Mother’s Day is Sunday, May 11. Although the holiday originated in America in the late 1850s as Mother’s Work Day, the importance of honoring moms and the enduring bonds of love they share with their children has become a global tradition.

As you and your family make plans to celebrate Mother’s Day, this is a perfect time to share with your kids how other countries honor Mom through special customs and traditions.

United Kingdom
Known as “Mothering Sunday,” this holiday has roots in Christian traditions where people returned to their “mother church” for a special service. Usually celebrated the fourth Sunday of Lent in March or April, Mothering Sunday is a joyous day, with children giving cards, flowers, and gifts to their mothers.

Mexico
Día de las Madres is a big celebration in Mexico. Children often serenade their moms with the song “Las Mañanitas,” and families gather for special meals. Día de las Madres is observed on May 10. Schools host events, and many people bring flowers and gifts.

Haiti
Known as Fête des Mères, Mother’s Day in Haiti is celebrated on the last Sunday of May. This is a day to honor and appreciate mothers with traditions like wearing red flowers to show love and respect. Families often attend church services and prepare traditional Haitian dishes, while children may give handmade gifts and cards to their mothers. Cultural performances featuring music and dance are common.

Japan
Japanese Mother’s Day (Haha no Hi) is observed on the second Sunday in May. This Japanese tradition includes giving carnations, symbolizing sweetness and endurance. Children may draw pictures of their mothers, and families often cook Mom’s favorite meal.

Ethiopia
Mother’s Day is observed as part of the Antrosht festival, a three-day celebration that marks the end of the rainy season (usually between October and November). In Ethiopia, families gather for a feast, including a traditional Ethiopian hash. Daughters and sons contribute different ingredients to the meal, strengthening bonds of love and gratitude toward mothers. Families often celebrate through singing, dancing, and other cultural activities.

India
In some areas of India, the Western version of Mother’s Day is gaining popularity. Celebrated on the second Sunday in May, this special day is a time to give gifts and cards and host celebrations honoring Mom. Traditionally, motherhood is honored during festivals like Durga Puja, which reveres the Indian mother goddess Durga.

Thailand
Mother’s Day is tied to the birthday of Queen Sirikit on August 12. The queen is considered the mother of the nation. Celebrations include parades, candle-lighting ceremonies, and giving jasmine flowers, a symbol of maternal love.

Serbia
Known as Materice, Mother’s Day is part of a three-day celebration series: Children’s Day, Mother’s Day, and Father’s Day. It is observed the second Sunday before Christmas. Children tie up their mothers and won’t let them go until they give treats or small gifts. This playful custom fosters family closeness.