Mother’s Day is a special occasion to express gratitude for the unwavering support, endless sacrifices, and the warmth they bring into our homes. No matter where you are, the United States, Australia, or Latin America, this day reminds us of the unique bond between mothers and their children.
In this article, we want to honor mothers by exploring the origins of Mother’s Day and the unique traditions from around the world. We’ll also share thoughtful gift ideas to make the day even more special.
Join us in celebrating the unconditional love and strength of mothers everywhere!
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The History of Mother’s Day
Mother’s Day has its origins in the 19th century, beginning with Mrs Ann Jarvis establishing “Mother’s Friendship Day” in 1868 to help families reunite after the Civil War. Her daughter, Anna Jarvis, organized the first official Mother’s Day event to honor her mother’s work and sacrifices on May 10, 1908, in Grafton, West Virginia. Anna tirelessly campaigned for national recognition until the second Sunday of May was established as Mother’s Day in 1914 by President Woodrow Wilson.
What started as a heartfelt tribute to mothers, gained global popularity and became associated with giving gifts and cards. Over time, its meaning broadened to celebrate all forms of motherhood, not just biological ones.
However, Anna Jarvis herself opposed the commercialization of the holiday, which she felt was not its original intent.
The History of Mother’s Day in Australia
Mother’s Day in Australia began to gain popularity in the 1920s, inspired by the U.S. holiday founded by Anna Jarvis in 1908.
Janet Heyden, an Australian woman, started the tradition of giving gifts to lonely mothers in hospitals in 1924, especially choosing those affected by World War I. The first public celebration included the use of white carnations, symbolizing purity and love, and was promoted by the Methodist newspaper.
Today Australians celebrate Mother’s Day on the second Sunday in May with family gatherings, gift-giving, and honoring maternal figures as do many other countries. Although it is not a public holiday, it is celebrated across the country.
When is Mother’s Day 2025?
Mother’s Day in 2025 falls on May 11. This day occurs on the second Sunday in May. It is not a public holiday but many join in for the celebration to show appreciation for their mothers.
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When is Mother’s Day in Australia?
Mother’s Day in Australia 2025 will be celebrated on the second Sunday in May, just like in many other countries, including the United States and Canada.
While this date coincides in several nations, it is not universal. For example, Mother’s Day in the United Kingdom is on the fourth Sunday of Lent, while in Thailand, it is on August 12. France celebrates Mother’s Day on the last Sunday of May or the first Sunday of June if Pentecost falls on the same day.
How Mother’s Day Celebrations Differ Worldwide
People celebrate Mother’s Day differently around the world with diverse traditions. For example:
United States
In the United States, it is celebrated on the second Sunday of May. The holiday began in 1908 and has grown into a large celebration as years went by. Traditions include giving flowers, cards, and gifts and sharing family dinners. Phone calls to moms peak on this day. Some families attend church, where mothers receive special recognition.
Australia
In Australia, Mother’s Day is also on the second Sunday in May. A unique tradition is the wearing of carnations: red for living mothers, and white for deceased mothers.
Some Australians take part in charity events like fun runs to raise funds for causes tied to mothers or women. Schools often foster events like breakfast or craft-making for kids to give their mothers. A fun fact is that Australians give local flowers or native plants, like kangaroo paws or waratahs as gifts.
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United Kingdom
In the UK, Mother’s Day is called Mothering Sunday and is related to the Christian calendar, falling on the fourth Sunday of Lent. It began as a day for people to visit their “mother church.” Children give flowers like daffodils, cards, or small gifts to their mothers. Simnel cake, a fruitcake with marzipan, is a traditional treat. Some families attend church services together. The day is more of a religious holiday, unlike the commercialized versions elsewhere.
Ireland
In Ireland, Mother’s Day aligns with the UK, on the fourth Sunday of Lent. Unique customs from Ireland include making “Simnel cake”. Children may also pick wildflowers for their mothers. The day is less commercial than in other places, it focuses on family time and homemade gifts instead.
Canada
Canada also celebrates it on the second Sunday in May. Like in the U.S., families gather for meals, and children give handmade gifts or flowers. Some Canadians observe “Mother’s Day Weekend” with outings or short trips. It is also a common day for church services to honor mothers. Certain areas host community events like brunches or outdoor activities.
Mexico
In Mexico, Mother’s Day (Día de las Madres) takes place on May 10th. Children wake up early to serenade their mothers with “Las Mañanitas,” a traditional mariachi song.
Families gather for a meal, often featuring special foods like tamales, pozole, tacos, pastel de tres leches, and churros. People also give flowers, cards, and gifts. Mexican Mother’s Day does not change year by year.
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France
In France, Mother’s Day, or Fête des Mères, is celebrated on the last Sunday of May. Children give flowers, gifts, and cards to their mothers. A common gift is a flower arrangement, often lilies or roses. Some families participate in a special mass or organize a festive meal. Celebrations also include cakes shaped like a bouquet.
Japan
In Japan, Mother’s Day (Haha no Hi) is celebrated on the second Sunday of May. It is common for children to give carnations to their mothers. Many people also prepare meals or offer small gifts. Some children create handmade cards or crafts for their mothers. The day is not a public holiday, but it is a time to honor mothers and express appreciation.
India
Mother’s Day in India is not a national tradition. However, some regions celebrated it with local customs. For example, it is common for children to give gifts like flowers, cards, and sweets to their mothers. In some areas, people honor mothers with special prayers and rituals at temples. The day is more popular in urban centers and among younger generations.
