Mother’s Day
Mother’s Day is a heartfelt occasion celebrated worldwide, and in Italy, it holds a special place as La Festa della Mamma. In 2025, this cherished day falls on Sunday, May 11th, aligning with the tradition of observing it on the second Sunday of May.
The Origins of Mother’s Day
The modern celebration of Mother’s Day traces back to the early 20th century in the United States. Inspired by her mother’s activism, Anna Jarvis organized the first official Mother’s Day in 1908. Her mother, Ann Reeves Jarvis, had previously established “Mother’s Day Work Clubs” to improve health and sanitation. Anna’s efforts culminated in President Woodrow Wilson declaring it a national holiday in 1914. Interestingly, Anna Jarvis later became disillusioned with the commercialization of the holiday, feeling that the true essence of honoring mothers was being overshadowed by consumerism.
Italian Traditions and Celebrations
In Italy, Mother’s Day (La Festa della Mamma) is celebrated on the second Sunday of May, aligning with many other countries. It’s a day dedicated to expressing love and appreciation for mothers through various customs:
- Flowers: People buy flowers because they have a secret message. Roses and lilies, for example, symbolize love and purity. I say, buy the flowers your mum loves; don’t care about the flower message.
- Family Gatherings: Join the family to honor moms. Have a brunch or a quick coffee break—something that can make her day.
- Handwritten Notes: Children and adults write heartfelt letters or poems to express gratitude: simple words on nice paper always make a difference, and they can be the best gift ever.
Growing up in Italy, I remember crafting handmade cards with pressed flowers for my mother, a tradition that brought us immense joy.
Childhood Memories of Mother’s Day in Italy
I am Italian, and Mother’s Day has always been a special occasion for our family.
I remember waking up early, and my father helped me to prepare breakfast for my mom Eliana. We’d make her favorite breakfast and bring it to her in bed. The joy on her face when we surprised her was priceless.
Later in the day, the entire family would gather for a lavish lunch. My grandmother would prepare her signature lasagna, and we’d all contribute by setting the table and assisting in the kitchen. These moments taught me the importance of family and the deep appreciation for the matriarchs who hold us together. My gift for her? When I was a child, we always made something by hand at school. Growing up, I always did something personalized: a gift card or something personalized.
10 Thoughtful Mother’s Day Gift Ideas
Finding the right gift for your mom is never easy, because every year you want to show her just how much you love her and how deeply you appreciate everything she’s always done for you. Luckily, though, we have plenty of options to choose from:
- Personalized Jewelry: Engraved necklaces or bracelets add a personal touch.
- Spa Gift Set: Luxurious bath products for a relaxing experience.
- Customized Photo Album: A collection of cherished memories.
- Cooking Class Enrollment: For mothers who love culinary adventures.
- Handwritten Letter: A heartfelt note expressing your appreciation.
- Subscription Box: Monthly deliveries of her favorite items, from teas to books.
- Gardening Kit: Tools and seeds for the green-thumbed mom.
- Artisanal Chocolates: A selection of gourmet sweets.
- Personalized Calendar: Featuring family photos and important dates.
- Weekend Getaway: A planned trip to a destination she loves.
Looking for an original idea for your mom that’s also made in Italy? Visit this website and get in touch with Raffaele, a friend who goes by the name Bacco Geppetto—yes, just like in the famous story of Pinocchio.
“Bacco,” the Italian name for Bacchus, the Roman god of wine—let’s just say he’s got a passion for wine, too. Visit his website by clicking here