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The sweet 16 candle ceremony is defined just as it sounds. The birthday girl lights a total of 16 candles. She lights each candle in representation of someone. These people are those who have made a difference in her life.

Each of the 16 candles holds a special meaning.

The first candle is for the girl's parents.
The second candle is for the siblings. (If there are no siblings, then this candle can represent the grandparents.)
Candles 3, 4, 5 and 6 are for the rest of the family members.
Candles 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 and 14 are for friends.
Candle 15 is for the girl's best friend or friends.
The 16th candle is for a significant guy, such as a boyfriend or good friend.
Some add a 17th candle which represents good luck.

As the teen lights each candle, she can follow in the tradition of this rite of passage, by saying aloud the names of those who are significant to her. She may also want to tell a little about how each person has made a difference in her life. For example, as she lights a candle, she can say something like, "My best friend, Jane. She has helped me through some difficult times."

Once all 16 candles are lit, the group sings Happy Birthday.

Some sweet 16 parties have a program where the sixteen influential people are listed. These people are referred to as the Court of Honor.

Resource: Lovetoknow/candles
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