Mother’s Day Around the World: A Sweet Tribute to Moms Everywhere

A Global Celebration of Love: Mother’s Day Around the World

Mother’s Day is more than a date on the calendar—it’s a heartfelt celebration of the women who nurture, protect, and inspire us every day. While many of us associate this day with brunches, flowers, and handwritten cards, the truth is that Mother’s Day is honored in beautiful and diverse ways across the globe. At Ethnology, we believe in celebrating culture through sweets—and what better way to honor mom than with a gift that’s as unique as she is?

Let’s take a quick trip around the world to see how different countries recognize this special day.

Mother’s Day in the U.S.

In the United States, Mother’s Day 2025 will be celebrated on Sunday, May 11. It’s a day filled with breakfast in bed, flowers, and all things thoughtful. The tradition began in 1908 thanks to Anna Jarvis, who organized the first official celebration to honor her late mother. In 1914, President Woodrow Wilson declared it a national holiday. Ironically, Jarvis later became disillusioned by the commercialization of the day and fought to have it removed from the calendar.

Today, the holiday continues to thrive, with families going out of their way to show appreciation to moms with flowers, gifts, and quality time.

The Roots of Mother’s Day: Ancient & Religious Traditions

Before the Mother’s Day we know today, ancient cultures had their own way of honoring maternal figures. The Greeks held spring festivals in honor of Rhea, the mother of gods, while the Romans celebrated Cybele, a mother goddess, with extravagant rituals.

In Christian Europe, a version called “Mothering Sunday” emerged. Observed on the fourth Sunday of Lent, it involved returning to the “mother church” for a special service. Eventually, this religious observance shifted into a secular celebration where children would give small tokens of love to their mothers—an early echo of the modern Mother’s Day tradition.

By the 1930s and 1940s, the American version of Mother’s Day blended with these European customs, creating the widely recognized celebration we enjoy today.

Mother’s Day Around the World

No matter where you are, chances are your country honors mothers in a special way. While the dates and customs vary, the intention remains the same—making moms feel loved and appreciated.

Here’s a quick peek at how some countries celebrate:

• Mexico: Celebrated on May 10 with serenades and family feasts. “Las Mañanitas” is sung to mothers early in the morning.
• UK: Mothering Sunday falls on the fourth Sunday of Lent, blending tradition with modern gestures of love.
• Japan: Children give red or pink carnations to symbolize love and gratitude.
• Thailand: Celebrated in August on the Queen Mother’s birthday with ceremonies and white jasmine flowers.
• Ethiopia: Families gather for a multi-day celebration with food, dancing, and storytelling during the Antrosht festival.

Mother’s Day Celebrations By Country

Celebrate with Sweetness: Ethnology’s Mother’s Day Bouquet

At Ethnology, we believe that sweets can connect hearts across continents. This Mother’s Day, we’ve curated a special Mother’s Day Bouquet—a themed box full of international treats that are just as one-of-a-kind as your mom.

From delicate French chocolates to Japanese matcha cookies, this box is a delicious journey around the world. Whether your mom loves bold flavors or delicate bites, you’ll find something to make her smile.

🎁 Bonus Tip: Pair your box with a handwritten note or a framed photo for an extra personal touch.

Looking for more gift ideas? Please browse our website for themed boxes that capture different cultures and tastes. With Ethnology, gifting becomes an experience filled with flavor, joy, and discovery.