As Mexican families prepare to celebrate Mother’s Day this weekend, the Kewanee Hispanic Heritage Committee is hosting a special event called "Baile Noche De Madres" on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at the Flemish American Club. This dance commemorates Mexican Mother’s Day, a cherished occasion that honors the pivotal role mothers play in families and society.
The dance is open to all ages and genders, with a special provision: attendees aged 15 years and under can enter for free when accompanied by an adult. Tickets are reasonably priced at $15 each or $25 per couple, and each ticket includes complimentary raffle tickets. Local businesses have generously donated ten baskets, which will be raffled off during the event. The festivities will run from 7 p.m. to midnight, with the Azteca food truck serving delicious food from 7 to 10 p.m. A DJ will provide music, specialty drinks will be available, and a kids’ table is planned to keep the little ones entertained.
Proceeds from the dance will not only support future community events but will also help fund a new September Independence event and scholarships for local students. This initiative highlights the committee's commitment to enhancing community engagement and supporting education.
Interestingly, May is also a significant month for remittances sent from the U.S. to Mexico, particularly due to the “Mother’s Day effect.” According to recent surveys, May typically sees the highest volume of remittances, surpassing even December during the holiday season. A survey conducted by Zapp, a platform for sending money via WhatsApp, revealed that about 67% of respondents plan to make a special transfer to their mothers on May 10, the day celebrated as Mother’s Day in Mexico.
On average, users send around $360 USD to their mothers on this day, reflecting a deep cultural connection and commitment to family. This tradition has roots in the longstanding Mexican practice of honoring mothers, which dates back to 1922 when journalist Rafael Alducin initiated the celebration of Mother’s Day.
BBVA Research’s Migration and Remittances Observatory notes that remittances are often used for various purposes, including savings, everyday expenses, and celebrations honoring mothers, aunts, sisters, and grandmothers. The survey also found that 79% of respondents send money directly to their mothers, while others distribute it through relatives like sisters or children.
In recent years, the volume of remittances sent during May has increased significantly, with a 6.5% rise noted between 2019 and 2023 when compared to the adjacent months of April and June. In 2024, Mexico recorded an impressive 14.8 million remittance transactions, marking a 1.4% annual increase and the highest level ever recorded. However, the average remittance amount saw a slight decrease to $381, down 2.3% compared to May 2023.
Mexican Mother’s Day, or Día de las Madres, has a rich history that began when Alducin called for a national celebration to honor mothers. The decision to celebrate on May 10 has remained unchanged since its inception. This day is not only a time for family gatherings but also a moment to reflect on the sacrifices and contributions of mothers throughout Mexican history.
In Southern California, the Los Angeles County Fair is hosting special celebrations for both Día de las Madres and the traditional U.S. Mother’s Day. On May 10, renowned Mexican artist Alicia Villareal will perform a special show at the fair, alongside Mariachi Vargas, starting at 7:30 p.m. Tickets for the event are available online, starting at $57.85.
Additionally, the fair will host a Mother’s Day Brunch on Sunday, May 11, offering a delightful buffet experience for families. For $44.99, attendees can enjoy a brunch buffet, admission to the fair, and a ticket to see Chris Young perform that night. This dual celebration of motherhood highlights the cultural importance of both Mexican and American traditions.
For those looking to celebrate in El Paso, Texas, a variety of restaurants are offering special brunches for Mother’s Day weekend. Mesa Street Grill will host a brunch featuring Lobster Tacos and Crème Brûlée cheesecake on May 10 and 11. The Hotel Paso del Norte will offer a "Mamas & Mimosas" brunch buffet, complete with seafood selections and made-to-order omelets. Reservations are highly recommended due to limited seating.
Another option is Casanova Ristorante, which will present a Mexican-style buffet on May 11, accompanied by a live performance from Mariachi Reyes Coronado. Families are encouraged to make reservations early to ensure a spot.
As communities across the U.S. and Mexico gear up for these celebrations, the significance of Mother’s Day resonates deeply. It’s a day to honor not just biological mothers but all maternal figures who play a crucial role in nurturing and guiding families. The heartfelt traditions of Día de las Madres reflect a broader cultural appreciation for motherhood, emphasizing love, respect, and familial ties.
In the spirit of celebration, families are reminded to cherish and honor the mothers in their lives, whether through gatherings, gifts, or simply spending quality time together. As the saying goes, every day should be Mother’s Day, a sentiment echoed by many as they celebrate the women who have shaped their lives.
