Mother's Day is a very important celebration in Colombia, honoring mothers and their role in the family and society. In the country, it is commemorated on the second Sunday of May, following the tradition adopted from the United States. This date is not only a cause for celebration but also encompasses various family customs and traditions. Through gifts, special foods, and activities, the love and dedication of mothers are recognized on their day.
Meaning of Mother's Day in Colombia
Mother's Day in Colombia is part of a rich cultural tradition that celebrates and recognizes the invaluable role mothers play in society. This holiday highlights the love and dedication mothers dedicate to their families, becoming a symbol of gratitude and family unity.
Origin of Mother's Day
The roots of Mother's Day date back to various ancient cultures that venerated maternal figures. In Egypt, Isis was honored, and in Greece and Rome, deities such as Rhea and Cybele, respectively. However, the modern celebration is most closely associated with the figure of the Virgin Mary in Christianity. The formal establishment of Mother's Day in Colombia in 1926 was an effort by the Congress of the Republic to consolidate this tradition, following the example of the United States, where it was officially declared in 1914.
Evolution of the celebration in Colombia
Over the years, Mother's Day has evolved in Colombia. Since its adoption, this holiday has become a significant event that transcends mere commemoration. Colombian families have adapted the celebration by incorporating local traditions and customs that strengthen family ties. Family gatherings, special meals, and symbolic gifts are a fundamental part of this day, reflecting the desire to pay tribute to mothers.
Today, activities often range from family lunches to emotional gestures like drawings or serenades, expressing love and gratitude. This evolution has allowed Mother's Day to become not only a time of celebration, but also an opportunity to reflect on the essential role mothers play in the social structure.
When is Mother's Day celebrated in Colombia?
The celebration of Mother's Day in Colombia is carried out with great emotion, marking a special day to honor the maternal figures in the lives of every Colombian.
Official date on the Colombian calendar
Mother's Day is celebrated on the second Sunday in May, a date officially adopted in Colombia in 1926. This decision was made to align with the celebration held in the United States, which also falls on the same month and day. The choice of this date highlights the importance of the maternal role and the family in Colombian society.
Regional exceptions: The case of Cúcuta
Not all regions of Colombia celebrate Mother's Day in the same way. In the department of Norte de Santander, for example, a notable exception has been made. There, the holiday is moved to the last Sunday in May. This variation responds to a historical event dating back to 1875, when an earthquake struck the city of Cúcuta. The alternative of commemorating Mother's Day on this special date has become a local tradition, reflecting how historical conditions can impact celebrations in different parts of the country.
Importance of celebrating Mother's Day in May
The month of May holds special significance for Colombians, as the celebration aligns with traditions rooted in the country's culture and history. The choice of the second Sunday in May is intertwined with the influence of diverse sociocultural contexts.
Influence of the United States
The date of Mother's Day celebration in Colombia is largely due to the influence of the United States. The modern Mother's Day tradition was established in this country and has spread internationally. In 1926, Colombia adopted this tradition as a way to join the American commemoration, creating an opportunity to honor mothers in a similar way to what was happening in North America.
Role of the second Sunday of May
Establishing the second Sunday in May as the official date recognizes the importance of time dedicated to mothers. This choice not only highlights the value of motherhood but also offers a time for families to gather and celebrate the love and sacrifice of mothers. The fact that it coincides with the month of May provides pleasant weather in many places, making it easy to hold various outdoor activities and celebrations.
The figure of Ann Jarvis and Woodrow Wilson
Ann Jarvis, an American activist, was instrumental in the creation of modern Mother's Day. Her fight for a national day honoring mothers culminated in 1914 when President Woodrow Wilson signed legislation formalizing the celebration. The date's inclusion in the Colombian calendar occurs precisely in this historical context, reflecting how certain social phenomena in other countries can influence local traditions. Thus, mothers' commitment to family and community development is valued and recognized, establishing a framework of respect and love that endures over time.
Celebration Calendar: Mother's Day 2025
The calendar for Mother's Day celebrations in Colombia is marked by significant dates in the coming years. In the current context, the 2024 and 2025 celebrations stand out, as families prepare to commemorate mothers on their respective days.
Mother's Day 2024 in Colombia
In 2024, Mother's Day was celebrated on May 12th. This date, as in previous years, will be a special time to bring families together and honor mothers on a day of gratitude and love. Festivities are expected to include:
- Family meals at home or in restaurants, where mothers will be entertained.
- Gifts ranging from flowers to more personal details such as clothing and technology items.
- Activities in schools where children express their affection for their mothers through crafts and presentations.
Mother's Day 2025 in Colombia
By 2025, Mother's Day will be celebrated on May 11th. This date is particularly important for Colombian society, as it is an opportunity to reaffirm the emotional bond between mothers and children. Anticipated traditions for that day include:
- Serenades that are usually organized by children to delight their mothers with music.
- Family outings that seek to strengthen unity and enjoy moments together.
- Preparing surprises and symbolic gifts that represent love and gratitude toward mothers.
