by 
Mother’s Day is a heartfelt occasion celebrated all around the world, though the customs, traditions, and even the dates vary across countries. While the central theme remains the same honoring and appreciating mothers for their unconditional love different cultures have their unique ways of expressing gratitude. In this blog, we’ll take a journey across continents to discover how Mother’s Day is celebrated in different countries, offering insight into both the diversity and universality of this special day.
United States
When: Second Sunday of May
How it’s celebrated:
Mother’s Day in the U.S. is a widely celebrated holiday. Children typically give their mothers gifts like flowers, cards, or handmade crafts. Many families go out for brunch, while others host small gatherings at home. Schools and churches also organize Mother’s Day programs. It’s also one of the most commercially significant holidays, with spikes in phone calls, restaurant reservations, and flower sales.
United Kingdom
When: Fourth Sunday of Lent (also called Mothering Sunday)
How it’s celebrated:
The UK celebrates Mothering Sunday with deep religious and historical roots. It originally began as a day when people returned to their “mother church” during Lent. Over time, it evolved into a celebration of mothers. Children typically gift flowers, cards, and bake a traditional Simnel cake for their mothers. Churches often hold special services dedicated to motherhood.
India
When: Second Sunday of May
How it’s celebrated:
Mother’s Day is gaining popularity in urban and semi-urban areas in India. Though not a traditional holiday, many people now celebrate it by giving cards, flowers, and gifts. Children often make handmade crafts or spend the day helping with household chores. Schools sometimes organize events to honor mothers. In some regions, older traditions like Mata Tirtha Aunshi (Mother Pilgrimage Fortnight) are still observed with rituals and offerings.
Mexico
When: May 10th
How it’s celebrated:
In Mexico, Mother’s Day, or “Día de las Madres,” is a grand celebration regardless of what day of the week it falls on. It often begins with children serenading their mothers with the song “Las Mañanitas” (a traditional Mexican birthday song). Families gather for food, mariachi performances, and special church services. Schools also host events, and it’s common for employers to give mothers time off work.
Japan
When: Second Sunday of May
How it’s celebrated:
In Japan, Mother’s Day is a peaceful and loving celebration. Children often draw pictures of their mothers and present them with red carnations, symbolizing purity and sweetness. Popular gifts include handmade crafts, cooking a special meal, or writing heartfelt letters. Stores also sell beautifully wrapped sweets and floral arrangements for the occasion.
France
When: Last Sunday of May (or first Sunday of June if it clashes with Pentecost)
How it’s celebrated:
In France, Mother’s Day is called “Fête des Mères.” It was officially established in the 20th century and is now celebrated with family meals, flowers, and gifts. Children often recite poems or create handmade presents, and families may go out to eat or enjoy a quiet day at home. It’s a warm, family-focused day rather than a commercial extravaganza.
Brazil
When: Second Sunday of May
How it’s celebrated:
Mother’s Day in Brazil is one of the most important family holidays after Christmas. Known as “Dia das Mães,” it is celebrated with church services, large family lunches, and the giving of flowers and gifts. Schools and communities host performances, and it’s a big day for retail, especially for cosmetics, clothing, and household goods.
Thailand
When: August 12th
How it’s celebrated:
In Thailand, Mother’s Day coincides with the birthday of Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother of Thailand, making it both a personal and national celebration. The day begins with ceremonies and fireworks, and the Queen is honored as the symbolic mother of the nation. Children give white jasmine flowers to their mothers, a symbol of maternal love in Thai culture.
Ethiopia
When: Varies; falls in early fall during the end of the rainy season
How it’s celebrated:
Mother’s Day in Ethiopia is part of the Antrosht festival, a three-day celebration. It involves large family gatherings where daughters traditionally bring vegetables, spices, and cheese, while sons bring meat. Together, the family cooks a traditional meal and sings and dances in honor of motherhood. It is a festive and communal event.
Egypt (and much of the Arab world)
When: March 21st (First day of Spring)
How it’s celebrated:
Mother’s Day in Egypt, and in many Arab countries, is celebrated with deep affection. Introduced by journalist Mustafa Amin in 1956, it has become a cherished day where children give their mothers flowers, cards, and heartfelt gifts. Media often broadcasts programs and songs about mothers, and schools organize events to celebrate their contributions.
Australia
When: Second Sunday of May
How it’s celebrated:
Australians celebrate Mother’s Day in a manner similar to the U.S., with cards, flowers (especially chrysanthemums), and special family meals. Community events, charity fundraisers, and Mother’s Day fun runs are popular. It’s also a busy day for phone calls and video chats, especially for families separated by distance.
Germany
When: Second Sunday of May
How it’s celebrated:
Known as “Muttertag,” Mother’s Day in Germany was first celebrated in the early 20th century. It is now a day to pamper mothers with breakfast in bed, flowers (especially roses), and family time. Though it’s not a public holiday, many stores and restaurants offer special deals, and schools may organize events for younger children.
Nigeria
When: Varies, often celebrated on Mothering Sunday (like in the UK)
How it’s celebrated:
Mother’s Day in Nigeria is a blend of religious and cultural traditions. It is typically observed in churches where mothers are honored with prayers and special songs. Children present their mothers with gifts, and families come together for a celebratory meal. Some regions also celebrate the Western-style Mother’s Day in May.
Final Thoughts
From traditional songs in Mexico to jasmine flowers in Thailand, from Simnel cake in the UK to handmade crafts in India, the global celebration of Mother’s Day is beautifully diverse. Yet, it all circles back to a universal truth the love, care, and strength of mothers are worth celebrating.
Whether it’s May, March, or August, and whether you express it through a song, a flower, or a heartfelt hug, what truly matters is the appreciation behind the gesture. By understanding how different countries celebrate Mother’s Day, we gain a greater appreciation for the universal bond of motherhood that connects us all.
