Mother's Day

Mother's Day History

Mother's Day is dedicated to honoring and celebrating the mothers and mother figures who have positively impacted the lives of their children and families. This observance focuses on expressing gratitude, love, and appreciation for all the sacrifices that mothers have made and continue to make, ensuring the happiness and well-being of their children. Across the country, many people mark the occasion by giving gifts, writing sentimental cards, and spending quality time with their mothers.

The tradition of Mother's Day is rooted in the affirmation of the importance played by women, particularly mothers, in society. Though the origins of this celebration can be traced back to ancient Greek and Roman festivals dedicated to mother goddesses, the modern version of Mother's Day began at the turn of the twentieth century in the United States. The dedication to mothers soon spread to other countries, including the Netherlands, where it took on a uniquely Dutch celebration with flowers, adornments, and delicious meals.

In the Netherlands, Mother’s Day is an opportunity for the whole family to come together and make their mother feel appreciated, respected, and loved, recognizing her contributions to their lives and society in general. Mother's Day falls on the second Sunday in May each year, coinciding with the blooming of spring flowers.

Mother's Day facts

• Julia Ward Howe, the author of The Battle Hymn of the Republic, came up with the notion of a Mother's Day in 1870. In a proclamation, she urged mothers to take a stand against sons killing the sons of other mothers.
• In the animal kingdom, Orangutan moms are the "primate champion" of motherhood, having the longest dependent care period among great apes, with their offspring weaning off at about 6 to 7 years old.
• The Netherlands has a high fertility rate as compared to the EU average. In 2019, the Dutch fertility rate was 1.58 children per woman, slightly below the replacement level of 2.1.
• Dutch mothers often work part-time to balance work and family life. According to the OECD statistics, around 75% of Dutch mothers work part-time, one of the highest rates in the world.

In the News and Trending in Netherlands for Mother's Day

Top things to do in Netherlands for Mother's Day

• Send mom and grandma flowers. You can either pick them up and deliver them yourself if you are nearby or use one of many online services that ship directly to her door.
• Give mom a gift she will really appreciate - a day at the spa or a weekend off.
• The Concertgebouw in Amsterdam holds a special Mother's Day concert every year. The concert features the Residentie Orkest and a range of classical music pieces.
• Landgoed Rhederoord in Arnhem offers a special Mother's Day brunch, featuring a variety of organic and locally sourced dishes.