Mother’s Day: A Celebration of Unconditional Love Across the Globe

Mother’s Day is more than just a date on the calendar—it’s a beautiful reminder to pause, reflect, and show appreciation for the women who have nurtured us with patience, strength, and endless love. While many of us may think of breakfast in bed or bouquets of flowers, this special day holds deeper roots and diverse traditions around the world.

Where It All Began

The modern celebration of Mother’s Day can be traced back to the early 20th century in the United States. Anna Jarvis, inspired by her own mother’s dedication to social causes, began a movement to honour mothers and their sacrifices. In 1914, her efforts led President Woodrow Wilson to declare the second Sunday in May as Mother’s Day.

Ironically, Jarvis later criticised the holiday’s commercialisation, believing that its true meaning had been lost to gift-giving and consumerism. Her original vision?

A quiet, heartfelt celebration of the woman who gave you life.

But the idea of honouring mothers is far older than Jarvis’ campaign. Throughout history and across cultures, motherhood has been celebrated in various forms—from goddess worship in ancient civilisations to religious and cultural festivals today.

How the World Celebrates Mothers

Let’s take a look at how different countries and cultures celebrate the magic of motherhood.

Philippines

Mother’s Day is widely celebrated with family reunions, gifts, and lots of food. Filipino children often give letters, flowers, and small tokens of appreciation to their mothers and grandmothers. It’s also common to honour nanays in churches and community programs.

France

Known as Fête des Mères, Mother’s Day usually falls in late May or early June. Children often recite poems, give hand-made gifts, and present flower-shaped cakes. The day is focused on simple joys and family gatherings.

Brazil

Celebrated on the second Sunday of May, much like in the U.S., Mother's Day in Brazil is a family affair filled with music, dancing, and festive meals. Many families attend church together before spending the rest of the day pampering mom.

Egypt and Other Arab Countries

In many Arab countries, including Egypt, Mother's Day is celebrated on March 21, the first day of spring. Introduced in the 1950s, it has since become a day for children to honour their mothers with gifts, songs, and public tributes.

Germany

Mothertag in Germany is observed on the second Sunday of May. While it’s become somewhat commercialised, families still make a special effort to cook meals and give flowers, especially carnations or roses, to show love and respect.

Different Dates, Same Heart

Though celebrated on different dates and in unique ways, the sentiment behind Mother’s Day is beautifully consistent worldwide: gratitude. Whether it’s a single mother juggling multiple roles, a grandmother offering wisdom and warmth, or a mother figure who stepped in when one was needed most—this day reminds us to cherish and acknowledge their powerful presence in our lives.

Honouring All Kinds of Mothers

Mother’s Day is not only for biological mothers. It’s for adoptive mothers, stepmothers, grandmothers, aunts, mentors, and any woman who has played a nurturing role in someone’s life. It’s a celebration of care, compassion, and unconditional love—traits that define motherhood in its many forms.

In Closing

Mother’s Day is a time to put love into action. Whether it’s through a simple “thank you,” a handmade card, or just sitting down to have a heartfelt conversation, it’s the thought and connection that matter most. As we celebrate this special day, may we also remember to honour and support mothers not just once a year, but every day.

Happy Mother’s Day to all the amazing women out there—you are deeply appreciated.