Celebrating Mother’s Day Around the World

While Mother’s Day in the U.S. is celebrated on the second Sunday of May with flowers, cards, and breakfast in bed, other cultures have their own beautiful and unique ways of honoring moms. Around the world, different countries put their own spin on this special day, each reflecting the values, traditions, and history of their people.

In Ethiopia, Mother's Day isn't just a one-day affair—it’s part of a larger celebration called Antrosht, held at the end of the rainy season in the fall. Families come together for a big feast, where daughters and sons each bring different ingredients for a traditional hash. Songs, dancing, and storytelling are all part of the tribute to mothers.

In Thailand, Mother’s Day is celebrated on August 12th, the birthday of Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother. It’s a national holiday where public ceremonies and candlelight vigils are held in her honor, and children present their mothers with jasmine flowers, a symbol of maternal love.

Mexico goes all out for El Día de las Madres on May 10th every year, no matter what day of the week it falls on. The celebration includes mariachi bands serenading moms, family gatherings, special church services, and, of course, delicious food. Many schools host programs where children perform songs and recite poems to their mothers.

In the United Kingdom, Mothering Sunday is celebrated on the fourth Sunday of Lent, usually in March. Originally a day for people to return to their "mother church" for a special service, it evolved into a more secular celebration similar to the American Mother's Day, with gifts, cards, and flowers being the norm.

In Japan, Mother's Day, or Haha no Hi, is also celebrated in May. Children often give their mothers red or pink carnations, symbolizing purity and sweetness, and sometimes cook meals or help with chores around the house. It’s a quiet, respectful celebration that focuses on gratitude.

In France, La Fête des Mères is usually celebrated on the last Sunday in May (or the first Sunday in June if Pentecost interferes). French families often treat mom to flowers and heartfelt gifts, with younger children crafting poems or handmade cards at school.

These varied traditions show that while the customs may differ, the heart of the celebration is the same—honoring the love, strength, and care of mothers. Across continents, languages, and cultures, one thing is universally understood: mothers matter.

Mother’s Day serves as a global reminder that behind every great person is often a mother (or maternal figure) who offered support, guidance, and love. Whether it’s a simple thank-you or an elaborate celebration, the important thing is to recognize and appreciate the women who gave us life—and shaped who we are.