Corazoncitos held its third-annual Mis Quince con Cora on Saturday in the Mandela Room to spotlight the quinceañera, which marks a young girl’s transition into womanhood. The event featured performances, interactive activities and cultural food reminiscent of the nostalgic celebration.

Gold stars and crescent moons adorned the walls of the room, with pink and blue lighting cast upon a hung quinceañera gown and a full-fledged photo area was set in the corner with an LED ring light and an arched backdrop. Tables were decked out in a gold cloth with a centerpiece resembling stars hanging from fluffy clouds. An arrangement of beverages was placed at each table beside a menu and decorative party favors.

“The theme of our banquet this year was Sueños Dorados, an idea brought forward by one of our interns, [Rachel Padilla Diaz, a sophomore majoring in biology],” Michael Ramos, co-events coordinator of Corazoncitos and a junior majoring in biochemistry, wrote in an email. “The theme translates to ‘Golden Dreams’ and we found this theme to be the most impactful as it reflects the hopes and aspirations that are tied with the American dream that many immigrants pursue when immigrating to the United States, a theme that counteracts the ideals that have been pushed by the current administration.”

The event opened with an interactive scavenger hunt activity followed by a performance from Undivided, a student multicultural R&B group.

Intermission provided guests with the opportunity to line up to take photos at the designated photo backdrop and enjoy traditional food options like pollo guisado or ground beef, alongside tostones, rice or salad.

Shortly after, guests took their seats for a game of musical chairs, which had the crowd cheering along as the activity played out. An additional plate of food was awarded to the winner.

“I think quinceñeras hold a huge significance in our Latin culture,” Emily Vasquez, co-events coordinator of Corazoncitos and a sophomore majoring in philosophy, politics and law, wrote in an email. “I view it as an opportunity to celebrate a loved one and highlight how much they have grown, while simultaneously celebrating opening a new chapter of their life.”

Tropical Ecstasy, a student Caribbean dance team, took to the stage dancing to Latine and Caribbean music genres like dembow and bachata. The dancers sported white t-shirts with light-wash jeans and pink bandanas.

Vasquez shared her hopes for Mis Quince con Cora.

“As events-co, my co and I went with a different approach of the layout, script, itinerary for the banquet this year, and we think it’ll definitely be a time worth while,” Vasquez wrote. “And I’m excited to see the attendee’s reaction to our event. Like every year, I hope Mis Quince educates more people not only about our culture and traditions that are important to us, but also informs them about problems happening in our community. Our event is a perfect opportunity for people to come together to celebrate, learn, and have fun while also getting to know our organization and our mission.”

Falling in line with the night’s theme, a baile sorpresa was next on the itinerary. This section of a traditional quinceañera includes a choreographed dance featuring the birthday girl and her court, surprising the guests with an abrupt entrance and an outfit change.

E-Board members, among other performers, carried out a sequence of dances involving traditional and contemporary styles. Popular songs like “Dos Locos” by Monchy & Alexandra and “La Cumbia De La Cerveza” by Grupo Sonador amped up the crowd. The floor was then opened up for anyone who wanted to join the stage and social dance, in a segment called “La Hora Loca.”

Mikalah Ortiz, secretary of Corazoncitos and a junior double-majoring in cinema and economics, discussed the importance of showcasing the event.

“For Mis Quince con Cora, I hope attendees are able to truly experience and understand the cultural significance of a quinceañera and its importance within Latine communities,” Ortiz wrote in an email. “The event is designed to celebrate tradition, community, and joy, while fostering a space for cultural appreciation and learning. I also hope we are able to raise meaningful funds for Make the Road New York, as they support an incredible cause during especially challenging times.”