I love to write about different kinds of parties so I thought it would be interesting to explore the “Filipino Debut.”
Picture courtesy of Nick Nguyen
What is a Filipino Debut? It’s actually a lot like a Quinceanera, not surprising since Spain colonized the Philipines, only it’s celebrated when a girl (called a debutante) becomes 18 instead of 15. It includes a big party, a big dress, and like a Quinceanera, the girl has her own hand-picked court of 18, 9 males and 9 females, who perform a traditional classic waltz.
Picture courtesy of Mylene Ann
There is an “18 Roses” dance where 18 males dance with her after presenting her with a single rose. Plus there is the typical “Father and Daughter Dance.”
The debutant also picks 18 “candles,” or females who have “helped light her way through life” to give short speeches of birthday wishes.
Picture courtesy of Mylene Ann
And at the end of the night, our debutante gives a short speech, too, sharing her life experience and expressing her gratitude to her beloved guests.
Picture courtesy of Bernise8
I love “coming-of-age” parties. I think they really help us make transitions through life. No wonder so many cultures have them.
