Mother's Day Around the World
Traditions from Britain, France, Spain and Australia are Explored
Apr 17, 2008
Every year as May approaches, sons and daughters around the world plan on celebrating their mothers. In the United States, mothers are often treated to a special brunch and a beautiful bouquet of Mother’s Day flowers and then pampered with a spa treatment. Consider doing something different this Mother’s Day and add some international flair to your celebration.
Mothering Sunday in Britain
The British celebrate Mothering Sunday on the fourth Sunday in Lent. The United Kingdom holds the title of originating the concept of a day to honor mothers with celebrations dating back to the 1600s. As in the United States, flowers are the most popular gifts for mothers. In addition, a special Mothering cake is usually made. This almond cake is sometimes called a Simnel Cake. Honor your mother as the British do and find a fantastic Simnel Cake recipe to make for her special day.
Mother’s Day in France
The French do not celebrate Mother’s Day on the second Sunday in May as the Americans do. Instead, mom’s special day is reserved for the last Sunday in the month of May. A family dinner is the norm, and traditionally the mother being honored is presented with a cake that looks like a bouquet of flowers. Consider making your mother a flower bouquet cake on the last Sunday in May and celebrate Mother’s Day with the people of France.
Spain’s Mother’s Day Celebration
Unlike the United States and several other countries, Mother’s Day in Spain is celebrated on December 8. Spaniards pay tribute not only to their own mothers on this day, but also to the Virgin Mary. Mother’s Day in Spain includes religious celebrations across the country. As December comes this year, consider taking a moment to honor your mother on December 8 with the Spaniards of the world.
Australian Traditions
Just as in the United States, the people of Australia celebrate Mother’s Day on the second Sunday in May. While many of the customs are similar between the two countries, the traditional carnation carries different meaning in Australia. If a person is wearing a colored carnation, it means that her mother is still living. If, however, the person is wearing a white carnation then it is in memory of her mother who has passed on. Carefully choose your carnation this Mother’s Day and celebrate as the Australians do.
Plan something special for your mother this year and implement one of these fun international customs into your celebration. Plan ahead for Father's Day by reading Father’s Day Around the World.
Sources:
- Mothers Day World, The Holiday Spot, The Mothers Day Celebration site
