Mother's Day in Mexico: A Tradition of Love and Appreciation

The importance of motherhood in Mexican culture

Mothers are often considered the glue that holds the family together. They are responsible for instilling values, teaching traditions, and providing emotional and physical support to their children.

Actually, in Mexican society, the matriarchal family structure is common, with mothers often taking on leadership roles within the family unit. As such, Mother's Day serves as a time to recognize and honor the love, sacrifice, and devotion that mothers demonstrate in their everyday lives.

Additionally, Mexico is a predominantly Catholic country, in which, mothers take on the responsibility of providing spiritual guidance and instilling religious values in their children. They ensure that children participate in religious rituals, learn about their faith, and develop a strong spiritual foundation.

For this reason, Mother's Day is not only a time to shower mothers with love and gratitude, but also an occasion to celebrate the powerful impact they have on the lives of their children and families.

History of Mother's Day in Mexico

The history of Mother's Day in Mexico dates back to 1922, when journalist and editor of the newspaper Excelsior, Rafael Alducin, proposed the initiative of celebrating a special day to honor Mexican mothers. Alducin was inspired by the movement that began in the United States with Anna Jarvis and thought that Mexican mothers also deserved a day of their own recognition and appreciation.

However, it took a lot of hard work and dedication for this day to be officially established in Mexico. The first Mother's Day in Mexico was held on May 10, 1922 – and since then, it became a tradition that is widely celebrated throughout the country, regardless of cultural, social and economic differences.

Now, Mother's Day is one of the most popular celebrations in the country – and in almost every Mexican home it's celebrated with great enthusiasm.

Celebration and traditions

The mother role is fundamental in Mexican culture as mothers are considered pillars of the family and responsible for the emotional and material well-being of their children. Therefore, Mother's Day in Mexico is a reminder of the love and dedication that Mexican mothers bring to their families.

Additionally, Mexico is a country where family unity and love for the mother is something that is deeply rooted in its culture. In other words, a mother's love in Mexico is something sacred and that is not compared to almost anything else.

So, this celebration usually starts in the morning. Many people choose to make a special breakfast or lunch for their mothers. The meal is a time to share stories, laughter, and memories with the mothers, showing them appreciation for all they have done for their children and families.

Some others decide to take them out to lunch at a special restaurant. On many occasions, it's also common to see serenades offered by sons to their mothers, sometimes with the help of mariachis. Traditional songs, such as "Las Mañanitas" and "Amor Eterno" are performed to awaken mothers with love and joy.

Throughout the day, mothers receive gifts, flowers, and loving words from their children and loved ones.

Some companies even prepare events and get-togethers in the workplace, where mothers are celebrated and recognized for their important work as mothers and workers.

Mother's Day Monument in Mexico City

The devotion to the mother gained such importance that on May 10, 1949, a large sculpture was inaugurated in the capital city in honor of all mothers, called: Mother’s Monument.

The design of the monument features a central stone pedestal, which supports a bronze sculpture of a woman with her arms outstretched, cradling a child. The woman's face is a representation of love, care, and strength, embodying the essence of motherhood. The child in her arms symbolizes the future generations that mothers nurture – and it has the following words: “To the one who loved us before knowing us."

Today, the monument serves as a focal point for the city's Mother's Day festivities, reminding residents and visitors alike of the importance of mothers in Mexican culture and society.

A day to remember mothers who are no longer with us

Mother's Day in Mexico is also an opportunity to remember and pay tribute to mothers who are no longer physically present. Families visit cemeteries, bringing flowers and candles to honor the memory of those mothers who have passed away. These moments are times of reflection and remembrance, filled with nostalgia and love.

Families also often attend masses and religious events in honor of mothers, where prayers and blessings are given to mothers who are no longer present and are fondly remembered.

… And while it may be a sad and nostalgic moment, it is also part of Mother's Day for millions of families who no longer have their mothers with them.

At Lalo, we help you remember the best moments with your mother

Mother's Day in Mexico is a holiday that reflects the deep love, respect, and gratitude that Mexicans feel for their mothers.

It is a testament to the central role mothers occupy in Mexican life and culture and a reminder of the importance of supporting and valuing their work in society... But, you don't have to wait for Mother's Day to go around and honor your mother.

With Lalo App, you can save all the memories you have of her in an intuitive and easy-to-use application that allows you to store videos, audio, photos, and share them with your family and friends... So that the memories of your mother stay alive forever!

Download the app and save your most valuable memories with Lalo today!