Many stereotypes exist about the Italian mamma.  What is certainly true is that wherever in the world they may be, Italian mothers are still the main focus of the family and family traditions.  Although mothers are respected and appreciated all year round, the “official” Mother’s Day … known as “La Festa della Mamma” … is celebrated in Italy at the same time we celebrate it here, the second Sunday in May.  It’s not a public holiday, but it’s certainly a time when families try very hard to come together to celebrate.

In Italy, la mamma (the mom) is the cornerstone of the home and celebrated by her family all year round.  Still, every second Sunday of May, everyone jumps to lavish their mothers with flowers and gifts for La Festa della Mamma.

 

Mother’s Day was first celebrated in Italy in May 1957, about 50 years after it was founded here in the U.S.  A     parish priest began the tradition in Assisi, a beautiful hillside town in Umbria, with great festivities.  Many in the  surrounding cities got word and joined the appreciation of the women whose unconditional love and hard work helped them become who they are.  The day was so successful that just one year later, the holiday was adopted across Italy’s 20 regions!

 

Today, Mother’s Day is more widely celebrated than ever.  Young or old, children strive to visit their family home in time for La Festa della Mamma.  As more children move further away from their families, they send gifts and make long distance calls.  In fact, urban legend has it that Italy's phone companies record their highest volume of calls on Mother’s Day.  But beyond cards and gifts, just like us, they value quality time, whether they send their mothers (or mother figures) something she’ll love or whether they enjoy a meal with her.

  

Here are some adorable phrases in Italian to surprise your Mamma with …

 

Amor di madre, amore senza limiti … which translates to … A mother’s love has no limits.

 

Qual la madre, tal la figlia … which translates to … Like mother, like daughter!  (My personal favorite!)

 

Una buona mamma vale cento maestre … which translates to … A good mother is worth a hundred teachers.

 

 As we gather with our family and friends to celebrate Mother’s Day, take a moment to think about the quiet strength, endless love, and unwavering support our mothers, grandmothers, aunts, cousins, sisters, best friends, or mentors have given us over the years.  Whether near or far, with us in person or in memory, their impact is forever a part of who we are.  So on Mother’s Day (and every day for that matter) honor them with gratitude, love, and the recognition they so deeply deserve.

 

Buona Festa della Mamma a Tutti!!!

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The meaning of the pink and white carnation on Mother’s Day:  It's believed that the colorful petals represent a beating heart and a mother's love. Historically, women wore a white carnation to honor a mother who passed away and a pink carnation to honor a mother still living,

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