When Is Mother’s Day? Understanding Its Date and History

Mother’s Day is one of the most cherished occasions worldwide—a special time set aside to honor and appreciate mothers, mother figures, and maternal bonds. Across the globe, people celebrate this heartfelt day by showing gratitude through gifts, messages, and acts of kindness. But despite being such a universally recognized holiday, many wonder, “When is Mother’s Day?” The answer is surprisingly complex because the date varies by country, cultural tradition, and sometimes even by region.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the history and origin of Mother’s Day, break down when Mother’s Day falls in different parts of the world, examine how it is celebrated, and share ideas for ways you can honor your mom(s) whenever the day arrives. By the time you finish reading, you’ll have all the knowledge you need to prepare for and appreciate this meaningful holiday.

The Origins of Mother’s Day: More Than Just a Date

To understand when Mother’s Day is celebrated, it helps to first look back at where the holiday began and why. The modern Mother’s Day as we recognize it today grew largely out of 19th and early 20th-century efforts to honor motherhood and promote peace, compassion, and family unity.

Early Recognitions of Motherhood

Expressions of love toward mothers date back thousands of years. Ancient Greeks and Romans held festivals honoring mother goddesses, such as Rhea and Cybele. In Christianity, “Mothering Sunday” was celebrated in parts of Europe as early as the 16th century, where the faithful would return to their “mother church” and also honor their own mothers.

However, these religious observances had little to do with a general, secular holiday dedicated exclusively to mothers.

Anna Jarvis and the Birth of Modern Mother’s Day

The Mother’s Day we know today owes much to one woman, Anna Jarvis, from the United States. After watching her mother work to unite peace movements and help wounded soldiers during the Civil War, Anna wanted to create a day honoring all mothers for their sacrifices and love.

In 1908, she organized the first official Mother’s Day ceremony at a church in West Virginia. After years of campaigning, her persistence paid off when President Woodrow Wilson officially designated the second Sunday in May as Mother’s Day in 1914.

Why the Date Is the Second Sunday in May (In Many Countries)

The choice of the second Sunday in May was partly influenced by the timing of Anna Jarvis’s mother’s passing (May 9) and the closeness to springtime—traditionally associated with renewal and life. The date stuck in the United States and has been adopted by many other countries.

When Is Mother’s Day Around the World?

Here’s where it gets interesting. Mother’s Day is not celebrated on the same date everywhere due to historical, cultural, and religious differences. Below is a country-by-country breakdown of when and how Mother’s Day occurs globally.

1. United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Much of Europe

• Date: Second Sunday in May

• Typical Celebrations: Giving cards, flowers (especially carnations), gifts, and family gatherings. Many children take their mothers out for brunch or dinner. Schools often hold special programs to honor moms.

2. United Kingdom, Ireland, and Some Commonwealth Countries

• Date: Mothering Sunday, celebrated on the fourth Sunday of Lent, usually falling in March or early April.

• Background: Rooted in the Christian tradition, Mothering Sunday originally involved returning to one’s “mother church.” Over time, it merged with honoring mothers and now features giving flowers and “mothering cakes” like Simnel cake.

3. Mexico, El Salvador, Guatemala, and Other Latin American Countries

• Date: May 10 (fixed day)

• Celebrations: This date is fixed regardless of the day of the week. Festivities include serenades, church services, and family meals. In many places, it’s one of the biggest holidays, often comparable in importance to Christmas.

4. Arab Countries (Egypt, Saudi Arabia, UAE)

• Date: March 21, coinciding with the vernal equinox and the start of spring.

• Significance: The day symbolizes new life and growth, aligning with the themes of motherhood and renewal.

5. Russia, Ukraine, and Other Post-Soviet States

• Date: March 8, International Women’s Day.

• Linkage: Since mothers are celebrated as the core of family and women, International Women’s Day doubles as Mother’s Day.

6. Thailand

• Date: August 12, the birthday of Queen Sirikit, the “Mother of all Thais.”

• Tradition: Thai people celebrate their queen and mothers by giving jasmine flowers and paying respects.

7. France and Belgium

• Date: Usually the last Sunday in May (or first Sunday in June if Pentecost conflicts)

• Background: Known as “Fête des mères,” it was instituted officially in the 1950s.

8. Ethiopia

• Date: Falls in the fall, lasting for three days at the end of the rainy season.

• Celebrations: Known as “Antrosht,” families gather to enjoy traditional meals and sing.

Summary Table of Dates

Why the Different Dates?

Cultural and religious traditions heavily influence when Mother’s Day is observed:

• Religious calendars: Countries with Christian roots often align Mothering Sunday with Lent.

• Historical figures: Thailand honors its queen rather than the generic concept of motherhood.

• Seasonal symbolism: Spring-related dates (March 21) emphasize rebirth and life.

• Political or cultural events: International Women’s Day stands in for Mother’s Day in some countries.

Understanding the particular context behind the date can deepen your appreciation for Mother’s Day as more than a commercial holiday, but rather a day steeped in meaning unique to each culture.

How Is Mother’s Day Celebrated?

Though the date changes, many traditions surrounding Mother’s Day have common threads globally:

Gift-Giving

• Flowers are classic gifts almost everywhere. Carnations are especially symbolic in the U.S. and Canada.

• Personalized items — jewelry, handwritten cards, photo albums.

• Special treats — chocolates, beauty products, homemade meals.

Family Gatherings

Most people use the day to come together with their mother, children, and extended family. Brunch, dinners, or picnics are common ways to celebrate.

