Unusual Mother’s Day Customs Around the World
Mother’s Day is celebrated globally, but the ways people honor mothers vary dramatically—some are sweet, some are quirky, and some are downright surprising. Here’s a look at some of the most unusual traditions.
1. Thailand – Royal Recognition
In Thailand, Mother’s Day is celebrated on August 12, the birthday of Queen Sirikit, the mother of the nation.
Custom: Children show their love with elaborate ceremonies and flowers, particularly jasmine, which symbolizes maternal love.
Unique twist: There are parades and formal ceremonies, with mothers sometimes receiving official recognition for their contributions to the family and society.
2. Ethiopia – Anticipatory Feasts
Ethiopia celebrates a multi-day festival called Antrosht, which has similarities to Mother’s Day.
Custom: Families gather to honor mothers with songs, dances, and feasts.
Unique twist: The celebration involves children preparing special meals for their mothers, including ingredients from both sides of the family—a mix of culinary diplomacy and familial bonding.
3. Japan – Red Lipstick and Carnations
Mother’s Day in Japan, called Haha no Hi, is celebrated on the second Sunday of May.
Custom: Children traditionally give red carnations, symbolizing love and purity.
Unique twist: It’s also common for mothers to receive lipstick as a gift. This might seem unusual to outsiders but is considered a thoughtful and practical gesture.
4. Mexico – Serenading Moms
In Mexico, Mother’s Day is Día de las Madres, celebrated on May 10th.
Custom: Families often serenade their mothers with music, particularly mariachis.
Unique twist: Mothers may also be treated to breakfast in bed, but the serenade adds a dramatic, musical flair that is rare in other countries.
5. Wales – Mothering Sunday and Cards with a Twist
In Wales, Mothering Sunday is celebrated on the fourth Sunday of Lent.
Custom: Children give cards and gifts, but the tradition historically included “mothering” songs sung in local churches.
Unique twist: Traditionally, children would return to their “mother church” for a special service, making it a religious as well as familial celebration.
6. Indonesia – Giving “Mom Cards” With a Dash of Humor
In Indonesia, Mother’s Day is celebrated on December 22.
Custom: Children often give flowers or gifts to their mothers.
Unique twist: Some families create funny, handmade cards or poems that humorously praise—or gently roast—the mother. This blend of love and humor is uniquely Indonesian.
7. Bulgaria – Mom-Recognition with a Twist
In Bulgaria, Mother’s Day overlaps with International Women’s Day on March 8.
Custom: Women of all ages, including mothers, receive flowers and small gifts.
Unique twist: The holiday isn’t just about biological mothers—grandmothers, aunts, and even female friends are honored, making it a broader celebration of female nurturing.
8. France – Growing Mothers’ Day Trees
France celebrates Fête des Mères on the last Sunday in May (unless it coincides with Pentecost).
Custom: Children present gifts and flowers to their mothers.
Unique twist: In some regions, families plant a small tree or shrub in honor of their mother—a living symbol of their appreciation.
9. South Korea – A Trio of Celebrations
In South Korea, Mother’s Day is intertwined with Parents’ Day and Teachers’ Day.
Custom: Children give carnations to parents.
Unique twist: Mothers often receive handmade crafts or gifts from their children, but the broader holiday system emphasizes honoring parents and teachers alike, giving Mother’s Day a uniquely communal and educational flavor.
10. Nicaragua – Children’s Singing Marathon
In Nicaragua, Mother’s Day is a big event on May 30th.
Custom: Children sing, dance, and perform in honor of their mothers.
Unique twist: Schools host competitive performances where children sing songs and recite poems for their moms, often judged by teachers or community elders. It’s like a talent show dedicated to maternal appreciation!
Just Bloom Florist tips
Mother’s Day might seem universal, but the ways it is celebrated can range from heartfelt and serene to lively, musical, or even humorous. From serenades in Mexico to tree planting in France, each culture brings its own unique twist to honoring mothers. The underlying theme, however, is universal: celebrating love, sacrifice, and the irreplaceable role of mothers in our lives.
