Celebrating Mother's Day Around the World
Mother’s Day is celebrated across the globe. (Credit: Daria Obymaha/Pexels)
Mother's Day is a global special occasion to honour mothers and motherhood. While it is recognized on the second Sunday of May in many countries, including the United States, the date and traditions vary widely worldwide.
Origins in the United States
The modern version of Mother's Day began in the United States when Anna Jarvis held a memorial for her mother on May 12, 1907. Her efforts to commemorate her mother soon led to the widespread adoption of the holiday. By 1914, it had gained such prominence that President Woodrow Wilson declared it a national holiday to be celebrated on the second Sunday of May. However, Anna Jarvis later expressed disappointment with the day's commercialization, concerned that profit-driven motives overshadowed its true purpose.
Mother's Day Around the Globe
Different cultures celebrate Mother's Day in unique ways, often reflective of their own traditions and historical contexts:
Ethiopia: In Ethiopia, Mother's Day coincides with Antrosht, a three-day festival marking the end of the rainy season in early autumn. Families reunite to enjoy a feast of vegetables, cheese, and meat, celebrating with songs and dances, reinforcing family bonds after the rainy season.
Japan: Initially aligned with the birthday of Empress Kōjun on March 6, Japan's Mother's Day was moved to the second Sunday in May 1949. The day serves as a remembrance for mothers who lost sons during World War II, with carnations commonly given as gifts, symbolizing love and gratitude.
Mexico: In Mexico, Mother's Day, or "Día de Las Madres," is celebrated with great enthusiasm on May 10th each year. Families treat their mothers to meals out, often accompanied by serenades from mariachi bands playing traditional songs such as "Las Mañanitas."
Traditional Foods
While Mother's Day is associated with various customs, certain foods hold special significance. For instance, in the United Kingdom, the Simnel cake, a fruit cake with layers of almond paste, was traditionally linked to Mothering Sunday. Although it is now more commonly associated with Easter, it remains a part of the celebration in some areas. Many churches in the UK also hold Mothering Sunday services where children receive flowers to give to their mothers, continuing the tradition of honouring motherhood with simple, heartfelt gestures.
Mother's Day remains a powerful celebration of maternal figures worldwide. It reflects rich cultural traditions and the universal appreciation for mothers' enduring love and sacrifice. Whether through feasts, flowers, or family gatherings, this day provides an opportunity to celebrate and reflect on mothers' profound impact on our lives.