Mother's Day in Norway

History and Traditions

Mother's Day, or "Morsdag" in Norwegian, is a special day dedicated to honoring and celebrating mothers within families and society at large. In Norway, Mother's Day is observed on the second Sunday of February, unlike many other countries that celebrate it in May. The celebration of Mother's Day in Norway was first introduced by religious organizations in the early 20th century and has since become a widely recognized occasion.

The day is marked by showing appreciation for mothers and mother figures. Traditional celebrations might include serving them breakfast in bed, giving them handmade cards or gifts, and spending quality family time together. Flowers, particularly red carnations as symbols of love and admiration, are commonly given to mothers on this day.

Current Practices

On Mother's Day in Norway:

• Gift-giving: Children often give presents to their mothers, which may include homemade crafts or purchased items that reflect their appreciation.
• Meals: Families may gather for a special meal, either prepared at home or enjoyed at a restaurant.
• Quality time: It is common for families to spend the day together engaging in activities enjoyed by the mother.
• Recognition: Many use the occasion to publicly express gratitude to their mothers through social media posts or gatherings.

Although not an official public holiday, Mother's Day holds sentimental value and is an opportunity for Norwegian families to pause from their daily routines and acknowledge the contributions of mothers to family life and society.