Mothers are amazing. They have a great influence on all of us. To show our appreciation for the sacrifices that our mom’s make for us, Thai people celebrate Mother’s Day on August 12, the birthday of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit. But what about other parts of the world? When and how do they honour their mothers? S Weekly chatted with international students who told us about Mother’s Day in their countries.

Like many countries, we celebrate Mother’s Day on the second Sunday in May. I like to write a card for my mom and give her a bouquet of flowers along with a gift, like accessories or chocolates. My most memorable Mother’s Day was when I was 7. My two brothers, my mom’s friend and I secretly made her a special meal. That was the first time my brothers and I did something for her together.

Kaori Okuzono,
17, from Japan

South Korea doesn’t celebrate Mother’s Day. Instead, we have Parents’ Day on May 8, where we spend time with both mom and dad. We usually go out for dinner and give our parents a carnation that we’ve made or bought. We also make cards as thank you presents for them. My favourite memory was when I was able to spend the day with both of my parents. We usually celebrate without my dad because he works abroad.

Esther Kim,
15, from South Korea

Mother’s Day in Mexico is always on May 10. Traditionally, people invite mariachis to sing in their houses at midnight and schools have activities and festivals to celebrate mothers. In my family, like many others, we have a big lunch where the whole family gets together, including grandmothers, aunts and cousins. We give our mom gifts and flowers. My most memorable Mother’s Day was two years ago when we flew to Mexico City so we could all celebrate together as a big family.

Tania Monroy,
16, from Mexico

We celebrate Mother’s Day on May 27. We usually give them cards or flowers or make them breakfast to show that we love and appreciate them. I’ve never spent Mother’s Day with my mom because we don’t live together, but I always spend hours on the phone with her, just talking and laughing. I always send her a card and make sure that when we meet, my time with her is well-spent.

Sophie Happi,
16 from France

This year, Mother’s Day in Canada was on May 13. I usually go out for tea with my mom. Afterwards, we have dinner together as a family. At the end of the day, I give her a gift, usually some perfume or body lotion. One of my most memorable Mother’s Days was last year when I took my mom out for afternoon tea, followed by a fancy dinner. She was really happy.

Ben Fyfe,
15, from Canada

Our Mother’s Day is on the second Sunday in May. In my family, it’s a rest day for mom. My father and I do chores like sweeping the floor, doing laundry or washing dishes so mom doesn’t have to. Even though I feel tired after doing the housework, every Mother’s Day is memorable for me.

Justin Lee,
17, from Taiwan