Why Do We Celebrate Two Mother’s Days?

Answer: Mother’s Day, a special day dedicated to honoring mothers and motherhood, is celebrated worldwide. However, it’s observed on different dates in various countries, primarily in March and May.

Mother’s Day in March

• Mothering Sunday in the UK: The March celebration, known as Mothering Sunday, is traditionally observed in the United Kingdom and some parts of Europe. It falls on the fourth Sunday in Lent, a Christian festival leading up to Easter.
• Religious Roots: Originally, Mothering Sunday was a day when people returned to their ‘mother church’ — the main church or cathedral in a family’s area. Over time, it evolved into a more secular holiday, where children would present their mothers with flowers and gifts.

Mother’s Day in May

• American Mother’s Day: The May celebration is largely influenced by the American Mother’s Day, observed on the second Sunday in May. It’s also widely celebrated in various countries around the world.
• Creation by Anna Jarvis: This version of Mother’s Day was created by Anna Jarvis in the early 20th century. Jarvis campaigned to establish a day to honor mothers following the death of her own mother. In 1914, U.S. President Woodrow Wilson officially set the date for this celebration.

Cultural Differences and Global Adoption

• Global Spread: While Mother’s Day in May originated in the United States, its concept spread globally, with various nations adopting the day to celebrate motherhood.
• Adaptation to Local Customs: In different countries, Mother’s Day aligns with existing celebrations honoring motherhood or female figures. Therefore, the date may vary according to local customs and historical factors.