By Lacey Johnson

Spain and Portugal share not only the Iberian Peninsula but they share a lot of culture and traditions as well.  Both countries are what we would call relatively “matriarchal” in nature.  This can be seen as rooting from the strong religious beliefs appearing in both countries.   One particular holiday that is consistent between the two countries is Mother’s Day.  Mother’s Day is celebrated in these two countries on December 8.  It is celebrated in conjunction with the Feast of Immaculate Conception and is known as the “kick-off” to the entire Christmas season.

Unlike the majority of Western cultures and other European cultures, the Portuguese and the Spaniards celebrate Mother’s Day more out of respect for the Virgin Mother, Mary mother of Jesus, than they do out of honor for their own individual mothers.  This day is held on a day rooted in religion and is known to be a very holy and emotional day throughout both countries. The largest celebration in Spain is held in Seville.

The traditions that children currently partake in have not changed much through the centuries and also do not vary much between the two countries.  Just like in Western cultures it is traditional to give ones’ mother flowers, chocolates and cards.  The difference between this culture and the Western culture is that the majority of these gifts given are homemade, which is thought to be more genuine.  The day is celebrated with local dances and “fiestas.” 

Like in most other countries, there is a flower of choice on this day and that flower is the white rose.  The white rose is thought to signify the strength and devotion that it takes a mother to raise her young.  By far, the most significant tradition within this country is that the majority of children throughout the country create cards for the presidents’ wife.  These cards along with a bouquet of red roses and mixed flowers are delivered to the presidents’ wife by a select group of children.

“Feliz dia da mãe” – “Feliz día de la madre”