A Warm Day of Gratitude: When Is Mother's Day Celebrated?
Mother's Day is a warm and meaningful holiday celebrated in many countries around the world. It is a day to thank mothers for their love, care, support, and everything they do for their families.
In Latvia, Mother's Day in 2026 will be celebrated on May 10, the second Sunday of the month. On this day, many families congratulate mothers, grandmothers, and other women who play an important role in raising children.
The History of Mother's Day
The tradition of honoring mothers goes back a very long time. Different cultures had their own customs and celebrations connected with motherhood and female figures. In the ancient world, for example, people held festivals in honor of mother goddesses – the Greeks worshiped Rhea, while the Romans honored Cybele. Even so, those traditions were not quite the same as the modern Mother's Day we know today.
A closer predecessor of the modern holiday is often linked to Mothering Sunday, a Christian tradition in Britain. Still, modern Mother's Day is most commonly associated with Anna Jarvis. In the early 20th century, she campaigned for a special day dedicated to mothers, and over time the holiday spread to many countries.
Mother's Day in Latvia
Mother's Day has its own history in Latvia. It was first celebrated in 1922, and since 1934 it has been observed on the second Sunday of May. After the Soviet period, the tradition was restored in 1992, and since then Mother's Day has once again been officially celebrated in Latvia every year.
The holiday comes at a time when spring is already in full bloom. Blossoming trees, fresh greenery, and the general feeling of renewal in nature fit the mood of the day especially well. It is a holiday closely associated with warmth, care, and the beginning of life.
In Latvia, Mother's Day is often marked by school and family events. In kindergartens and schools, children make cards, crafts, and small presents, while many towns and cities hold concerts and themed performances.
Latvia also celebrates Father's Day, which falls on the second Sunday of September.
How Mother's Day Is Celebrated
Mother's Day is usually celebrated with family. On this day, mothers are congratulated and thanked for their love, patience, daily care, and support. Children give flowers, cards, and small gifts.
In many families, the holiday becomes a reason to gather around the table, say kind words, and simply spend time together. Greetings from young children are especially touching – they often learn poems or prepare little surprises.
Why This Holiday Matters
Mother's Day is not just another date on the calendar. It is a chance to remember how important a mother's love, care, and presence are in a child's life. For many people, it is also an opportunity to pause for a moment and thank their mother for everything she does.
That is why Mother's Day remains one of the warmest and most heartfelt holidays, both in Latvia and in many other countries around the world.