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United States -

The modern Mother's Day, as many people know it, was founded in the US by Anna Jarvis in 1907. She campaigned for a day to celebrate mothers as a tribute to her mother, who passed away in 1905. By 1914, the celebration had become so popular that it was declared a national holiday.

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United States -

Today, the US still celebrates Mother's Day on the second Sunday in May, giving mothers flowers, chocolates, and other gifts.

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Japan -

Mother's Day in Japan was originally held on March 6 to celebrate the birthday of Empress Kojun, the mother of Emperor Emeritus Akihito. However, it was banned as a Western influence during World War II. 

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Japan -

In 1949, Japan began celebrating Mother's Day on the second Sunday in May. Today, families give their mothers gifts, cards, and flowers, usually red carnations, which symbolize a mother's love and sacrifices.

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Brazil -

Mother's Day is a very important holiday in Brazil, coming second to Christmas. It's also a multi-generational celebration, including grandmas and aunts. 

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Brazil -

Including flowers and presents, Mother's Day in Brazil typically involves good food and time spent together. 

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Nepal -

In Nepal, many people honor the deceased by visiting Mata Tirtha Pond, especially during the annual festival of Mata Tirtha Aunsi.

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Nepal -

This festival, also known as Aama ko Mukh Herne Din (Day to See Mother's Face), is dedicated to showing love and respect to mothers, both living and deceased.

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Egypt -

Mother’s Day in Egypt and several other Arab countries falls on March 21, the first day of spring.

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Egypt -

Although it's an unofficial national holiday, the widely observed day is filled with gift-giving and celebration.

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United Kingdom -

Mother's Day in the UK takes place on the fourth Sunday of Lent, a date that varies each year. Originating in the Middle Ages as a religious holiday, it's also known as Mothering Sunday. 

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United Kingdom -

Influenced by the modern American celebration, Mothering Sunday became largely secular by the '50s. One traditional Mothering Sunday food is the Simnel cake, a light fruitcake made with marzipan.

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Mexico -

Mexico has celebrated Mother's Day since 1922, when it was established as part of an effort to promote motherhood. Today, in addition to giving mothers flowers and cards, families enjoy traditional Mexican foods and music.

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Mexico -

The celebration also frequently begins with a serenade called 'Las Mañanitas.' Family members, and sometimes mariachi bands, gather outside the mother's window to sing.

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Ethiopia -

Unlike other celebrations for Mother's Day around the world, in Ethiopia, it lasts for three whole days, during a holiday called Antrosht. 

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Ethiopia -

The celebration is held whenever the rainy season ends, sometime between October and November. Families come together with traditional singing, dancing, and food. 

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Peru -

Peru marks Mother's Day on the same date as the US and with many of the same customs. However, many Peruvians also honor their deceased female relatives. 

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Peru -

They gather at their graves to celebrate them, often bringing flowers, candles, and sharing food and drinks. 

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Thailand -

In Thailand, Mother's Day is celebrated on August 12 to mark the birthday of the beloved Queen Sirikit.

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Thailand -

Children give their mothers garlands of jasmine, which symbolizes purity and love. Celebrations often include ceremonies and parades to honor both the queen and mothers across the country.

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France -

The French celebrate Fête des Mères on the last Sunday in May, unless it falls on the same day as the Christian holiday of Pentecost, in which case it's pushed back a week. 

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France -

Like many other countries, French families give mothers gifts, cards, and flowers, though Lily of the Valley is preferred.

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China -

Having arrived in China in the '80s, the imported holiday of Mother’s Day is aligned with traditions of filial piety in China.

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China -

Onn the second Sunday of May, an increasing number of people in China celebrate the day with gifts and festivities.

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India -

Each October, Hindus honor Durga, the goddess of mothers, during the 10-day festival known as Durga Puja. 

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India -

Dating back to the 16th century, families spend weeks preparing food, gathering gifts, and decorating their homes for the festival.

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Australia -

Mother's Day in Australia is celebrated on the second Sunday in May, and began being celebrated in 1924. 

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Australia -

Down Under, carnations and chrysanthemums are the most popular flowers to give—chrysanthemums because they call their mothers "mum."

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Italy -

Known as La Festa della Mamma, Mother's Day is celebrated on the second Sunday of May in Italy. 

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Italy -

On this day, mothers aren't allowed to do chores or cook. They're usually offered special homemade gifts and fresh pastries. 

Sources: (History) (Time) (The Pioneer Woman) (Good Housekeeping) 

See also: The ultimate Mother's Day playlist to celebrate moms

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