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Celebrating International Mother's Day around the world
Ma, Mom, Mummy, Maman, Mère, Mutter, Ummi, Mam…they may sound like simple words, but they hold a lifetime of meaning. A mother is often the first voice we recognise and the first person who teaches us important life lessons. That feeling exists in every language, in every country. It’s why Mother’s Day celebrations around the world feel so familiar, even when traditions look different. Some bring flowers, some share meals, some simply spend time together. But at the heart of it, the love is the same. International Mother’s Day, celebrated in many countries around the world on the second Sunday of May (10th May 2026), is a moment to pause and say thank you in whatever language feels like home. Origins of Mother’s Day Mothers have always been honoured long before the modern holiday existed. Throughout history, different cultures have found their own ways to celebrate care, protection and life. This is why the history of Mother’s Day isn’t one single story, but many. Some began in ancient traditions, others through religion and some through powerful social movements led by women. Ancient Greeks and Romans traditions Long before modern holidays, ancient civilisations honoured motherhood through religion. The Greeks celebrated Rhea, the mother of gods, with spring festivals. Similarly, Romans celebrated Cybele, known as Magna Mater, symbolising fertility and protection. These festivals were closely tied to nature, renewal and the changing seasons. People would make offerings, hold ceremonies and gather as communities to honour maternal figures. While these traditions weren’t ‘Mother’s Day’ as we know it, they show that the idea of celebrating mothers has existed for thousands of years. Early movements in the United States Modern Mother’s Day celebrations are largely shaped by efforts in the United States. In the 19th century, Ann Reeves Jarvis organised community groups to support mothers and improve child health. After the Civil War, she also led events to bring divided communities together. Her daughter, Anna Jarvis, later campaigned to honour mothers more formally. In 1908, she organised the first official celebration in West Virginia. Her efforts led to President Woodrow Wilson declaring the second Sunday of May as Mother’s Day in 1914. Interestingly, Anna Jarvis later criticised how commercial the day became. Mother’s Day traditions and celebrations around the world When you look closely, celebrating Mother’s Day around the world isn’t about grand gestures...
How Mother's Day Is Celebrated Around the World
Mother’s Day is a heartfelt celebration dedicated to honouring mothers and maternal figures. While many countries observe it on the second Sunday of May, others celebrate on fixed dates or tie it to cultural and historical events. Despite these differences, the meaning remains the same: expressing love, gratitude, and respect. Here’s how Mother’s Day is celebrated across different parts of the world. United States & Many Countries: Second Sunday of May Countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and Singapore celebrate Mother’s Day on the second Sunday of May each year. In 2026, this falls on 10 May. The day is typically marked by giving flowers, cards, and gifts, along with family meals or gatherings. Carnations are especially popular, symbolising love and appreciation. United Kingdom: Mothering Sunday Unlike the modern May celebrations, Mothering Sunday has deep historical and religious roots dating back to the 16th century. It originally referred to the tradition of visiting one’s “mother church”, the main church or cathedral in one’s region. On this day, people who worked away from home were given time off to return to their hometown churches. Over time, the religious meaning blended with family reunions, and it evolved into a day for children to honour their mothers. A traditional food associated with the day is Simnel cake, a light fruitcake with marzipan, often decorated with 11 marzipan balls representing the apostles (excluding Judas). Mexico: 10 May In Mexico, Mother’s Day is always celebrated on 10 May, regardless of the day of the week. The celebration is lively and deeply rooted in family culture. Many children serenade their mothers with songs, sometimes with mariachi bands, followed by large family gatherings and meals. Japan: Second Sunday of May Japan also celebrates Mother’s Day on the second Sunday of May, which is 10 May in 2026. A key tradition is gifting red carnations, symbolising a mother’s love and sacrifice. Children often create handmade gifts or drawings, reflecting sincerity and appreciation. Thailand: 12 August Thailand celebrates Mother’s Day on 12 August, the birthday of Queen Sirikit, who is widely regarded as the “Mother of the Nation”. The celebration is both national and cultural, combining respect for motherhood with patriotism. One of the most recognisable traditions is the offering of jasmine garlands, which symbolise purity and unconditional maternal love. Public ceremonies, parades, an...
Why Traditions Around the World Continue to Honor Mothers
Discover why global traditions honor mothers' unseen care, from Mexico's Día de las Madres to Japan's Haha no Hi, celebrating caregiving and family bonds.
When is Mother's Day 2026? Date, history, and traditions
Mother's Day 2026 is Sunday, May 10. Learn about its history, global celebrations, and if it's a federal holiday.
