Mother's Day Around the World: Dates & Traditions

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ROME - Mother's Day is a celebration observed all over the world, but each country experiences it with different dates, rituals and traditions that tell of unique cultures and ways of expressing love and gratitude. From the flowers of Japan to the serenades of Mexico, to the family feasts of Ethiopia, every gesture has a deep meaning. On this global journey we discover how the mother-child bond is honoured from New York to Tokyo, among surprising customs and universal symbols. A story that unites the world under a single, great “thank you”.

Mother's Day around the world: a universal tribute

Mother's Day around the world: dates, curious traditions and how it is celebrated from New York to Tokyo. Mother's Day is one of the most beloved celebrations in the world, a universal moment to thank the mother figure. It is not celebrated everywhere on the same day or in the same way. While Italy prepares to celebrate it on the second Sunday in May, we take a journey to discover how the world honours mothers, among flowers, ancient rituals and unique traditions. There is no single global date. While in Italy, the United States of America, Germany and Japan the celebration falls on the second Sunday in May (this year 10 May 2026), in other countries the story is different: in the United Kingdom it is celebrated on the fourth Sunday of Lent (Mothering Sunday); in France it often falls on the last Sunday of May, unless it coincides with Pentecost; in many Arab countries it is celebrated on 21 March, a symbolic date linked to the arrival of spring. In Thailand, the celebration coincides with the birthday of Queen Sirikit (12 August). The symbolic flower is jasmine, which represents pure and unconditional love. It is tradition for children to kneel at their mother's feet as a sign of respect.

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Traditions and celebrations in different countries

In Mexico, 10 May is a deeply felt occasion. Celebrations often begin with music: the traditional song “Las Mañanitas” is sung, often accompanied by mariachi bands, to gently wake the mother and begin a day of family feasts. In Ethiopia, the Antrosht festival is celebrated. Here the celebration does not last one day, but three: at the end of the rainy season, families gather for a large feast. Daughters bring vegetables and cheeses, while sons bring meat; together they prepare a traditional meal to honour mothers. In Japan, after the Second World War, the May date was adopted. It is customary to give red carnations, a symbol of strength and maternal love. Children often draw portraits of their mothers to display at school or in shopping centres.

Ideas for celebrating and meaning

Beyond the classic bouquet of flowers, here are some ideas to make Mother's Day extra special: a culinary journey: cook a typical dish from one of the countries mentioned above (perhaps a French dessert or a spicy Mexican dish); time together: more than any gift, mothers appreciate an experience. A walk in a park or an afternoon at the cinema are always winning choices; a written thought: in a digital world, a handwritten letter remains the most precious and moving gift. Whether with a jasmine in Thailand or a family lunch in Italy, the message is the same: an infinite thank you to those who gave us life. And you, how will you celebrate?

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