Mother’s Day Customs and Traditions 2023: Celebrating Moms Across the Globe As we approach Mother’s Day 2023, people all over the world are gearing up to celebrate the most important women in their lives. While the date may differ from country to country, the sentiment remains the same – to show our love and appreciation for our mothers. In this article, we’ll delve into some of the customs and traditions associated with this special day. 1. The Origin of Mother’s Day Mother’s Day has its roots in ancient Greek and Roman cultures, where festivals were held in honour of the mother goddesses Rhea and Cybele. In the 1600s, the English began celebrating “Mothering Sunday”, a day where children would return home to visit their mothers and attend church services. 2. Celebrating Across the Globe Mother’s Day is celebrated in over 40 countries around the world, with varying customs and traditions. In the United States, it falls on the second Sunday of May, while in the United Kingdom it falls on the fourth Sunday of Lent. In Mexico, it is celebrated on May 10th, and in Thailand, it is celebrated on August 12th, the birthday of Queen Sirikit. 3. Gift-Giving One of the most common customs on Mother’s Day is gift-giving. From flowers and chocolates to jewellery and perfume, there are countless ways to show your appreciation. In Japan, it is customary to present your mother with a red carnation, while in Ethiopia, families gather to prepare a special meal for their mothers. 4. Brunch and High Tea Another popular tradition is treating your mother to a special meal. In many countries, brunch is the meal of choice, with restaurants offering special menus and deals. In the United Kingdom, high tea is a popular option, with sandwiches, scones, and pastries served alongside tea. 5. Homemade Cards and Crafts For those on a budget, homemade cards and crafts are a heartfelt way to show your love. Children can get creative with construction paper, markers, and glitter, while adults can try their hand at DIY projects like photo albums or scrapbooks. 6. Mother’s Day Around the World In Ethiopia, Mother’s Day is celebrated with a three-day festival called Antrosht, where families gather to feast and dance. In India, Mother’s Day is celebrated in October, with families honouring their mothers and grandmothers with gifts and sweets. In Argentina, Mother’s Day is celebrated on the third Sunday of October, with families gathering for picnics and barbecues. 7. Mother’s Day in the Pandemic The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way we celebrate special occasions, and Mother’s Day is no exception. Many families are opting for virtual celebrations, with Zoom calls and online gift deliveries becoming the norm. 8. Mother’s Day Question and Answer Q: When is Mother’s Day 2023? A: Mother’s Day 2023 falls on May 14th in the United States and many other countries. Q: What is the most popular gift for Mother’s Day? A: Flowers are a popular gift for Mother’s Day, with roses, carnations, and lilies being some of the most common choices. Q: What are some alternative ways to celebrate Mother’s Day? A: Instead of traditional gifts and meals, consider taking your mother on a hike, a spa day, or a cooking class. 9. The Importance of Celebrating Moms While it’s important to show our love and appreciation for our mothers every day, Mother’s Day provides a special opportunity to go above and beyond. Whether it’s with a gift, a meal, or a simple hug, let’s take the time to celebrate the amazing women in our lives. 10. Conclusion Mother’s Day is a time to honour the women who have shaped us into who we are today. From ancient festivals to modern-day celebrations, the customs and traditions associated with this holiday are as diverse as the people who celebrate it. No matter how you choose to celebrate, the most important thing is to show your mother how much you love and appreciate her.
