Few birthdays are as significant for teens as the one when they turn 16.  It’s a coming of age, the birthday that signifies for many teens the opportunity to drive and hold a job. For some teens, their 16th birthday has cultural or religious significance. A person’s 18th birthday is arguably the 16th birthday’s only real rival. All of that adds up to plenty of reasons to throw an awesome party, complete with some must-do Sweet 16 party traditions.

Candle-Lighting Ceremony

In the candle-lighting ceremony, the birthday girl (or boy–Sweet 16’s aren’t limited to only girls) has 16 candles to hand out to those who mean the most to them: parents, siblings, other family members, friends, their BFF, and their significant other. As they pass out the candles, they’ll usually say something about why that person is special to them or share a story or memory they share. While there are traditional candle recipients and a traditional order they’re passed out in, it’s totally fine to go with whatever feels right.

Shoe and Tiara Ceremonies

While the shoe ceremony is common at Quinceaneras, what girl doesn’t love a gorgeous pair of heels? And who doesn’t love having a tiara for their special day? In the shoe ceremony, a male family member, usually the father, presents the birthday girl with a pair of high heels on a decorative pillow before helping her into them. The tiara ceremony is similar, with a female family member, usually the mother, presenting a tiara on a decorative pillow to the birthday girl before crowning her with it. The shoe and tiara ceremonies symbolize the transition from girlhood to womanhood and can easily be combined. Shoes plus a tiara? It’s a sure way to look unforgettable.

Father-Daughter Dance

If the Sweet 16 party features dancing, kick things off with a father-daughter (or mother-son) dance. It’s a great way to celebrate the bond between father and daughter and to take a special moment to be together. Slow jazz or traditional songs are great options to dance to but don’t be afraid to pick out something different if it’s meaningful to both the parent and the child.

Whether you choose to make this party a little extra special or you decide to go all out, you can include these and many other fantastic activities in your child’s Sweet 16 birthday party. Even if you want to throw a few surprises in, remember to get some input from your teen so you have an idea of what they’d like from their party. They only turn 16 once. Make it a birthday to remember for all the right reasons.

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