Mother’s Day Around the World: Unique Traditions and 14 Inspiring Gift Ideas for Mother

Mother’s Day is a global occasion to honor and appreciate the invaluable role of mothers. While the sentiment remains universal, the date, customs, and ways of celebrating vary greatly across countries. This article explores how Mother’s Day is observed around the world, revealing both touching similarities and fascinating differences. If you’re looking for gift ideas for mother, understanding how different cultures honor moms might inspire some of the best Mother’s Day gifts.

1. United States

Date: Second Sunday of May
Traditions: Americans celebrate Mother’s Day by giving flowers, cards, and gifts. Brunches or family dinners are popular, and many children write heartfelt messages or poems. The day is also one of the busiest for phone calls and restaurant reservations. It was officially established in 1914 by President Woodrow Wilson, thanks to the campaign of Anna Jarvis.

Gifts for Mother: Popular gifts include flowers, jewelry, spa vouchers, and personalized items. For those seeking luxury gifts for mom, premium skincare, designer accessories, or a weekend getaway are well-loved choices.

2. United Kingdom

Date: Fourth Sunday of Lent (Mothering Sunday)
Traditions: Originally tied to the Christian calendar, children would return to their “mother church” and visit their families. Today, it’s similar to American customs, with cards, flowers (especially daffodils), and small gifts. Simnel cake is a traditional treat associated with the day.

Gift Ideas for Mother: Afternoon tea experiences, pampering sets, or a handcrafted keepsake make for good gifts for mom in the UK.

3. Japan

Date: Second Sunday of May
Traditions: Japanese children often draw pictures of their mothers and present them with carnations, a symbol of purity and sweetness. Homemade gifts and letters of appreciation are common. Celebrations tend to be modest but deeply heartfelt.

Gifts for Mother: Elegant sweets, silk scarves, or minimalist home items are often chosen as gifts for mother in Japan.

4. Mexico

Date: May 10 (fixed date)
Traditions: Mother’s Day in Mexico, or “Día de las Madres,” is a lively and emotional holiday. Families gather for music, food, and tributes. Serenades with mariachi bands are common, and churches hold special masses. Mothers are often given gifts and flowers.

Best Mother’s Day Gifts: Handmade crafts, personalized jewelry, or floral arrangements with heartfelt notes are favored.

5. France

Date: Last Sunday in May (or first Sunday in June if Pentecost falls on the last Sunday in May)
Traditions: Known as “Fête des Mères,” French children present their mothers with flowers, handwritten poems, and gifts. The government once awarded medals to mothers with large families as part of a population-boosting initiative.

Luxury Gifts for Mom: Perfume from a French maison, designer handbags, or gourmet hampers are popular.

6. India

Date: Second Sunday of May
Traditions: Though a more recent adoption, Mother’s Day is celebrated widely in urban areas. Children give cards, gifts, and spend quality time with their mothers. It’s seen as a day to acknowledge maternal love and sacrifice.

Gift Ideas for Mother: Ethnic wear, personalized home decor, or curated wellness kits make meaningful gifts.

7. Thailand

Date: August 12 (Queen Sirikit’s birthday)
Traditions: Mother’s Day is linked to the birthday of Queen Sirikit, the mother of the nation. Thai people express their respect with ceremonies and offer jasmine flowers, which symbolize purity and motherhood.

Gifts for Mother: Thai silk items, traditional desserts, or jasmine-scented products are common choices.

8. Ethiopia

Date: During the fall, following the rainy season (linked to the Antrosht festival)
Traditions: Mother’s Day coincides with the Antrosht festival, where families gather for a multi-day feast. Daughters bring vegetables and cheese, while sons provide meat. Songs and stories honoring family matriarchs are shared.

Gift Ideas for Mother: Food-focused gifts, such as traditional ingredients or a lovingly prepared meal, are cherished.

9. Germany

Date: Second Sunday of May
Traditions: Known as “Muttertag,” Germans celebrate with flowers and cards. During the Nazi era, the day was politicized, but it has since returned to a more personal celebration. Commercialism is present but not as intense as in the U.S.

Best Mother’s Day Gifts: Garden-themed gifts, thoughtful notes, or a breakfast in bed.

10. Brazil

Date: Second Sunday of May
Traditions: Mother’s Day in Brazil, or “Dia das Mães,” is the second most commercial holiday after Christmas. Families often attend church, followed by a big family lunch. Gifts and flowers are customary.

Luxury Gifts for Mom: Fashion accessories, cosmetics sets, or spa day packages.

11. Serbia

Date: Part of a three-day celebration in December (Children’s Day, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day)
Traditions: In a unique twist, Serbian children tie their mothers up with ribbon or rope until they promise to give them treats or gifts. The playful custom is reversed with fathers the following Sunday.

Gifts for Mother: Homemade goods or treats, playful tokens, or traditional Serbian pastries.

12. Russia

Date: Last Sunday of November
Traditions: Russia’s Mother’s Day is relatively new and often overshadowed by International Women’s Day on March 8, which remains more popular. However, the November holiday is slowly gaining traction with cards, flowers, and small gifts.

Good Gifts for Mom: Fragrant flowers, winter-themed accessories, or personalized items.

13. Egypt (and many Arab countries)

Date: March 21 (first day of spring)
Traditions: Mother’s Day is widely celebrated in Egypt and across the Arab world. Children express their gratitude with poems, songs, and gifts. Media outlets broadcast special programming to honor mothers.

Gift Ideas for Mother: Perfumes, gold jewelry, or heartfelt letters are commonly given.

14. South Korea

Date: May 8 (Parent’s Day)
Traditions: Instead of separate Mother’s and Father’s Days, South Koreans celebrate both parents on May 8. Children give carnations and perform respectful bows. Schools and communities host appreciation events.

Gifts for Mother: Health supplements, traditional teas, or elegant household items.

Conclusion

From serenades in Mexico to jasmine flowers in Thailand, the love for mothers transcends borders and cultures. Whether through a quiet meal or a grand public celebration, Mother’s Day around the world is a touching reminder of the deep respect and affection held for mothers everywhere. If you’re seeking gifts for mother, look to these global traditions for inspiration. Whether it’s simple or luxury gifts for mom, the most meaningful presents are always those given with love and thoughtfulness.

No matter where you are, the message remains the same: Thank you, Mom, for everything.