Is Mother's Day Celebrated Twice A Year? Here’s What We Know

Mother’s Day is one of the important celebrations across the globe. Marked annually with much enthusiasm, the day holds an emotional significance. From organising surprise parties to gifting unique presents and more, each of us plans something exceptional to make the day extra special for our mothers. This year, Mother’s Day will be celebrated on Sunday, May 12. The event is marked annually on the second Sunday of May. However, there has been occasional confusion about whether it occurs twice a year. Mothering Sunday, a related celebration, adds to this intricacy as Mother’s Day is celebrated on different days in more than 40 countries across the world.

Difference between Mother’s Day and Mothering Sunday:

Mother’s Day: The occasion is not celebrated twice a year but there are variations about how it’s observed in different countries. In many countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and most parts of Europe, Mother’s Day is celebrated on the second Sunday of May. In India, Mother’s Day aligns with the international schedule and is celebrated on the second Sunday of May, along with other foreign countries. Former US President Woodrow Wilson declared the second Sunday in May to be celebrated as Mother’s Day. The history of Mother’s Day dates back to the spring celebration to honour Goddess Rhea, the mother of gods in ancient Greek civilization. Anna Jarvis celebrated Mother’s Day privately in 1907 to mark her mother’s birthday. In 1908, she organised a church service that drew in as many as 407 children and mothers.

Mothering Sunday: Mothering Sunday is celebrated three weeks before Easter Sunday in the United Kingdom, Costa Rica, Georgia, Samoa and Thailand. It was originally a day for people to return to their ‘mother church’ for a special service. Over time, it evolved into a day to honour mothers, similar to Mother’s Day. In 2024, Mothering Sunday was observed on March 31.

Hence, Mother’s Day is not officially celebrated twice a year globally; the convergence of Mothering Sunday and Mother’s Day in some countries can create the impression of dual celebrations, particularly for those countries, and cultures that observe both traditions.