Celebrate Mothers Day in South Africa: Date and Customs

The Date of Mothers Day in South Africa

In South Africa, Mothers Day is celebrated on the second Sunday of May. It is not recognized as a holiday by the government. The tradition is to give cards and gifts and to serve mothers breakfast in bed or to go out to lunch together as a family.

Traditions in South Africa

South Africans place a high value on motherhood and on family life in general, and that tends to make Mothers Day a fairly big event for many South Africans. It is traditional for mothers to wear either a red or pink carnation, while someone else may wear a white carnation for a mother who has passed away.

Carnations

Carnations are the traditional flower given to mothers on Mothers Day in South Africa. The carnation is a symbol of love, admiration, and gratitude. Red carnations are typically given to mothers who are still alive, while white carnations are given to mothers who have passed away. The tradition of giving carnations on Mothers Day is thought to have originated in the United States, but it has become a popular tradition in South Africa as well.

Gifts and Celebrations

In South Africa, Mothers Day is a time for families to come together and celebrate the special women in their lives. Gifts are often given, such as flowers, chocolates, jewelry, or gift certificates. Some families may also choose to have a special meal together or go out to dinner. Children often make homemade gifts for their mothers, such as cards, drawings, or crafts. Mothers Day is a day for showing appreciation for the love and care that mothers provide.

History of Mothers Day

The modern celebration of Mothers Day can be traced back to the early 20th century when Anna Jarvis, an American social activist, campaigned for a day to honour mothers. In South Africa, this particular celebration started in the early 20th century, and it follows the tradition of other countries in honouring mothers. While South Africa doesn't recognize Mothers Day as a public holiday, the tradition of celebrating mothers on the second Sunday of May has become deeply ingrained in South African culture.

International Significance

Mothers Day is a day for many people to show their appreciation towards mothers and mother figures worldwide. It is an annual event but is held at different dates in the calendar, depending on the country. For thousands of years, countries have built traditions centered around it. In the United States this began in the early 20th century. Mothers Day is celebrated at different times globally. In the U.S. and in South Africa it is celebrated on the second Sunday in May however in Malawi for example, it is celebrated on the third Sunday in May.

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