Brazil
Brazil observes it on the second Sunday in the month of May and includes eating out with families and giving gifts, cards, and flowers. Many people attend church services, and families gather for big meals. Some cities hold public events like concerts or parades. The day is seen as a family occasion, and businesses often close early.
How is Mother’s Day in Australia Different?
Mother’s Day in Australia is celebrated on the second Sunday in May, just like in many other countries. However, some differences set it apart from others.
In Australia, the day has a strong focus on the importance of spending quality time together. This means families prefer outings, going for a barbecue, or enjoying a picnic at the beach. Outdoor activities are popular as people seize the autumn weather.
Another notable difference of Mother’s Day in Australia is that it is devoted to women who may not necessarily be biological mothers. Be they grandmothers, aunts, or close female friends, it’s a day to honor all women who provide care and nurturing.
In terms of tradition, Australians also enjoy certain foods on Mother’s Day that may be less common elsewhere. For example, morning tea or special homemade cakes with Australian flavors like pavlova or lamingtons.
In addition, some regions in Australia have special charity events or fundraisers that involve the community supporting mothers in need, such as donations to maternal health organizations or local charities.
In general, while the celebration of Mother’s Day in Australia shares some similarities with other countries, it is different because it focuses on family time, inclusivity, and community support.
Top Gift Ideas for Mother’s Day
What to get for your mother for Mother’s Day? Here are some thoughtful ideas for Mother’s Day gifts that could make your mother feel special:
- Gift Hampers: Different gifts can be included in hampers such as meat, seafood, crackers, wines, and chocolates. They give mothers both snacks and beverages to take.
- Flowers: Flowers, especially roses, lilies, and seasonal flowers, are a classic choice. It can always make any room appear brighter.
- Personalized Gifts: Customized gifts such as mugs, photo frames, or even engraved jewelry make great gifts and are unique for each mother.
- Spa and Wellness Gifts: Spa gifts such as gift baskets or spa packages so your mother can relax with massages or facials.
- High Tea or Brunch: High tea or brunch at a café or restaurant is a good idea to celebrate the occasion.
- Jewelry: Other jewelry items such as necklaces or bracelets as a lasting reminder of love.
- Tech Gadgets: Tech gadgets like smart speakers or fitness trackers make practical gifts for tech-savvy moms.
- Perfumes and Beauty Sets: Perfumes or beauty sets are also good Mother’s Day presents, something most women use frequently.
- Subscription Services: Subscription services like meal kits to book clubs and audio or video streaming platforms, to name but a few.
- Handmade or DIY Gifts: Handmade gifts or DIY gifts like baked goods or crafts show effort and time.
- Family activities and experiences to cherish together: Family activities such as breakfast in bed, picnicking, visiting spas or charity events help families to be together.
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What’s A Good Mother’s Day Present?
Finding the perfect Mother’s Day gift can feel difficult, but it doesn’t have to be. A great gift isn’t about the price, it’s about the love behind it.
Start with something personal. Think what does your mother like? Books, gardening? A simple photo frame with a favorite memory or a necklace with her initials can mean the world to her.
Next, look for a gift that is useful. Is there something she’s always wanted but never buys for herself? Maybe a cozy blanket, a fancy tea set, or even a small gadget she’ll love using. Moms rarely pamper themselves, so why not give her a reason to? A spa kit, scented candles, or even a voucher for a massage can make her feel special.
Finally, make it a surprise! Plan a fun activity or cook her favorite meal. Sometimes, the best gift is just what you didn’t expect at all!
Remember, the perfect gift doesn’t need to be expensive. The value of a gift lies in its meaning, not its cost. For instance, a heartfelt, handwritten letter can touch a mother’s heart more than any fancy item ever could. It is a perfect gift because it’s from you.
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Mother’s Day Facts and FAQs
Mother’s Day is the heaviest call day of the year
Long-distance calls increase dramatically on Mother’s Day; approximately 122 million are made annually. It is the heaviest call day of the year, even heavier than New Year’s Day. Most people call their mothers to express love and care.
Carnations are the most commonly gifted flower on Mother’s Day
Many people give bouquets of carnations to show appreciation for their mothers. This tradition has lasted for years and remains a common way to celebrate the day.
Carnations are the most popular flowers for Mother’s Day, more than other types of flowers. They symbolize love and gratitude thus they are an ideal choice. Each color has a different meaning: pink symbolizes a mother’s love, red represents deep love and admiration, white stands for purity and remembrance, yellow conveys rejection, purple is unpredictability, and striped carnations express regret or refusal of love.
Is Mother’s Day a public holiday?
Mother’s Day is not a public holiday in most countries, including the United States and Australia. Businesses and groups work as usual.
In Arizona, Mother’s Day is a state holiday, but it still falls on a Sunday, so government offices keep their usual Sunday hours.
What day is Mother’s Day in Australia?
Mother’s Day in Australia is observed on the second Sunday of May. In 2025, it will be May 11. This is a special day for families to honor motherhood with gifts, cards, and different activities. Mother’s Day is not a public holiday in Australia but many people spare time and give their mothers gifts in recognition of their work.
What are some good First Mother’s Day gifts in Australia?
For the first Mother’s Day gift in Australia, think about a personalized necklace with the name of the baby. Also, a beautiful frame where she can place unforgettable moments or a span voucher for relaxing. Gift baskets with candies or token gifts are also nice as well as homemade gifts. Experiences like having a high tea or a picnic together with the family help in creating that special day for first moms.
