How Mother's Day is Celebrated in Cultures Around the World

Mother's Day is a global celebration, but each country has its own unique customs and traditions to honor mothers and mother figures. Here’s a florist guide to how this special day is celebrated in various cultures across the globe:

1. United States

In the U.S., Mother's Day is celebrated on the second Sunday in May. It is one of the most commercially significant holidays, with people buying flowers, greeting cards, and gifts for their mothers. The day is often marked by family gatherings, meals at restaurants, and expressions of love and gratitude. The holiday is celebrated with a strong emphasis on pampering mothers, making them feel appreciated and loved.

2. United Kingdom

In the UK, Mother's Day is celebrated on the fourth Sunday of Lent, known as "Mothering Sunday." This tradition has its roots in the church calendar, where people would return to their "mother church" for services. Over time, the celebration evolved into honoring mothers, and children would often give gifts or small tokens of appreciation. Today, it mirrors many of the American customs, with families treating mothers to flowers, cards, and meals.

3. Mexico

In Mexico, Día de las Madres (Mother’s Day) is celebrated on May 10th. It’s a deeply meaningful holiday, marked by music, singing, and family gatherings. Children often sing traditional songs like "Las Mañanitas" to their mothers, and many families host a special meal or party. Flowers are also an important part of the celebration, with bouquets given to mothers as a token of love and respect.

4. Japan

In Japan, Mother's Day is celebrated on the second Sunday of May, similar to the United States. The celebration often includes giving carnations, which are a symbol of a mother's love and sweetness. Children may also create handmade gifts, and families spend time together. Many Japanese people also express their gratitude through special meals, and some send cards or letters to show appreciation.

5. Thailand

Mother's Day in Thailand is celebrated on August 12th, which coincides with the birthday of Queen Sirikit, regarded as the "Mother of all Thai people." The celebration is marked by public displays of respect for mothers, with many people offering flowers to mothers or figures of royalty. Thai children often present their mothers with jasmine garlands, which symbolize purity and maternal love. Schools and local organizations often hold ceremonies, and it's a day for national pride as well as honoring mothers.

6. Ethiopia

In Ethiopia, Mother’s Day is celebrated during the fall with a festival called Antrosht. The celebration is part of a larger festival that involves family gatherings, feasting, and singing. The focus is on family unity, and a special meal is prepared. During this time, children express their gratitude to their mothers by bringing ingredients to contribute to the family feast. The day is more focused on community and familial bonds than commercial gifts.

7. France

In France, Fête des Mères (Mother's Day) is celebrated on the last Sunday of May (or June if Pentecost falls on the same day). While the tradition of giving flowers and gifts is common, Mother's Day in France is often celebrated with family meals, especially lunch or dinner at home. In some parts of the country, children may give homemade presents or cards, and there are even events to honor mothers in certain communities. It's a time for family to come together and show appreciation.

8. Germany

In Germany, Muttertag is celebrated on the second Sunday of May, just like in many other countries. It’s a day when children, both young and old, present their mothers with flowers, chocolates, and gifts. Many families enjoy a meal together, and it’s common for children to help with household chores. The holiday also serves as a reminder of the important role mothers play in nurturing families and society.

9. India

In India, Mother's Day is celebrated on the second Sunday of May, similar to the United States. However, due to India's rich cultural diversity, the way it is celebrated can vary. In urban areas, children often give flowers, cards, and small gifts to their mothers. In rural parts, traditional offerings such as cooking a special meal or preparing a family feast for the mother are common. Some temples also organize special prayers to honor mothers.

10. South Korea

In South Korea, 어버이날 (Eobeoinal) or Parents' Day is celebrated on May 8th, a combined celebration for both mothers and fathers. The day is marked by children giving red carnations, which symbolize love and respect, to their parents. Many families celebrate by preparing a special meal, and it is customary for children to perform respectful acts, such as bowing to show gratitude for their parents' sacrifices.

11. Brazil

In Brazil, Dia das Mães (Mother’s Day) is celebrated on the second Sunday of May. Similar to the U.S., the day is often marked by family gatherings, meals, and gifts. Many Brazilians also send flowers, and shopping malls become crowded as people buy special gifts for their mothers. Brazilian children may also give handmade gifts or offer their mothers the day off from household chores as a sign of appreciation.

12. Nigeria

In Nigeria, Mother's Day is celebrated on the second Sunday of May. It’s a time for children and family members to honor mothers and other maternal figures in their lives. People typically attend church services in the morning, and then the day is spent with family gatherings and meals. Gifts, including flowers, jewelry, and clothing, are often given to mothers to express gratitude.

13. Greece

In Greece, Mother’s Day is celebrated on the second Sunday of May. It is common for children to give flowers and handmade gifts, and many people treat their mothers to special meals at home or at restaurants. The day is dedicated to honoring mothers and celebrating the bond between mothers and their children.

14. Australia and New Zealand

In Australia and New Zealand, Mother's Day is also celebrated on the second Sunday of May, with traditions similar to those in the U.S. People typically give flowers, chocolates, and cards to their mothers. Many families enjoy a special breakfast or lunch together, and it's a time for mothers to relax and feel appreciated. Some areas also hold fundraising events for mothers in need.

Mother's Day is celebrated in a wide variety of ways across the globe, with each culture incorporating its own unique traditions and customs. While the underlying theme of honoring and showing appreciation for mothers remains universal, the specific practices — from singing songs and offering flowers to organizing special family feasts — highlight the diverse ways in which the important role of motherhood is recognized and celebrated worldwide.