main streets. 

Registration is highly recommended. 

The museum will provide accessibility accommodations. Should you need assistance, such as ASL interpretation, please email NMALGroupReservations@si.edu with your name, the date of your program, and your request, and the museum will respond with further information. When possible, please provide two weeks' notice. 

Event Schedule:
2:00 PM — Event Begins | Live Mariachi
2:30 PM — Storytime featuring My Sister's Quinceañera
3:00 PM — Cake Decorating Workshop
4:00 PM — Storytime with The Washington Ballet
4:30 PM — Quince Photography Workshop
5:00 PM — The Washington Ballet Dance Workshop
5:30 PM — Fashion Show & Magazine Discussion
6:30 PM — Ballet Performance
7:00 PM — Live Music with Sol y Rumba
8:00 PM — DJ
8:30 PM — Event Concludes

If you turned or are turning 15 in 2026, we want you to celebrate with us. Whether you wear your dress or bring your chambelán de honor, this event honors traditions and creates memories with loved ones.