Mothers are givers of life, compassionate and protective nurturers. They make the world go round. Love for mothers can be found worldwide, but in Latin America, families and communities come together to celebrate the achievements and sacrifices of all types of mothers on this special day. Mother’s Day in Latin America is a beloved holiday filled with festive music, food, and touching gifts.
While the origin of Mother’s Day in contemporary Mexico only began a little over a century ago, Mexico has celebrated powerful females since pre-Columbian times. Ancient Mexican society had a great reverence for powerful matriarchs, and the Mayans worshipped a goddess known as Ix Chel whose presence represented fertility and motherhood. Infinity Insurance Agency, Inc. (IIA) is proud to serve the Hispanic community and shine a light on the beautiful traditions and customs of the Latin American community. Join us as we explore the rich cultural heritage of Mother’s Day in Latin America.
When is Mother’s Day celebrated?
Did you know that you can celebrate Mother’s Day anytime from the second Sunday of May to mid-August, depending on where you live within North and South America. In the United States and other Latin American countries such as Ecuador, Colombia, Peru, Chile, Uruguay, Brazil, Venezuela, Cuba, Puerto Rico, and Honduras, Mother’s Day is celebrated on the second Sunday of May. Mother’s Day in Mexico is always commemorated on May 10th, regardless of the day of the week. Guatemala, El Salvador, and Belize also choose to celebrate Mother’s Day, or “El Día de las Madres” on May 10th. In Central America, Nicaragua honors mothers on May 30th and Costa Rica on August 15th. If you find yourself in Paraguay, you can celebrate Paraguayan Independence and Mother’s Day on May 15th.
Origins of Mother's Day
How did Mother’s Day evolve from ancient rituals to modern greeting cards? Modern Mother’s Day in the United States can be credited to a woman named Anna Jarvis from Philadelphia. Anna’s mother had organized many influential women’s groups, and in her memorial, Ana originated Mother’s Day on May 12th, 1907. In 1914, Mother’s Day would be decreed as a national holiday by President Woodrow Wilson.
While once simply a special occasion for mothers, over time this holiday would grow to include all those who play mothering roles, from aunts to grandmothers to stepmoms. Mexico would officially adopt Mother’s Day in 1922, thanks to a journalist named Rafawl Alducin who jump-started a national movement to pay tribute to all the mothers of Mexico. Las Madres, or "The Mothers," is now celebrated on May 10th because, when the holiday first began, the 10th was typically payday. This meant families had extra money to treat their moms to something special.
How Mother’s Day is celebrated in Mexico and Latin America
Mother’s Day in America might mean brunch and a heartfelt card, but in Latin America, families may choose to honor their matriarchs differently. In many Latin American countries, the role of the mother is greatly aligned with religious beliefs. Many countries may elect to also celebrate the Virgin Mary or Our Lady of Guadalupe on this day. Throughout Latin America, the mother is considered the backbone of the family unit and even the community at large. It is quite common for employers to let their workers leave early on this day to spend more time honoring their mamas.
While mothers may be revered all over, the traditions of Mother’s Day differ from country to country:
- Mexico - In Mexico mothers are treated to lively celebrations featuring mariachi music and traditional dishes such as mole, sopes, pozole, and enchiladas. Children commonly serenade their mothers with a traditional song called ‘Las Mañanitas’, or perform as part of a school event. Some families may even attend church services to pay tribute to the Virgin Mary.
- Peru - Peru’s Mother’s Day activities are slightly more somber. Here families may pay a visit to the gravesites of deceased mother figures and clean and decorate their headstones with flowers.
- Brazil - Lucky Brazilian mamas are gifted expensive dinners, perfume, clothes, and flowers.
- Argentina - In this South American country, mothers can expect to be lavished with thoughtful gifts and a delicious meal, whether at home or in a restaurant. Families use this holiday as an excuse to gather and spend quality time together.
- Panama - In Panama, motherly love is combined with the festivities of the Feast of the Immaculate Conception on December 8th, making it a more religious event.
Mother’s Day in the U.S. for Latino families
Latino families all over the U.S. may choose to celebrate on May 10th, the second Sunday in May, or both. Traditions and rituals may vary from region to region, with many U.S.- based Latino families choosing to honor mom with a lovely asada or lunch out. Mothers, grandmothers, and aunts may be treated to handwritten cards, gifts, and flowers. In contrast to Mexico, it is unlikely that mom will be serenaded with Mariachi or witness a school performance. However, whatever date is chosen for the festivities, Mother’s Day recognizes the significance of a mother’s hard work, dedication, and unwavering love.
Safety on Mother’s Day; Road trips and family gatherings Wherever you live, Mother’s Day presents the perfect opportunity to reunite with family members and loved ones. If you are not lucky enough to live close to your mother, grandmother, or other motherly figure, you may be planning to travel.
Take a minute to review some safety tips to properly prepare for your Mother’s Day road trip:
- Check to make sure you have up-to-date car insurance.
- Check the weather and traffic before departing.
- Properly secure all children and pets in their appropriate seats and/or carriers.
- Do not text, eat, or groom while driving.
All year long mothers bless us with their wisdom, home-cooked meals, and warm embraces. Whether you opt to honor your mama in May, August, or anywhere in between, there’s no such thing as too much motherly appreciation. Mamas are the cornerstone of Latin American culture and Infinity Insurance Agency, Inc. (IIA) is delighted to celebrate alongside the communities we serve. However you choose to pay tribute to Mama, we wish you a Mother’s Day filled with love and joy.
Want to explore IIA’s diverse coverage options before your Mother’s Day travel? Reach out to one of our qualified agents at 1-855-478-3705 for a free auto insurance quote today!