Mother’s Day Traditions Around the World: From Mexico to France

Mother’s Day is a cherished holiday in the United States, filled with classic traditions like bouquets of roses, homemade cards, and special outings to honor the women who hold families together. But did you know that Mother’s Day is celebrated in unique ways all around the world?

In Mexico, Día de Las Madres is a national holiday celebrated on May 10th. Families gather for large meals with traditional dishes like mole and pozole, and mariachi bands serenade mothers, sometimes even waking them up with music. The week leading up to Mother’s Day is filled with festivals at elementary schools, where moms are invited to watch dances, plays, and songs.

In Peru, Mother’s Day, known as “Feliz Dia Mama,” is a time for families to come together at restaurants or relatives’ houses. Many Peruvians also visit cemeteries to pay respect to deceased mothers, aunts, and grandmothers, turning what may seem like a somber tradition into a joyful celebration.

In the United Kingdom, Mother’s Day is called “Mothering Sunday” and has roots in the church. Families traditionally visit their “Mother” church on the fourth Sunday of Lent to reconnect with loved ones. Today, Mothering Sunday is still celebrated on the last Sunday of Lent, with families coming together for afternoon tea and homemade cards.

Thailand celebrates Mother’s Day on August 12th, coinciding with the birthday of Queen Sirikit. The entire country joins in the celebration, with buildings adorned with images of the queen and colorful decorations. Children offer their moms white jasmine flowers as a symbol of appreciation for motherhood.

In France, Mother’s Day typically falls on the last Sunday of May. Families mark the day by offering small gifts and flower bouquets, like the Lily of the Valley. Spending quality time with loved ones is also a key part of how the French celebrate Mother’s Day.

No matter where you are in the world, Mother’s Day is a time to show appreciation for the women who play a central role in our lives. From mariachi serenades in Mexico to visits to cemeteries in Peru, each country has its own unique way of honoring mothers on this special day.