Mother's Day Celebrations Vary Across the Globe

Mother's Day is a cherished holiday honoring the love, sacrifices, and contributions of mothers worldwide. However, the date and traditions surrounding this special day vary significantly from country to country. In the United States, Mother's Day is celebrated on the second Sunday of May each year, with the 2024 observance falling on May 12.

The modern American version of Mother's Day was created by Anna Jarvis in the early 20th century. In 1914, President Woodrow Wilson officially recognized the holiday by signing a proclamation designating it as a national observance. Since then,Mother's Dayhas become a beloved tradition in the U.S., with families expressing their gratitude through gifts, cards, and quality time spent together.

Across the Atlantic, the United Kingdom celebrates Mother's Day on the fourth Sunday of Lent, which is also known as Mothering Sunday. This year, Mothering Sunday fell on March 10 in the UK. The holiday's origins can be traced back to the Middle Ages when children would pick flowers as gifts for their mothers. The day also became a celebration as the fasting rules of Lent were relaxed, earning it names like Refreshment Sunday or Simnel Sunday.

In Thailand, Mother's Day is celebrated in August on the birthday of the queen. Families gather to sing songs and enjoy a large feast as part of Antrosht, a multiday celebration in Ethiopia. Mexico honors mothers with music, food, and serenades of Las Mañanitas on May 10 each year. Japanese children often give their mothers roses or red carnations, symbolizing sweetness and endurance.

France's Mother's Day, known as Fête des Mères, typically takes place at the end of May or in early June, depending on the date of Pentecost. In Brazil, large multigenerational family gatherings and performances mark the occasion. Norway's Morsdag is observed on the second Sunday in February.

Despite the varying dates and customs, the essence of Mother's Day remains the same: celebrating the unwavering love and dedication of mothers. Whether through traditional gifts like flowers and jewelry, experiential presents such as brunch or a spa day, or heartfelt gestures including handwritten letters and quality time, Mother's Day is a chance to express gratitude for the irreplaceable role mothers play in our lives.

As Mother's Day approaches, families around the world prepare to honor the women who have shaped their lives with love, guidance, and sacrifice. Though the celebrations may differ, the sentiment remains universal: a deep appreciation for the invaluable contributions of mothers everywhere.

Key Takeaways

• Mother's Day dates vary globally, but the sentiment remains universal.
• In the US, Mother's Day is on the 2nd Sunday of May, created by Anna Jarvis.
• UK celebrates Mothering Sunday on the 4th Sunday of Lent, with medieval origins.
• Other countries celebrate Mother's Day on different dates, with unique traditions.
• The essence of Mother's Day is to honor mothers' love, sacrifices, and contributions.