Mother's Day 2025 in Italy

Mother's Day in Italy is celebrated on the second Sunday of May, honoring mothers with love and gratitude. Families often express appreciation through flowers, gifts, and shared meals, making it a special day of togetherness.

Mother's Day: A Public Holiday?

Mother's Day is not a public holiday in Italy. Businesses, offices, and schools operate with regular hours, but families often find time to gather and celebrate during the day.

Mother's Day

Mother's Day has its origins in ancient times, with festivals dedicated to mother goddesses in Greek and Roman traditions. The modern celebration, however, began in the early 20th century. In the United States, Anna Jarvis is credited with founding Mother's Day in 1908 to honor her late mother's dedication to motherhood. The idea quickly spread worldwide, becoming a day to appreciate mothers and their irreplaceable role in families and society.

In Italy, Mother's Day, or Festa della Mamma, was introduced after World War II, inspired by global movements to recognize mothers. The celebration became popular in the 1950s, with the second Sunday of May eventually being established as the official date. Over time, it has evolved into a heartfelt tradition across the country.

Mother's Day Celebration in Italy

On Mother's Day in Italy, families typically come together to celebrate and honor their mothers. Children often make handmade gifts, write letters, or give flowers, particularly carnations or roses, as symbols of love and gratitude. Many families prepare a special meal, with traditional Italian dishes, to enjoy together. It's common for children to give their mothers small tokens of appreciation, such as chocolates or other thoughtful presents. Churches may also hold special prayers or services to bless and honor mothers, emphasizing their role in nurturing families and communities.

The importance of Mother's Day in Italy lies in its emphasis on family bonds and love. Italian culture places great value on the family, and this day provides an opportunity to express deep affection and gratitude for mothers, who are often seen as the heart of the household. It is a moment to pause, reflect, and celebrate the unconditional support and sacrifices mothers make every day, strengthening relationships and creating cherished memories.

Mother's Day Observances