Mother's Day in Nordic Countries, Plus 6 Gift Ideas!

Mothers day in the US is just around the corner so why not honor them with something unique! Mother’s Day festivities in Nordic countries are similar to American traditions, but vary slightly from country to country. Take a look at how each country celebrates their mothers!

Finland

Celebrated on the second Sunday in May, Äitienpäivä has been observed in Finland since 1918, and became a formal holiday in 1947. Mother’s day in Finland is considered a national flag day- meaning that flags are raised throughout the country in honor of the celebration. Children usually have a special gathering at school for mothers where they enjoy tea, coffee, and baked goods. It is also an annual tradition for the president to honor about 30 mothers and mother figures with honorary medals of the White Rose Order. Children will often make cards and pick wildflowers such as Wood Anemones for their mothers as well.  

Sweden

Mother’s day in Sweden is always celebrated on the last Sunday in May. Mors Dag was first celebrated in 1919 after Swedish author Cecilia Bååth-Holmberg proposed adopting the tradition from the US. A typical mother’s day celebration in Sweden includes flying the Swedish flag, preparing breakfast in bed for the honoree, making handmade cards, and picking wild daffodils- which are readily available during the last week of May. Many families also take the day to enjoy an outdoor activity. Some lucky moms may even be serenaded with a special song while enjoying breakfast in bed!

Denmark

Mors Dag in Denmark is also celebrated on the second Sunday in May, and was first observed in 1929. Bakeries and florists are especially busy during this time making special Mors Day cakes and floral arrangements. Children will serve breakfast in bed, and allow for a chore-free day. Special commemorative plates have been released each year since 1969 by the two major Danish porcelain companies.    

Norway

Unlike the majority of Nordic countries, Mother’s day in Norway is always celebrated on the second Sunday in February. The first Morsdag celebration in Norway took place in Bergen on February 19, 1919, and was originally a religious celebration. Gifts of chocolates, baked goods and flowers are typically gifted to moms on this special day.  

Iceland

Mothers day or Mæðradagurinn in Iceland is always celebrated on the second Sunday in May. Adopted from the American holiday, it was first celebrated in 1934. Though it is not recognized as an official holiday, Mother's Day is widely celebrated across the country. Treats and flowers are exchanged, and the whole family takes the day to do something fun together!

Mothers with their children crossing the street in downtown Reykjavík around the year 1956. Photo from the Perlan museum.

6 Gifts We Love for Mother's Day

There are so many options at NØRDIK when it comes to finding the perfect gift for a loved one! Here are some of our favorites for Mother's Day! 

The timeless scarf to match any style 

This new two tone scarf from Lapuan Kankurit is the perfect everyday companion. Made of 100% traceable linen, the TSAVO scarf can be worn for any occasion, and comes in two beautiful color combinations!

A place for fresh picked flowers

Following the Nordic tradition of presenting moms with handpicked flowers, this mouth-blown glass FLOWER vase from Marimekko looks great on any table. The beautiful navy blue color compliments any flower, and is guaranteed to bring joy to whoever receives it!

Shop Marimekko here

A functional work of art 

This special 2021 edition round KARTIO pitcher is a perfect statement piece to give to anyone who loves to host gatherings. This durable and sophisticated pitcher looks great empty on a shelf or full of your favorite cold beverage! Pick one up in clear or dark grey!

For the nature lover  

Give your mom a little piece of the Finnish forest with a beautiful print from Teemu Järvi Illustrations. With prints to fit any budget, these pieces of art are sure to bring serenity and joy to any wall!

Glassware to impress

Made of lead-free glass, these carefully crafted wine glasses from Iittala’s 2001 Essence collection, will last for years to come. Give mom a set to go with her favorite wine! 

Beauty meets multi-functional 

One of Lapuan Kankurit’s goals is to create multifunctional pieces that effortlessly go with any home decor. The VILLIYRTIT tablecloth made from 100% traceable European linen boasts a whimsical nature pattern. This textile also works great as a lightweight blanket or bed covering. Show mom you know her taste by choosing from three different colors! 

From all of us at NØRDIK, Happy Mother's Day, Mors Dag, Morsdag, Mæðradagurinn, and Äitienpäivä to all mothers and mother figures!

There is a story behind every design at NØRDIK- Show us how you are celebrating Mother's Day this year!