Celebrating American Mother's Day
Mother's Day is a cherished occasion in the United States, dedicated to honoring and appreciating mothers and mother figures for their invaluable contributions to families and society. This special day is marked by expressions of love, gratitude, and celebrations.
When is Mother's Day?
In the United States, Mother's Day is celebrated on the second Sunday of May each year. This tradition has been firmly established since the early 20th century and continues to be one of America's most beloved holidays.
Historical Background
The modern American Mother's Day was created by Anna Jarvis in 1908, who wanted to honor her mother, Ann Reeves Jarvis. Ann had been a peace activist who cared for wounded soldiers during the American Civil War and created Mother's Day Work Clubs to address public health issues. The first Mother's Day celebration took place at St. Andrew's Methodist Church in Grafton, West Virginia, where Ann had taught Sunday school.
After a successful campaign by Anna Jarvis, President Woodrow Wilson signed a proclamation in 1914, officially establishing the second Sunday in May as Mother's Day.
"A mother is she who can take the place of all others but whose place no one else can take." - Cardinal Mermillod
How Americans Celebrate
Mother's Day is celebrated in various ways, typically including:
- Sending greeting cards
- Giving flowers (particularly carnations, the official flower of Mother's Day)
- Taking mom out to brunch or dinner
- Making handmade gifts
- Phone calls to mothers who live far away
- Family gatherings
- Creating DIY crafts or special recipes
Economic Impact
Mother's Day has become one of the most commercially successful U.S. occasions:
- It is the busiest day of the year for restaurants
- Phone calls reach their highest volume
- Florists typically see their highest sales
- The jewelry industry reports significant spikes in purchases
According to the National Retail Federation, Americans spend billions annually on Mother's Day gifts and celebrations.
International Mother's Day Celebrations
While the United States celebrates Mother's Day in May, other countries have their own dates and traditions:
| Country | Date |
|---|---|
| United Kingdom | Fourth Sunday of Lent |
| Mexico | May 10 |
| France | Last Sunday in May |
| Thailand | August 12 |
For a more comprehensive list of Mother's Day dates worldwide, visit this resource.
Cultural Significance
Despite its commercial aspects, Mother's Day maintains its core purpose of honoring mothers and maternal bonds that shape our society. Whether through gifts, meals, or simply spending time together, the day serves as a reminder to appreciate the important role mothers play in our lives.
Remember that while Mother's Day is officially observed on the second Sunday in May, showing appreciation for mothers and maternal figures can and should be practiced year-round.