Mother's Day across Europe

Crenguța Cristina Ciobanu — Sun, 01 Feb 2026 13:49:40 +0200

Mother's Day in Europe is celebrated on two main dates, with unique local traditions:
1. Most of Europe (Germany, Italy, Sweden, etc.
2. Date:Second Sunday in May.
3. Practice:The familiar commercial holiday with cards, flowers (especially carnations), gifts, and family meals.
France: Last Sunday in May. Known for elaborate handmade school crafts.
Spain & Portugal: First Sunday in May (originally tied to the Virgin Mary).
Norway:Second Sunday in February (uniquely early).
Russia & Balkans: Celebrated, but International Women's Day (March 8th) is often a bigger celebration for all women.
Serbia/Montenegro:Part of a trio of family days in December; involves a playful tradition of children "tying up" their mother.
Common Themes: Flowers are the universal gift, school crafts are widespread, and a special family meal is central to the celebration.
In Romania, Mother's Day and International Women's Day are celebrated together on the same date.
• Date: March 8th. It is celebrated simultaneously with Ziua Internațională a Femeii (International Women's Day).
Traditions: The day is one of the most important non-religious holidays of the year.
• Flowers are essential: Men and children give flowers (traditionally snowdrops - ghiocel, but also tulips, mimosa, and roses) to all the important women in their lives: mothers, wives, grandmothers, sisters, teachers, and colleagues.
• Family Celebrations: It is a major family day. Children present handmade crafts and cards from school to their mothers. Families gather for special meals.

iTeach: Blog Crenguța Cristina Ciobanu

Mother's Day across Europe