Why Mother's Day is on Different Dates Around the World
Discover why Mother's Day falls on different dates depending on where you live, from the second Sunday in May to March 21st and beyond.
If you've ever wondered why your friends in the UK celebrate Mother's Day in March while Americans wait until May, you're not alone. Mother's Day is one of the most confusing holidays when it comes to dates, with over 50 different dates celebrated worldwide.
The American Standard: Second Sunday in May
The most widely adopted date for Mother's Day is the second Sunday in May. This tradition started in the United States in 1908 when Anna Jarvis held a memorial for her mother. By 1914, President Woodrow Wilson signed a proclamation designating the second Sunday in May as Mother's Day.
Countries following the May tradition include: USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, India, China, Japan, South Africa, and most of South America and Europe.
The UK and Ireland: Mothering Sunday
In the United Kingdom and Ireland, Mother's Day falls on the fourth Sunday of Lent, exactly three weeks before Easter Sunday. This tradition dates back centuries to a time when Christians would return to their 'mother church' - the main church or cathedral in their area.
Because it's tied to Easter (which follows the lunar calendar), the date shifts each year, falling anywhere between March 1st and April 4th.
Other Notable Dates
- Norway: Second Sunday in February
- Arab countries: March 21st (spring equinox)
- Russia: March 8th (International Women's Day)
- Thailand: August 12th (Queen Sirikit's birthday)
- Indonesia: December 22nd
Why Does This Matter?
Understanding these differences is crucial for international families, businesses operating globally, and anyone with loved ones abroad. Missing Mother's Day because you followed the wrong country's calendar is a mistake nobody wants to make!
Use our country-specific holiday calendars to always know the correct date for your region.