Sixteen is the age in the United States when teenagers can begin driving. It's a special age. There's often a special celebration for a girl's 16th birthday— a big party called her "sweet 16". It is like a wedding reception.

About a month before the party, the girl's family sends out invitations to the guests. They must buy a special present for the birthday girl and the girl guests find good dresses to wear. A "sweet 16" present usually costs $40 to $60. This is about $20 more than the usual cost of a birthday present.

The party itself is not held at someone's house. The hostess rent a reception hall for the event. Food cake and a DJ are provided. Around 6 o'clock, guests arrive and greet the birthday girl. Then the girl and her father have a special father-daughter dance. After that, guests dance for about 30 to 45 minutes.

Then there is the most important part of the "sweet 16" party, the candle-lighting ceremony. The "sweet 16" hostess stands behind 16 unit candles, and dedicates（献给）each candle to her friends, family, and anything that she feels is important to her. A lot of crying and hugging goes on at this time.

Afterwards, people sit and eat. Most guests begin leaving around 11 o'clock.

This school year. I have been to two "sweet 16". I am one of the youngest students in my grade. I'll have to wait another year before I can have my own special "sweet 16" party. I can't wait for it!