Mother’s Day in the UK is not on the same date as in the U.S. and most other countries. While Americans and many others celebrate it on the second Sunday in May, the UK follows a much older tradition. In 2025, Mother’s Day in the UK is on March 30, while the U.S. will celebrate it on May 11.
This difference in date confuses many, but the reason lies in history, religion, and cultural evolution.
Why Is Mother’s Day Different in the UK?
Mother’s Day in the UK, also called Mothering Sunday, is tied to the Christian calendar. It falls on the fourth Sunday of Lent, three weeks before Easter. Because Easter moves each year, so does Mothering Sunday.
This tradition goes back to the 16th century when people returned to their ‘mother church’ - the main church in their hometown. This religious practice eventually turned into a family celebration, where children gave gifts and flowers to their mothers.
Cerq / Unsplash / The U.S. set the celebration on the second Sunday in May, a fixed date without religious ties, which is different from the UK’s movable feast.
Over time, the religious aspect faded, but the date remained. In contrast, Mother’s Day in the U.S. has no connection to the church calendar. It was officially recognized in 1914 after activist Anna Jarvis pushed for a day to honor mothers.
When Do Other Countries Celebrate Mother’s Day?
Many other countries celebrate Mother’s Day at different times. Australia, Denmark, Finland, Italy, Switzerland, Turkey, and Belgium follow the American date and mark the occasion on the second Sunday of May. This makes it a common standard but not a universal one.
Mother’s Day is always on May 10 in Mexico and many Latin American countries. Unlike the UK or the U.S., it doesn’t move. It is a fixed date. Mexicans celebrate it with music, food, and family gatherings, making it one of the biggest holidays of the year.
The Middle East has its own approach. Egypt introduced Mother’s Day in 1956, and many neighboring countries followed suit. They celebrate it on the first day of spring, usually March 21. The timing reflects renewal and motherhood, aligning with seasonal change rather than religious or historical events.
Thailand’s Mother’s Day is another unique case. It is celebrated on August 12, which is the birthday of Queen Sirikit, the mother of the nation. The celebration is deeply connected to royal traditions, making it different from the Western approach.
Gabe / Unsplash / For those living in or between different countries, remembering the right date is important. If you are in the UK, mark March 30, 2025, for Mothering Sunday.
The Shared Meaning of Mother’s Day
Despite the differences in dates and traditions, the core idea of Mother’s Day is the same worldwide. It is a time to appreciate mothers for their love, sacrifice, and guidance. Be it linked to religion, national history, or cultural customs, the sentiment behind the celebration remains unchanged.
If you are in the US, it is May 11, 2025. And if you have loved ones in other countries, check their local traditions to celebrate with them at the right time.
Regardless of when it happens, the key is to make the day special. Whether through gifts, time spent together, or a heartfelt message, the love and gratitude expressed are what truly matter. So, wherever you are in the world, take the time to show appreciation to the mother figures in your life.