Mother's Day Throughout the World

By the time Anna Jarvis died, over 40 countries observed Mother's Day. Here's how some of them honor their mothers.

Argentina

Although most of South America observes Dia de la Madre in May, Argentina celebrates on the second Sunday in October, which puts the holiday in the southern hemisphere's spring. The custom in Argentina honors mothers with dinners, poems, and special gestures such as letters, cards, and crafts from children, and gifts from husbands.

France

Inspired by American soldiers during the first world war, France began to celebrate Mother's Day in 1918, making December 19th the official Fete de Meres in 1920. The focus in early years was to repopulate a country devastated by losses from the war. Mothers with 4 or 5 children were awarded a bronze medal, those with 6 or 7 a silver, and 8 or more a gold. This tradition was abandoned in 1945, when the government instituted the National Day of Mothers, which today is honored with a cake, candies, flowers, cards, and perfumes.

India

Hindus have long celebrated a 10-day festival in October called Durga Puja to honor their divine mother, Durga. A major event in India, families spend weeks preparing food and gifts, cleaning and decorating. A western version of Mother's Day is also officially observed on May 10th, though it is more popular in cities than in villages and rural areas.

Japan

Japanese Christians began to celebrate Haha No Hi in 1913, based on the American holiday. It grew steadily in popularity until it was banned during World War II along with all other western customs. It was taken up again after the war to help comfort mothers who had lost children. Today the Japanese celebrate Mother’s Day on the second Sunday in May with traditional foods, flowers and gifts.

Mexico

In 1922 a Mexican journalist called for a celebration of Mother's Day in Mexico, which led to widespread observance of the holiday on May 10th. In the morning, many mothers are treated to a song sung by the family, or a serenade from a hired band. A family breakfast or brunch is customary, flower and chocolates are given, and cards are sent.

England

Inspired by the United States, the traditional of a modern Mother's Day grew in Britain after the second world war. Today it is celebrated with cards and dinners in honor of mothers. Cakes, especially a glazed fruitcake known as Simnel Cake, and flowers—especially violets—are give to moms.

Canada

One of the first countries to adopt the American version of Mother's Day in 1909, Canadian customs are similar to American, with an added emphases on doing chores for mothers and preparing their supper.

Ethiopia

Celebrated in mid-fall when the rainy season ends, Antrosht is celebrated with a large family meal and a three-day celebration. The Ethiopian tradition includes dancing and songs in honor of family and heroes.

Finland

Aidipayiva traditionally begins with a morning family walk, during which the family picks flowers. Moms are then presented with the decorated bouquet and served breakfast in bed.

Italy

La Festa della Mamma is celebrated with a feast ending with a cake in the shape of a heart. Traditionally children will make something in school to bring home to their mothers, and the family will do the chores for the day.

Serbia

The most interesting Serbian ritual occurs on the Sunday prior to Mother's Day. Parents tie up their children until they promise to behave. A week later, children bring their mother until she offers them candy and treats. And a week later, the father is tied up until he promises gifts.

Sweden

In the days leading up to Sweden's Mother's Day, which is celebrated on the last Sunday in May, the Swedish Red Cross sells small plastic flowers, with proceeds given to poor mothers and their children.