Happy Mother's Day! Before you call her to thank her for giving you life, check out these strange, international Mother’s Day traditions and see if you want to spontaneously things up this year.
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- Sweden - Mother’s Day is celebrated on the last weekend of May. Previous to the holiday, children are asked to sell small flowers around their town. Any money raised from their endeavors are used to send Mother’s with small children on a trip. If you were to celebrate in this country, expect to receive breakfast in bed, dinner, or flowers. Shutterstock
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- Pakistan - Prays are sent out country-wide to those who have lost they Mothers. During this day, all Moms are give a series of gifts as well as a lot of food! Shutterstock
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- Mexico - One of the more popular celebrations in this country, the day is hosted by the local schools and companies. Different than America, Mothers generally receive present on the eve of Mother’s Day! Shutterstock
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- India - In this country, Mother’s Day is celebrated the second weekend in May. According to Serenata Flowers, it is customary to make sure Mothers there relax on this day. If you were to live in this country, you would receive “flowers, handmade cards, and a prepared meal.” Shutterstock
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- Japan - Children in Japan are encourage to draw pictures of their Mother. Each illustration is then entered in to an exhibition and are put on display for all to see. Daughters traditionally make meals for the Mom’s that they themselves have taught them to create. If you were to celebrate Mother’s Day in Japan, expect to receive “red carnations; scarves, handkerchiefs and handbags” says Serenata Flowers. Shutterstock
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- Taiwan - Falling on the same day as Buddha’s birthday, Mother’s Day is an important holiday in their culture. This is an observed holiday that is joined by a series of parties, festivals, as well as other fun events. Shutterstock
Sarah Harley is a Hufflepuff living in NYC. When she is not traveling or talking to random animals, she is working as a script writer. Tweet her at @lumpyspacederp