Mother’s Day is celebrated in various ways around the world, often with a combination of traditional customs, cultural practices, and modern trends. The hospitality experts at COLUMBIA signature embrace the many ways that families come together to celebrate their loved ones. In this blog, we explore some customs from different countries for observing Mother’s Day.

1. United States: Mother’s Day in the United States is typically celebrated on the second Sunday of May, which falls on the 12th of May this year. It’s a day when people honour their mothers with gifts, cards, flowers, and special outings. Many families also gather for meals or organise activities to show appreciation for their mothers. With springtime bringing warmer temperatures, a lovely Mother’s Day lunch or dinner in the garden can be focused on a light meal such as grilled chicken with a hearty kale or romaine lettuce salad and a carrot cake for dessert. In colder temps, a roast chicken (see recipe at the end) is always a hit.

1. United Kingdom: Mother’s Day in the UK, also known as Mothering Sunday, falls on the fourth Sunday of Lent. It has historical roots in the Christian tradition but has evolved into a secular celebration focused on honoring mothers. Families often give cards, flowers, and gifts to their mothers and may also treat them to meals or pampering experiences.

1. Mexico: In Mexico, Mother’s Day (Día de las Madres) is celebrated on the 10th of May. It’s a significant occasion marked by expressions of love and gratitude for mothers. Families may organise gatherings, give gifts, and serenade mothers with songs.

1. Japan: Mother’s Day in Japan is celebrated on the second Sunday of May, similar to the United States. It’s a relatively modern holiday influenced by Western customs. Japanese children often give their mothers carnations and other gifts, and families may spend time together to show appreciation.

1. India: Mother’s Day in India is becoming increasingly popular, although it’s not a traditional holiday. It’s usually celebrated on the second Sunday of May, following the American tradition. Families may give gifts, cards, and flowers to honour mothers, and some may organise special outings or meals.

1. France: Mother’s Day in France (Fête des Mères) is celebrated on the last Sunday in May or the first Sunday in June; this year, it will be observed on the 26th of May. It’s a day when children honour their mothers with gifts, cards, and flowers. Many families also enjoy meals together or engage in activities to celebrate the occasion.

1. Brazil: Mother’s Day (Dia das Mães) in Brazil is celebrated on the second Sunday of May, similar to the United States. It’s a popular holiday marked by giving gifts, flowers, and cards to mothers. Families may also gather for meals or other festivities to honour mothers.

1. South Africa: Mother’s Day in South Africa is celebrated on the second Sunday of May, following the American tradition. It’s a day when people honour their mothers with gifts, flowers, and special gestures of appreciation. Families may also gather for meals or outings to celebrate the occasion.

While the dates and customs may vary, the underlying sentiment of honouring and appreciating mothers is a common theme across cultures celebrating Mother’s Day.

Classic Roast Chicken for Mother’s Day

Ingredients

One 4-pound (1.81kg) whole chicken

2 garlic cloves (bashed)

2 bay leaves

50 grams or 4 tablespoons butter (softened)

Juice of 1 lemon

Directions

1. Heat oven to 220C/425F. Put the chicken in a large roasting tin, then stuff the garlic and bay leaves into the cavity. Rub the outside of the chicken with butter, then squeeze over the lemon juice and add the lemon halves to the inside of the chicken. Season inside and out, then cook the chicken for 20 minutes.

• Turn the oven down to 190C/375F and cook for a further 45 minutes or until the chicken juices run clear when you pierce the thigh with a knife. Leave to rest for 15 minutes before carving.