The Quinceañera Ministry  provides an opportunity  for young people to deepen their commitment to their faith and profess that commitment to their family, friends, and faith community.  

Learn More About the Tradition
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Frequently Asked Questions

When should I be coming in to register?
It is the policy of the parishes that quinces register at least 6 months in advance of their desired ceremony date in order to complete formation in a timely, intentional, and prayerful manner. If you wish to register and it is less than 6 months in advance, you will need to get approval  so that we are sure our team has the capacity to support the faith formation.
​Does the young person need to complete their sacraments of initiation in order to have a Quinceañera?
In the Evanston region, the parishes require that a young person be baptized, received First Communion and Reconciliation, and at least register in Religious Education in preparation for the sacrament of Confirmation in order to be eligible to have a Quinceañera ceremony.  If you have not received the sacrament of Confirmation and are not registered in sacramental preparation, you must make an appointment to meet with our director to determine the intention of celebrating your Quinceañera without being fully initiated in the Catholic Church. Our director, in collaboration with the parish priest, will determine the next steps.
​What is the fee?
The fee for a Quinceañera is $500. This includes music from the parish, if desired. If you use music from outside the parish, the fee is the same. If members of the choir are requested, there is an additional fee at the discretion of the Director of Music Ministry. We ask that payments are completed no less than 12 hours prior to the ceremony. If you have questions or need to set up a plan, please contact Yolanda Salgado ysalgado@archchicago.or 847-864-1185 x241.
My daughter wants to do a Sweet 16 celebration instead of a traditional Quinceañera. Is this okay?
Yes, this is becoming common. The process is the same as what's described on the rest of this page.
Can I do a blessing during a Saturday or Sunday Mass instead of have a separate ceremony? Does doing this change the requirements?
Yes, you can do this. If you would like to have this option, please contact Yolanda Salgado ysalgado@archchicago.or 847-864-1185 x241.

In this case, your faith formation requirements would be different. You would not​ have to come 6 months in advance, however, we do recommend coming at least 3 months in advance in order to secure the date.
When is my practice?
Practices for Quinceañera ceremonies are the Thursday before the ceremony at 6:30 pm at the church where the ceremony is being celebrated. You must have finished faith formation in order to have your practice.

Parent(s)/Guardian(s), Godparent(s), quince party, and lector(s) need to be present for the practice. If you have a special circumstance and need to reschedule or have questions, please contact Yolanda Salgado at ysalgado@archchicago.org  or call 847-719-9071 x241. 
​Can I bring decorations to the church?
The only decorations that are allowed are flowers. Flowers must be natural.  No glitter, carpets, arches, etc. ​
​Who takes part in the procession during the ceremony?
Participants enter in this order:

  • Cross
  • Candles - 2
  • Chambelanes/ damas
  • Principal godparent(s) - limit of 2
  • Quinceañera
  • Parent(s)/guardian(s)
  • Clergy

Quinceañera may not process in with anyone next to her. 

Inquire About Your Dates

Contact Yolanda Salgado at ysalgado@archchicago.org or at 847-864-1185 x241 to schedule an appointment. You may also use the form below. 
Inquire Online
PLEASE NOTE: submitting the inquiry form, is not a confirmation of your requested date for your ceremony. A member of the Quinceañera Ministry Team will be in contact with you shortly to discuss the availability of your date.