Mothers Day Around the World: Dates, Traditions & Cultural Stories
Discover how Mothers Day is celebrated in different countries. From dates to unique traditions, explore global stories that honor mothers worldwide.
Mother’s Day is not just a Western celebration—it’s a global event filled with love, respect, and traditions that vary from country to country. While the dates and customs may differ, the sentiment remains the same: a heartfelt tribute to the women who raise, support, and nurture us. In this article, we explore Mother’s Day around the world, highlighting how different cultures celebrate the most important women in their lives.
Contents
When Is Mothers Day Around the World Celebrated?
United States, Canada & Most of Europe
In the U.S. and many Western countries, Mother’s Day is celebrated on the second Sunday of May. It was officially recognized in 1914 thanks to the efforts of Anna Jarvis, who wanted to honor her mother’s selfless dedication to family and community. The day quickly gained popularity and became a national holiday.
People typically celebrate with greeting cards, gifts, flowers (especially carnations), and family brunches.
United Kingdom (Mothering Sunday)
The UK celebrates Mother’s Day on the fourth Sunday of Lent, also known as Mothering Sunday. Historically, it was a day for people to return to their “mother church” and spend time with family. Over time, it became a broader celebration of motherhood and maternal figures.
Mexico
In Mexico, May 10 is always Mother’s Day, regardless of the weekday. The celebration is vibrant and deeply emotional. Families gather for food, music, and church services. Children often perform songs, and mariachi bands visit homes to serenade mothers.
Thailand
Thailand honors mothers on August 12, which is the birthday of Queen Sirikit, the country’s symbolic mother. The celebration includes national ceremonies and family reunions. Children gift jasmine flowers to their mothers—a symbol of unconditional love and purity.
Ethiopia (Antrosht Festival)
In Ethiopia, Mother’s Day is part of a multi-day festival called Antrosht, celebrated in October or November after the rainy season. Families prepare a feast together, and children bring ingredients to cook traditional meals. The festival includes singing, dancing, and honoring maternal ancestors.
Unique Traditions That Honor Mothers Worldwide
Japan
In Japan, children traditionally give their mothers red carnations, which symbolize love and strength. The celebration is calm and respectful, focusing on family meals and homemade gifts. Schools often organize art and letter-writing activities.
Serbia
Serbia has a unique Mother’s Day tradition: children “tie up” their mother on the morning of the holiday. She can only be untied after giving them sweets and gifts. It’s a fun, playful event that leads into Father’s Day and Children’s Day celebrations over the following weeks.
Nepal
In Nepal, Mother’s Day is known as Mata Tirtha Aunsi, which translates to “Mother Pilgrimage Day.” On this day, many people visit the Mata Tirtha pond near Kathmandu to remember and honor their deceased mothers. Living mothers receive sweets, clothes, and blessings.
India
In India, the second Sunday of May is commonly observed, influenced by Western media. However, many also link the celebration to Durga Puja, honoring goddess Durga, seen as a divine mother. The concept of matri devo bhava (Mother is God) is deeply rooted in Indian culture.
Top 5 Global Mother’s Day Dates to Remember
Mothers Day around the world
Country Date Unique Tradition
| Country | Date | Unique Tradition |
|---|---|---|
| USA/Canada | Second Sunday of May | Carnations, gifts, brunches |
| UK | Fourth Sunday of Lent | Church visits, cards, flowers |
| Mexico | May 10 | Mariachi serenades, church, feasts |
| Thailand | August 12 (Queen’s birthday) | Jasmine flowers, public ceremonies |
| Ethiopia | Varies (Oct/Nov) | Antrosht festival, family feasts |
Famous Mother’s Day Quotes Across Cultures
Mothers Day around the world
“God could not be everywhere, and therefore he made mothers.” – Jewish Proverb
“A mother is she who can take the place of all others but whose place no one else can take.” – Cardinal Meymillod
“The hand that rocks the cradle is the hand that rules the world.” – William Ross Wallace
Why Mother’s Day Matters Globally
Celebrating Mothers Day around the world serves more than just personal sentiment—it reminds us to:
- Recognize unpaid caregiving work done by mothers
- Honor both living and deceased maternal figures
- Strengthen family bonds
- Promote respect and equality for women across cultures
Conclusion
Mothers Day around the world may be celebrated on different days and in various ways across the globe, but the message is the same: gratitude and love for the women who shape our lives. Whether through a flower, a feast, or a heartfelt hug, honoring mothers connects us across cultures and continents. On our website Tracksify, you will find each and every event around the world.
Tell us in the comments—how do you celebrate Mother’s Day in your country?
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