The sun-kissed sands of Puerto Peñasco are calling you, whispering promises of turquoise waves and unforgettable memories. Picture this: toes digging into the warm sand, laughter echoing amidst the soothing waves, and the joy of celebrating the ones who nurtured you – your parents. If you are lucky enough to have a Mother and/or a Father, especially still living, I hope you will be celebrating with them this year.
Mother’s Day in the United States has its origins in the early 1900s, spearheaded by Anna Jarvis, who wanted to honor her own mother. Mexico’s Dia de las Madres, celebrated on May 10th, regardless of the day it falls on may have been influenced by this movement but has its own distinct history, possibly dating back to 1913. Meanwhile, Father’s Day, celebrated the third Sunday of June in the U.S., arrived even later, with the first official celebrations happening in the 1920s.
I always thought, that Hallmark, the greeting card company, was credited with creating Mother’s Day. However, through my research, while Hallmark certainly capitalized on the holiday’s popularity, the true credit belongs to Anna Jarvis and her unwavering determination. Anna Jarvis, a determined daughter who yearned to honor her own mother’s legacy of community service and love. In 1908, Anna successfully lobbied for a national holiday dedicated to mothers, and by 1914, President Woodrow Wilson officially declared the second Sunday of May as Mother’s Day.
Across the border, Mexico’s Dia de las Madres (Mother’s Day) may have been influenced by this movement. However, the exact origins remain a bit of a mystery, with some historians suggesting a connection to earlier celebrations of motherhood dating back to 1913. Regardless of the precise starting point, Dia de las Madres has become a cherished tradition in Mexico, overflowing with love and appreciation for mothers.
Mexico’s Father’s Day: A Fiesta for Papá! Like the United States, Mexico celebrates Father’s Day on the third Sunday of June (Día del Padre). This day is dedicated to expressing gratitude for fathers and father figures, often involving family gatherings, special meals, and heartfelt gifts. Whether it’s a handmade card from a child or a relaxing day spent fishing with Dad, the focus is on strengthening the bond between fathers and their families.
Father’s Day in the United States is a much younger tradition to Mother’s Day. The concept gained traction in the 1910s and 1920s, with Sonora Dodd, (Don’t you love her first name!) a woman from Spokane, Washington, playing a pivotal role in its establishment. Inspired by the way her single father raised her and her siblings, Sonora lobbied for a day to recognize and honor fathers. Her efforts culminated in the first official Father’s Day celebration in Spokane in 1910, though it wasn’t until 1972 that President Richard Nixon signed it into law as a national holiday celebrated on the third Sunday of June.
So, are there different traditions North and South of the Border?
In the United States, Mother’s Day often involves brunch, flowers, and heartfelt cards. Mexico celebrates with similar fervor, with families gathering for meals, showering moms with gifts (often carnations), and serenade-filled evenings with mariachi bands. Father’s Day in the U.S. typically involves barbeques and dad-centric gifts. In Mexico, the focus shifts to expressing gratitude and spending quality time together.
Now, imagine combining the warmth of these traditions with the breathtaking beauty of Puerto Peñasco. Picture a Mother’s Day sunrise yoga session on the beach, the gentle waves providing the perfect soundtrack to relaxation and reflection. Afterward, treat Mom to a traditional Mexican breakfast or brunch overlooking the Sea of Cortez, the sun painting the sky with vibrant hues. Moms love spa days too! And, we have plenty of awesome places to pamper. In May many spas and restaurants are offering Mother’s Day specials.
For Father’s Day, plan an adventurous day of kayaking or paddleboarding, exploring the lagoons of Islas Del Mar, where one can rent kayaks at The Crane (golf clubhouse), and witness the incredible marine life and nature sanctuary. In the evening, gather the family for a delicious authentic meal, the aroma of sizzling carne asada filling the air with a taste of Mexico.
“A mother’s love is the fuel that allows a normal human being to do the impossible.” – Marion C. Garretty (English)
“El amor de una madre es el combustible que permite a un ser humano normal hacer lo imposible.” – Marion C. Garretty (Spanish)
“One father is more than a hundred teachers.” – George Herbert (English)
“Un padre vale más que cien maestros.” – George Herbert (Spanish)
On a final note, I think the bests gift is the gift of togetherness, and if you can combine that with a weekend at the beautiful Sea of Cortez, I think your gratitude will be obvious. There’s something about being together with your family at the beach that creates special memories to last a lifetime. While Mother’s Day and Father’s Day deserve special attention, the love for our parents transcends specific dates. The best gift we can offer them is the gift of our time, our love, and our presence. Soak up the sun in Puerto Peñasco, create memories that will last a lifetime, and let the magic of this Mexican paradise strengthen the bonds with your family. As the Mexican saying goes, “En familia hay Felicidad” (There is happiness in family).
“Of all the gifts that life has to offer, a loving mother is the greatest of them all.” — Unknown
