Mother’s Day Celebrations:
Italy vs. United States
Mother’s Day Celebrations
In Italy, Mother’s Day is a heartfelt celebration. Just like in many other countries, Mother’s Day in Italy is celebrated on the second Sunday of May. It is a day dedicated to the one who raised us, loved us, protected us, stood by us during difficult times, and quietly rejoiced in our victories.
It’s the day when children simply say “thank you” with their presence. Families come together for a special lunch or dinner, often featuring traditional Italian dishes, perhaps at a restaurant if the mother’s health allows. It’s a magical moment that will forever be imprinted in the memory of the heart, memories that occasionally resurface, perhaps hidden behind a tear.
Many Italians cook their mothers’ favorite dishes (my mother loved lasagna) or prepare special desserts. Heart-shaped cakes or classic Italian sweets like tiramisu are common choices. Italians never visit their mothers empty-handed; even a symbolic gift like a rose conveys deep love and appreciation for all they’ve received freely.
Gifts can also include chocolates, perfumes, jewelry (such as a necklace), or a shawl for cool evenings. However, the most beautiful and precious gift both give each other, though free, is time.
In the United States, Mother’s Day is an annual celebration observed on the second Sunday of May. It was established by Anna Jarvis in 1908, with the first official celebration taking place at St. Andrew’s Methodist Church in Grafton, West Virginia. In the U.S., Mother’s Day has broader significance, recognizing mothers, motherhood, and maternal bonds—including grandmothers, stepmothers, and adoptive mothers—and emphasizing their positive contributions to families and society.
The American tradition also distinguishes itself through church participation, often accompanied by the distribution of carnations. Families gather in the evening, whether at home or in a restaurant, for a special dinner. While Mother’s Day has diverse origins and traditions worldwide, many celebrations have been influenced by this American tradition.
In conclusion, both in Italy and the United States, Mother’s Day is a moment to express love, gratitude, and admiration for the extraordinary women who have shaped and continue to shape our lives. Let us honor mothers, cherish family bonds, and celebrate with the eternal strength of life. 🌸