The preparations for Mother's Day in those years demonstrate the importance of this celebration within Colombian culture. Each year, the tradition remains alive, and families seek to innovate and find new ways to honor those who play such an important role in family life.
Traditions and customs on Mother's Day
Mother's Day in Colombia is an occasion filled with love and celebration, marked by family traditions that highlight the value and importance of mothers. Below, we explore some of the most beloved practices among Colombians.
Family activities for the whole family
Family gatherings are at the heart of this celebration. Mother's Day becomes a reason for families to get together and enjoy time together. Activities can include:
- Family breakfasts or lunches where typical dishes are shared.
- Outings to restaurants, where special time is dedicated to mothers.
- Outdoor activities, such as visits to parks or hikes, that foster family unity.
Most common gifts on Mother's Day
This holiday is an opportunity to express love and gratitude to mothers through meaningful gifts. Traditionally, the following are often given:
- Flowers, especially bouquets of roses or sunflowers, which symbolize affection.
- Fashion items, such as clothing or accessories, that reflect the tastes of mothers.
- Beauty or spa products that allow mothers to enjoy some well-deserved relaxation time.
Options to pay tribute to mothers
There are many ways to honor mothers on this special day. Some examples include:
- Organize a special home-cooked meal where your children prepare their favorite dishes.
- Create personalized cards with heartfelt messages that express what each mother means to her family.
- Make photo albums that capture significant moments in family life.
Symbolic and emotional gestures
Simple gestures often carry profound meaning. Children often draw pictures or write letters, showing their affection and appreciation. These unique gifts are treasures that mothers cherish.
School celebrations and serenades
Schools also play an important role in celebrating Mother's Day. Schools often organize activities that allow children to honor their mothers:
- Events where students perform artistic presentations, such as dances or songs, dedicated to their mothers.
- School projects that create crafts and gifts that celebrate motherly love.
Serenades are another very popular tradition. On Mother's Day nights, musical groups are hired to perform serenades, filling the atmosphere with emotion and nightly celebrations, where mothers are celebrated with songs dedicated to their love and sacrifice.
Economic impact of Mother's Day in Colombia
Mother's Day has a significant impact on the Colombian economy, boosting consumption and benefiting various sectors. This cultural event is not only a family celebration, but also an opportunity for trade and economic growth.
Increased sales and benefited sectors
During Mother's Day, a significant increase in sales of products and services is observed. The following sectors stand out in particular:
- Flowers: Sales of bouquets and floral arrangements are expected to increase, with reports of approximately 10% growth in exports during this period.
- Gifts: Items such as clothing, jewelry, and technology are the most sought-after. Consumers look to offer gifts that reflect their care and appreciation.
- Restaurants: Food establishments are often packed, as many families choose to take their mothers out for a special lunch or dinner.
Importance in the country's economy
This special day not only impacts the aforementioned sectors but also has a multiplier effect on the national economy. The celebration of Mother's Day generates around 27,000 temporary jobs, necessary to meet the demand for products and services. The Colombian Association of Flower Exporters (Asocolflores) and Fenalco have reported figures indicating an increase in commercial transactions, making this date a key event for boosting economic activity in several regions of the country.
The importance of this celebration lies in its ability to foster family unity while simultaneously stimulating the local economy. The shopping and consumption that occurs around this day reflect the value placed on mothers in Colombian culture and the willingness of families to invest in gestures that strengthen emotional ties.
Frequently asked questions about Mother's Day in Colombia
There are various concerns that arise regarding the celebration of Mother's Day in Colombia. Below are some of the most common questions that both Colombians and visitors often have about this holiday.
Why doesn't it match other countries like Argentina and Brazil?
The date on which Mother's Day is celebrated varies from country to country. In Colombia, this celebration takes place on the second Sunday of May, following the tradition established by the United States in 1914. In contrast, countries like Argentina and Brazil celebrate this day at other times of the year. For example, in Argentina, it is commemorated on the third Sunday of October, while in Brazil it is the second Sunday of May, as in Colombia, but traditions and celebrations may differ. This discrepancy is due to cultural factors and the gradual adoption of holidays.
What to do if Mother's Day falls on a holiday?
When Mother's Day falls on a public holiday in Colombia, many families choose to celebrate in a special way, extending the festivities. This allows mothers to enjoy a double day of honor. However, some activities may also be organized for additional days, seeking to ensure mothers feel valued regardless of the date. Celebration plans often include family lunches, trips, and other activities that celebrate the maternal figure in an atmosphere of joy and togetherness.
What is the origin of this special date in Colombia?
Mother's Day in Colombia was institutionalized in 1926 through Decree 748 of the Congress of the Republic. Its establishment sought to highlight the maternal figure in Colombian culture, adopting the same date commemorated in the United States: the second Sunday in May. This choice was inspired by the recognition that motherhood and the sacrifice of mothers had received in different cultures throughout history. As a result, this day has become an important moment of reflection and celebration of the love and dedication of mothers.