While Mother’s Day in the United States is characterized by breakfast in bed and heartfelt gifts, different cultures have their own unique ways of honoring mothers. From music to food, here’s a glimpse of how this special day is celebrated around the world.
Mexico
In Mexico, Mother’s Day is celebrated on May 10 with lively mariachi music. Families often hire bands to serenade their mothers at home, with popular songs like “Amor de Madre.” Traditional meals include tamales and atole, a warm corn-based drink, ensuring that mothers are treated to a delightful feast.
Thailand
Thai Mother’s Day, known as Wan Mae, takes place on August 12, coinciding with the birthday of Queen Sirikit, who is revered as the nation’s mother figure. In the lead-up to the holiday, Thai people display portraits of the queen and hold candle-lighting ceremonies. Children also honor their mothers by offering alms to monks and gifting them fragrant white jasmine flowers, which signify maternal affection.
Serbia
Serbia’s Mother’s Day, called Materice, falls on the second Sunday before Christmas. A charming custom involves children playfully tying up their mothers in bed until they receive gifts or treats. This playful tradition is part of a trio of holidays that includes Children’s Day, where kids hide small presents, and Father’s Day, where dads must promise gifts to escape their children’s grasp.
United Kingdom
Mothering Sunday in the UK has roots in religious observance, originally a day for Christians to visit their mother church. Now celebrated on the fourth Sunday of Lent, it has evolved into a time for pampering mothers with gifts and meals, often featuring a traditional simnel cake, which is a spiced fruit cake topped with marzipan.
Ethiopia
Ethiopia celebrates mothers with Antrosht, a festival held at the end of the rainy season. Families come together for a two- or three-day holiday, bringing ingredients for a special meat hash that mothers prepare. After the meal, mothers and daughters anoint themselves with butter, followed by singing and dancing in celebration.
Australia
In Australia, chrysanthemums are the go-to flowers for Mother’s Day, offering a symbol of love and appreciation. The day serves as an opportunity for families to express their gratitude and spend quality time together.
Understanding the diverse ways in which Mother’s Day is celebrated around the world sheds light on the universal love and appreciation for mothers. For more insights into parenting and motherhood, check out this related post on Modern Family Blog. If you’re considering starting a family, you can explore options with the Cryobaby at Home Insemination Kit, a top provider for at-home insemination solutions. Additionally, Healthline offers excellent resources for pregnancy and insemination information.
In summary, Mother’s Day is celebrated in varied and vibrant ways across different cultures, each reflecting unique traditions and loves for mothers.
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