(DRAFT) – Mother’s Day in LATAM

Mother’s Day is one of the most treasured holidays among Latinos. For many of us, moms hold a central role in our families, not just as caregivers, but as the emotional core. Still, when and how we celebrate them differs widely across Latin America.

While the United States celebrates Mother’s Day on the second Sunday of May (falling on May 11 in 2025) Latin America doesn’t follow a single calendar.

Here’s how it breaks down across the region:

• May 10: Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Belize

• May 11 (second Sunday): U.S., Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Chile, Uruguay, Brazil, Venezuela, Cuba, Puerto Rico, Honduras

• May 15: Paraguay (shared with Independence Day)

• May 27: Bolivia

• May 30: Nicaragua

• Last Sunday of May: Dominican Republic, Haiti

• First Sunday of May: Spain

• August 15: Costa Rica

• October 19 (third Sunday of October): Argentina

• December 8: Panama (aligned with the Feast of the Immaculate Conception)

Each country adds its own rhythm, meaning, and traditions to the celebration but no matter the date, the love runs deep.

Why Do Mother’s Day Dates Vary Across Latin America?

The differences really come into focus when you look at the calendar. Some countries follow the U.S. model, while others have their own specific days rich with meaning and tradition. Countries like Ecuador, Colombia, Peru, Chile, Uruguay, Brazil, Venezuela, Cuba, Puerto Rico, and Honduras stick with the second Sunday of May, just like in the U.S.

However, Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, and Belize celebrate each year on May 10th, a date lovingly known as ‘El Día de las Madres.’ In Paraguay, Mother’s Day is celebrated on May 15th, coinciding with Independence Day. Bolivia observes the occasion on May 27th, while Nicaragua celebrates on May 30th. The Dominican Republic and Haiti hold their celebrations on the last Sunday of May, whereas Spain marks it on the first Sunday of the month.

And then, there are those who don’t celebrate in May at all: Costa Rica honors mothers on August 15, Argentina celebrates on the third Sunday of October, which in 2025 is October 19 and Panama wraps up the year by celebrating on December 8, coinciding with the Feast of the Immaculate Conception.

What Makes Mother’s Day So Special in Latin America?

Motherhood holds a deep significance in Latin American culture. In many countries, being a mom is more than just a role, it’s a sacred status, often intertwined with religious beliefs and family traditions. The Virgin Mary serves as a strong maternal figure in Catholic traditions, influencing how Mother’s Day is celebrated

 In many places, Mother’s Day is about much more than giving gifts. It’s about being present. Some companies even give employees time off to spend with their moms, showing just how seriously the holiday is taken. From food and music to quiet moments of remembrance, every country brings something unique to the table. Whether it’s in May or December, each celebration carries deep cultural significance.

Local Traditions That Make Mother’s Day Shine

In Peru, for example, the day often includes visiting cemeteries to honor mothers who have passed away. Families clean gravesites and decorate them with flowers, an emotional ritual that highlights the deep respect for maternal figures even beyond death. Mexico is known for its lively celebrations. Moms are awakened with the sound of “Las Mañanitas,” often performed live by a mariachi band, capturing the vibrancy of the occasion. The day usually features big family meals with traditional dishes like mole, pozole, enchiladas, or sopes.

In contrast, Brazil embraces the commercial side of Mother’s Day. It’s the country’s second-biggest shopping holiday after Christmas, much like Black Friday in the U.S. Perfume, clothes, and upscale dinners are all part of the celebration, focusing on outward displays of love.

In Panama, the connection between Mother’s Day and religion is especially significant. Celebrated on December 8th, it coincides with the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, giving it a more spiritual tone.

Meanwhile, in Argentina, although commercialization has made its mark, the celebration still reflects Catholic reverence for the Virgin Mary. No matter the date or tradition, one thing is for sure: Latin America goes all out to celebrate its mothers.

Whether it’s through music, prayer, food, or spending quality time with loved ones, the region finds powerful and heartfelt ways to honor the women who hold everything together.