Acts of Service

Helping with chores, giving moms a “day off,” or pampering her with spa treatments communicate love beyond just flowers and gifts.

Religious Observances

In some countries, church services or blessings are central to the celebration. For example, in Mexico and Latin America, church mass and prayers honoring mothers occur regularly.

Public and Commercial Celebrations

• Many schools host special performances or crafts activities.

• Restaurants often have special menus or promotions.

• Retailers offer themed sales and Mother’s Day cards.

Tips for Celebrating Mother’s Day, No Matter the Date

If you want to make your mom feel truly appreciated—whenever her country celebrates Mother’s Day—here are some time-tested ideas.

1. Plan Ahead

Mark your calendar based on your country’s tradition, or if you have family abroad, be mindful of their date. Don’t leave buying gifts or cards to the last minute to avoid stress and limited choices.

2. Personalize Your Gesture

Think about what matters most to her. A quiet day, quality time, a thoughtful note, or a surprise party?

3. Include Everyone

Mother’s Day also honors grandmothers, stepmothers, foster mothers, and anyone fulfilling a caring maternal role. It’s a wonderful chance to reach out beyond just your immediate family.

4. Embrace Virtual Connections

If you’re far away, a video call or digital greeting card can bridge the distance. Many apps now offer beautifully designed e-cards with customizable messages.

5. Make It a Year-Round Value

Mother’s Day shouldn’t be the only time moms feel appreciated. Little surprises and acts of kindness throughout the year really add up.

Special Cases & Fun Facts

• Single Fathers Raising Children: While Mother’s Day traditionally celebrates mothers, many families now honor dads who’ve assumed those roles.

• Commercialization: Anna Jarvis herself was disheartened by how commercial the day became; she preferred a quiet and sincere appreciation instead of cards and gifts.

• Mother’s Day vs. International Women’s Day: While both celebrate women, Mother’s Day is exclusive to motherhood, whereas International Women’s Day is about women’s social, cultural, and political achievements.

• Mother’s Day in Schools: In many countries, children prepare crafts and recitations to perform at school—an endearing tradition that fosters gratitude from an early age.

Conclusion

So, when is Mother’s Day? The answer depends on where you live or the traditions you follow. From the second Sunday in May in the U.S. and many parts of the world, to March’s celebration in the UK or fixed annual dates like May 10 in Mexico or March 21 in Arab nations, Mother’s Day is a diverse and globally embraced holiday.

Understanding the history behind it, the varied dates, and how people celebrate around the world adds richness to this special occasion. No matter the date, Mother’s Day remains a universal opportunity to express love, thanks, and respect for those who’ve nurtured us.

So mark your calendar, honor your mom in your own heartfelt way, and keep the spirit of appreciation alive not just on one day but throughout the year.

Whether you’re asking “When is Mother’s Day?” for planning gifts, school projects, or travel, now you have a complete guide to the dates and traditions worldwide. Happy Mother’s Day — whenever you celebrate!

1. When is Mother’s Day in 2025?

Mother’s Day 2025 will be celebrated on Sunday, May 11, which is the second Sunday in May, the date observed by most countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and many others136.

2. Why does Mother’s Day change dates every year?

Mother’s Day in many countries is set as the second Sunday of May, so the exact date shifts each year depending on the calendar. This means it can fall between May 8 and May 14156.

3. Is Mother’s Day celebrated on the same day worldwide?

No. Although many countries celebrate on the second Sunday in May, others observe Mother’s Day on different dates. For example, the UK and Ireland celebrate Mothering Sunday on the fourth Sunday of Lent (usually March); many Middle Eastern countries mark it on March 21 (spring equinox), and Mexico celebrates on a fixed date, May 1016.

4. What is the origin of Mother’s Day?

Modern Mother’s Day began with Anna Jarvis in the United States in 1908, who wanted a special day to honor mothers after her own mother’s death. Her efforts led to the U.S. government establishing the second Sunday in May as a national holiday in 191413.

5. How do people typically celebrate Mother’s Day?

Common traditions include giving flowers, cards, and gifts, preparing meals or taking mothers out for brunch or dinner, spending quality family time, and sometimes attending church services. Many households also let moms have a “day off” from chores346.

6. What are some unique or creative ways to celebrate Mother’s Day in 2025?

Besides the usual gifts, people are encouraged to celebrate with things like:

• Personalized jewelry engraved with children’s initials

• Creating digital memory books with photos and voice notes

• Gift days focused on relaxation and peace, such as spa or quiet days at home

• Enrolling moms in skill-building workshops or creative classes5.

7. How can I make sure I celebrate at the right time if my family lives abroad?

Since Mother’s Day varies by country, check your family member’s country of residence and confirm their local Mother’s Day date. For example, if they live in the UK, Mother’s Day will be in early March, whereas many other countries celebrate in May6.

8. Can I send gifts or cards even if I can’t be there in person?

Absolutely. Many people send gifts via mail or online stores, or arrange digital greetings like video calls or electronic cards to connect and show appreciation despite distance.

9. How important is Mother’s Day economically?

Mother’s Day is one of the biggest gift-giving holidays globally, with billions spent on flowers, jewelry, spa treatments, and dining. The holiday is important both culturally and economically each year.

10. Why is Mother’s Day sometimes confused with International Women’s Day?

Mother’s Day specifically honors motherhood, while International Women’s Day (celebrated on March 8) recognizes broader achievements of women socially, politically, and culturally. In some countries (like Russia), International Women’s Day also serves as a day to honor mothers, but generally, the two are distinct7.