How Different Countries Celebrate Mother’s Day, A Little Special Thanks From Around The World

Mother’s Day is a day to show appreciation to the women who raised us and are our real-life superheroes. In more than 50 countries around the world, Mother’s Day is celebrated, however, some celebrate on different days and others have their special traditional celebrations.

In the United States, the holiday is celebrated on the second Sunday of May. The day may start with breakfast in bed, and then by presenting mothers with flowers and gifts to show appreciation. It may also consist of giving their mom a day off from cooking or cleaning. The way many countries differ in the way they celebrate makes the holiday even more special as it shows there are over 50 different ways you can honor the incredible women in your life. These are three ways different counties around the world acknowledge their moms, grandmas and any other woman who has influenced them throughout their life.

1. Ethiopia

In Ethiopia, Mother’s Day is celebrated the same day as the United States, on the second Sunday of May, however a specific celebration called “The Antrosht Festival,” occurs in early fall, typically in October. This festival is a three-day celebration dedicated to moms as their kids and family members come together bringing different foods to prepare a meat hash. To celebrate, the men sing, the women perform dances and together they tell stories about many of the family heroes.

2. Mexico

In Mexico, El Dia de la Madre is celebrated every May 10. On this day, children typically gather outside the house in the morning and sing a song to their mothers. Sometimes they may even get a full mariachi band to increase the mood. Then, flowers will be given to the mother, but the more colorful the flower is, the better. In the evening family gathers together for a feast where a traditional Mother’s Day meal “cochinita pibil,” which is a slow-roasted pork.

3. Japan

In Japan, Haha no Hi is celebrated on the second Sunday of May. The day starts with children helping their moms out with chores and buying gifts, like jewelry and kokeshi dolls. Children also make portraits of their moms in school or at home to give to them. Just like in any other country, flowers are key to the mother’s heart, so flowers are given as well. The best flower for Mother’s Day in Japan is the carnation, followed by roses, preferably red or pink which symbolize purity, sweetness, endurance, beauty and honor.

As Mother’s Day is coming up this following Sunday, try to incorporate one of these traditions from other countries to change your day a little bit. There are so many different ways you can celebrate your mom and show her the appreciation you have for everything she has accomplished for you.