This weekend, families around the world will be celebrating Mother’s Day to honour the women in our lives who do so much so selflessly. In Canada, many families shower their moms with flowers, cards, and other small gifts, as well as enjoying a yummy meal together – which inspired us to take a closer look at a few Mother’s Day traditions around the world!
Japan
Mothers in Japan are revered for the gentle strength that they share with their families. As a result, Japanese mothers often receive carnations on Mother’s Day, which are known for being a sturdy and beautiful flower.
Israel
Mother’s Day in Israel has evolved quite a bit over time and is now known as Family Day. Many Israeli families celebrate with delicious meals eaten as a family, exchanging cards and other small gifts like flowers, as the day has now become a chance to celebrate all types of families.
United Kingdom
In the UK, many families will indulge in enjoying a Simnel cake as a treat on Mothering Sunday (the fourth Sunday of Lent), a tradition that traces back to the Middle Ages! Simnel cakes are stuffed with delicious fruits and topped with marzipan, but most important, they were made from the highest quality flour available. We want only the best for our moms, of course!
Peru
Families in Peru treat their mothers like queens on Mother’s Day! Many families will host feasts and large meals in honour of their matriarchs, as well as giving gifts like flowers, cards, and chocolates. As part of honouring the important women in their lives, many Peruvians will also visit cemeteries to leave fresh flowers for those who are no longer with them and dedicate the day’s celebratory meal in their honour.
Germany
Many German families celebrate in a way that would be familiar to Canadian families: they give their mothers cards, flowers, chocolates, and some will prepare a special meal just for her! Mother’s Day became an official holiday in 1933, but even before then, many used to celebrate the arrival of Spring as a beginning of life, something often associated with mothers. This was a day spent with family, where nobody worked or went to school, and mothers were blessed by their loved ones!
No matter what language you speak or where you live, our moms will always have a special place in our hearts. However you and your families celebrate, we want to wish all moms a beautiful day with their loved ones this Mother’s Day!