By Khyria Cepe

Mongolia is set apart from the rest of the world when it comes to Mother’s Day celebrations, as it celebrated on two occasions throughout the year:  as an official holiday on March 8th as the world celebrates International Women’s Day (IWD) and on June 1st during the Mother’s and Children’s Day. Though the IWD celebration started out as a political event aimed to empower women all over the world, this event has become an occasion similar to Valentines’ Day and the usual Mother’s Day celebrated in the United States.

Women, especially mothers and grandmothers, are the focus on both events. They are honored with presents such as flowers, jewelry, and chocolates. Special events for women are also scheduled. During International Women’s Day, also called “Emegteichuudiin Bayar” in Mongolian, conferences and concerts are held to acclaim the contributions of extraordinary women in the community. Exemplary women are recognized with medals or awards; this practice dates back to the Socialist era, when mothers were acknowledged by the government for raising many children.

Traditionally, however, Mother’s Day  has been combined with Children’s Day, an event for mothers and their children to bond, making it truly a family affair. For example, in Ulaanbaata , fun activities such as circus performances, carnivals, competitions, and fairs are held in places such as the Sukhbaatar Square, the Children’s Park, Zaisan Hill and Buddha Garden, and the Tuul River beach. The well-organized festivities are highly anticipated by tourists and locals alike. Even Mongolian mothers and children living in the United States, miles away from home, do not forget this event. Every year, festivals are organized so that Mongolian children will not forget this part of their heritage.

Having a two-part celebration every year clearly shows that the people of Mongolia highly regard their mothers. This is also reflected in their music and literature, where they laud  mothers for their role in taking care of children, the elderly, and the sick.