By Katherine Krakhmal

Motherhood has always been honored in Estonia, but it wasn’t until July 3rd, 1923, that the first official Mother’s Day was celebrated. The custom continued until 1940 when Estonia was annexed by the Soviet Union. The holiday shifted from a mother’s day celebration to a woman’s day festivity, International Woman’s Day, which is typically celebrated on March 8th . In 1988, upon regaining their independence, Estonians began celebrating Mother’s Day again and in 1992 the official date was set to the second Sunday of May.

In as much as Woman’s Day is still commemorated, Mother’s Day in May is set aside to celebrate mothers and soon to be mothers. On this day, Estonians express their gratitude and love for their mothers, while recollecting old customs and traditions.

Streets are decorated for Mother’s Day and houses display bright flags and flowers. No mother is forgotten on that day, and many special events and celebrations take place throughout the country. Children’s matinees and concerts are held in kindergartens and schools, where children present their moms with hand-made gifts and cards and sing traditional and children’s songs dedicated to their mothers. It is said that children in Estonia aim to act as “grown up” as possible, being attentive and chivalrous, and often—if at least for that day—incredibly obedient.

Mother’s Day gives Estonian mothers a chance to relax, rejoice and be reminded of how much they are loved.

“Head emadepäeva!”