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Mothers Day 2026: History of National Mothers Day on August 12 and When It Was First Celebrated

Calendar10 Aug 2026 14:22 GMT+7

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Mothers Day 2026: History of National Mothers Day on August 12 and When It Was First Celebrated

Mother's Day 2026 It falls on August 12 every year and is an important day in Thailand that gives children the chance to express love, gratitude, and remember their mothers' kindness. At the same time, August 12 is significant as it coincides with the birthday of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother

Thairath Online invites you to look back at the history of National Mother's Day along with the meaning of the “ jasmine flower ,” a symbol that represents a mother's pure love.

What is the origin of National Mother's Day 2026, and when was it first celebrated?

The organization of Thailand's National Mother's Day has a long history spanning several decades. The first event was held on March 10, 1943 at Suan Amporn Park, organized by the Ministry of Public Health. However, since it was during World War II, there were many restrictions and inconveniences, so the event was temporarily suspended.

Later, in 1950, the government designated April 15 as National Mother's Day, but the celebrations stopped again. Then on October 4, 1972, the Catholic Teachers Association of Thailand organized a Mother's Day event once more.

Finally, in 1976, the Executive Committee of the Social Welfare Council of Thailand under Royal Patronage designated August 12 each year as National Mother's Day because it coincides with the birthday of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother. Since then, August 12 has been observed as National Mother's Day to this day.

Mother's Day Slogan for August 12, 2026

“A mother's grace beyond description,
engraved deeply beyond time, like
a mother's hard-to-find gratitude, nothing can repay,
good deeds announced for the world to praise.”

ย้อนประวัติวันแม่แห่งชาติ 12 สิงหาคม มีความเป็นมาอย่างไร

Is school closed on National Mother's Day 2026?

Mother's Day 2026 falls on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, and is a public holiday in Thailand. Many families take this opportunity to travel home, share meals, or spend time together.

Government agencies, schools, and organizations typically hold activities for Mother's Day, such as ceremonies to offer blessings, flag and light decorations in honor of the Queen, and contestsfor Mother's Day slogans,as well as activities focusing on the mother-child relationship.

Why is the “jasmine flower” the symbol of National Mother's Day?

When mentioning the symbol of National Mother's Day, many think of the “ jasmine flower ,” which is white and fragrant, blooming year-round. The white color symbolizes the pure love and goodwill a mother has for her child, while the lasting fragrance represents the enduring love and bond. It is customary to offer jasmine garlands to mothers to express love, respect, and blessings on Mother's Day.

What activities can you do on National Mother's Day 2026?

Showing love to your mother doesn't require expensive gifts; what matters is the intention and spending time together. Popular activities on Mother's Day include:

  • offering jasmine garlands to your mother and asking for her blessings,
  • telling her you love her or writing thank-you cards,
  • taking your mother and family out for a meal together,
  • helping with housework or cooking for your mother,
  • taking your mother on a trip or doing activities she enjoys,
  • calling or video-calling your mother if you cannot visit her in person.

National Mother's Day, August 12, 2026, is not only an important date on the calendar but also an opportunity for many to show love and gratitude to their mothers—whether by offering blessings, giving jasmine flowers, sharing meals, or simply spending time together. These small gestures can be meaningful gifts on Mother's Day.

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