Exploring the Origins and Differences of Mother’s Day

As Mother’s Day approaches in the UK, it’s interesting to delve into its origins and how it differs across the globe, particularly in the United States.

The concept of Mother’s Day traces back to the US, where Anna Jarvis held the first commemorative event on May 12, 1907, in honor of her late mother in Grafton, West Virginia. Anna’s mother, Ann Jarvis, had been an advocate for women’s groups promoting friendship and health, inspiring Anna to campaign for a holiday recognizing the vital role of mothers in families. Within five years, Mother’s Day was embraced by almost every state in the US, and in 1914, President Woodrow Wilson officially established it as a national holiday.

In contrast, Mother’s Day in the UK evolved from a medieval tradition where individuals returned to their home parishes to visit their mothers on Laetare Sunday, the fourth Sunday of Lent. Over time, this practice transformed into Mothering Sunday in Britain, continuing into modern times, albeit largely replaced by the more globally recognized Mother’s Day.

One notable difference between Mother’s Day in the UK and the US is the timing of the celebration. In the US, it falls on the second Sunday in May, while in the UK, it typically occurs in March or sometimes April. The UK date varies annually as it aligns with the date of Lent, which follows the lunar calendar.

This year, Mother’s Day in the UK falls on Sunday, March 10, providing an opportunity to express gratitude to the maternal figures in our lives. It’s a chance to reflect on their love, sacrifice, and unwavering support, celebrating their invaluable contributions to our lives. So whether it’s with a heartfelt gesture, a thoughtful gift, or simply spending quality time together, let’s make the most of this special day to honor and thank our mothers.