Día de la Madre: how Spanish mothers are celebrated (without the perfume ads)

Earlier this year, I celebrated my first Spanish Father’s Day — in March — while the rest of Europe wasn’t even thinking about it yet. By now, I’ve learned: holidays here don’t just fall on different dates — they feel different too. And Día de la Madre, or Mother’s Day, is no exception.

This Sunday, I expect to see the same scene as last year at the market in Jávea: flowers, cakes, baskets, and people with huge smiles. “Feliz día, mamá!” echoes from cafés and across terraces. And while the rest of Europe still thinks Mother’s Day is a week away, Spain already knows: now is the time to celebrate mamá.

No handmade crafts or breakfast in bed

What struck me most is the different vibe around Mother’s Day here. It’s less commercial. No weeks of perfume ads, no supermarket campaigns offering “worldly wines for worldly mothers.” Día de la Madre feels less rehearsed.

Here, it’s all about being together for a moment, with a cake on the table and a good meal shared with family. It’s not about presents, but about attention. Often, literally: children calling or showing up at the door with something small but sweet.

In Spain, it’s all about simplicity (but with plenty of food).

Most Spanish mothers don’t expect extravagant surprises. A bouquet of flowers, a slice of tarta de Santiago, a glass of vermouth on the terrace. Some head to the mountains for a picnic, while others cook together with their children.

And everyone seems to accept that it’s not about the gesture itself, but about the ritual of celebrating together. While we Dutch sometimes struggle with “should we do something for Mother’s Day?”, Spain seems to say: of course you do something — but don’t overcomplicate it.

“Spanish mothers are sacred”

A friend of mine said recently, “In Spain, your mother is the holiest. She’s just below the Virgin María.” I laughed, but it also sounded true. Spanish mothers have a kind of mythical status. They can involve themselves in everything, are always available, and if you haven’t been in touch for a week, you’ll be kindly but firmly urged to make a visita rápida (quick visit).

Día de la Madre always falls on the first Sunday of May. So, if you think you’ve got another week to prepare — think again. Your phone might act like it’s not time yet, but Spain moves to a different rhythm. And I’ve learned that by now, especially since I paid tribute to Spanish dads back in March.

Personal tip: Don’t forget the cake!

Want to really score points? Skip the perfume and grab something from the local bakery — preferably with almond, lemon, or anise. And stay a while for a chat.
In Spain, Mother’s Day isn’t just a moment, it’s an atmosphere.

And once you’ve felt it, you’ll understand exactly why it’s not about presents — but all about attention.