Kenyans joined the majority of the world in celebrating the heartfelt occasion of Mother’s Day, yesterday (11.05.2025).
While the outpouring of love for mothers is universal, the dates and traditions attached to Mother’s Day vary widely across different cultures and regions.
From springtime celebrations to religious observances and national commemorations, here’s a look at when and why Mother’s Day is marked on different days around the world.
Second Sunday in May: The Most Popular Date
In over 50 countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, South Africa, Kenya, and much of Europe, Mother’s Day is celebrated on the second Sunday of May. This tradition began in the United States in 1908 when Anna Jarvis held a memorial for her mother and campaigned to have a day set aside to honor all mothers. By 1914, it was declared a national holiday in the U.S., and the idea quickly spread globally.
United Kingdom and Ireland: Fourth Sunday of Lent
In the UK and Ireland, Mother’s Day — known as Mothering Sunday — is celebrated on the fourth Sunday of Lent, typically in March. The origins date back to the 16th century when people returned to their “mother church” for a special service. Over time, it evolved into a day for honoring mothers with gifts and flowers, coinciding with a break from fasting during Lent.
Arab Countries: March 21
Many Middle Eastern nations, including Egypt, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, celebrate Mother’s Day on March 21, the first day of spring. This tradition was introduced by Egyptian journalist Mustafa Amin in 1956, who advocated for a day to recognize mothers. The idea resonated across the region and has been widely observed since.
France: Last Sunday of May (or First Sunday of June)
In France, Mother’s Day (Fête des Mères) is typically celebrated on the last Sunday of May, unless it coincides with Pentecost, in which case it is moved to the first Sunday of June. The holiday was formalized in the 1950s to honor the role of mothers in rebuilding families after World War II.
Thailand: August 12
In Thailand, Mother’s Day is celebrated on August 12, the birthday of Queen Sirikit, the revered mother of the nation. This national holiday emphasizes both familial and national pride, with public ceremonies, candlelight tributes, and acts of merit.
Ethiopia: At the End of the Rainy Season (October/November)
In Ethiopia, Mother’s Day is part of the Antrosht festival, held in the fall, after the rainy season. It’s a multi-day celebration where families gather, sing, and share traditional meals to honor mothers, blending religious tradition with local customs.
Russia and Former Soviet States: Last Sunday of November
Russia celebrates Mother’s Day on the last Sunday of November. Established in 1998, the holiday is distinct from International Women’s Day (March 8), which still holds greater significance in many former Soviet countries for honoring women and mothers alike.
Other countries also choose unique dates for their own reasons. In Norway, Mother’s Day is celebrated on the second Sunday in February, while Georgia marks it on March 3rd. Mexico honors mothers annually on May 10th, regardless of the day of the week, often with music, food, and festivities. In Argentina, the celebration takes place on the third Sunday of October, while Indonesia observes it on December 22nd, commemorating the first Indonesian Women’s Congress in 1928.
READ MORE:
Why So Many Dates?
The variation in Mother’s Day dates arises from cultural, religious, and historical influences. Some align with religious calendars (like Lent or saints’ feast days), while others are tied to national figures or seasonal changes.
Regardless of the date, the sentiment remains universal: to honor the women who give life, nurture families, and form the backbone of communities.
