What is Mother’s Day?
Mother’s Day is a special day dedicated to honoring mothers worldwide. It is a time to appreciate all the hard work and love that mothers give to their families. Although it might seem like just a day for gifts and cards, the day has a rich history and varies significantly from country to country.
When Do We Celebrate?
The date of Mother’s Day can vary depending on where you live. In many countries, including the United States, Australia, and Canada, Mother’s Day is celebrated on the second Sunday of May. However, in the United Kingdom and Ireland, it is observed on the fourth Sunday in Lent, which is the period leading up to Easter. This means that the date changes every year!
The Origins of Mother’s Day
The idea of a day specifically for honoring mothers began in the United States in the early 20th century. A woman named Anna Jarvis held a memorial for her mother in 1908 and campaigned for Mother’s Day to be recognized as a holiday in the United States. By 1914, her efforts paid off, and Mother’s Day became an official holiday. Anna envisioned the day as a time of personal celebration between mothers and families.
How is Mother’s Day Celebrated Around the World?
Different cultures celebrate Mother’s Day in unique ways. For example, in Ethiopia, families gather each fall to sing songs and eat a large feast as part of Antrosht, a multi-day celebration honoring motherhood. In Mexico, Mother’s Day, or “Día de la Madre,” on May 10th, is celebrated with lots of music, food, and often a heartfelt serenade of the song “Las Mañanitas” to wake up the mom in the house.
In Thailand, Mother’s Day is celebrated in August on the birthday of the current queen, Sirikit. The day is also marked by giving and receiving love and gifts, and by public gatherings and parades.
Join the Fun!
Learning about Mother’s Day can remind us of the different ways people show love across the world. Why not join this wonderful celebration by downloading a Mother’s Day coloring sheet? Whether it’s drawing hearts and flowers, or a picture of your mom, coloring can be a fun way to show your love and appreciation for her!
