Birth Traditions Around the World

A Look at How Moms Welcome Their Newborns

Welcoming a newborn is one of the most magical moments in life. Every culture around the world has its own unique way of celebrating this tiny human, showing love, protection, and hope for the future. Let’s take a journey across continents to explore some fascinating birth traditions that highlight how universal—and yet wonderfully diverse—motherhood really is.

East Asia: Celebrating Life and Longevity

In China, families often celebrate with red eggs, a symbol of happiness and good luck. It’s a joyful way to introduce the baby to relatives and friends.

In Korea, the 100-day celebration, known as Baek-il, marks a milestone in the baby’s first months, emphasizing health and survival in a time when infant mortality was higher.

In Japan, a traditional naming ceremony called Oshichiya occurs on the seventh day after birth. Families offer prayers for the baby’s health and happiness, accompanied by small gifts.

These traditions share a common theme: marking important milestones while welcoming the baby into the community.

The Middle East: Celebration and Traditional Care

In many Arab countries, newborns are celebrated with ceremonies such as the Aqiqah, where a sheep or goat is sacrificed, and the meat is shared with family and neighbors. This act symbolizes gratitude and generosity.

In some Arab communities, parents apply natural kohl (eyeliner) to the newborn’s eyes, a traditional practice believed to strengthen the baby’s vision and protect their eyes. These rituals highlight the care and attention given to newborns from the very first days of life.

Africa: Community and Naming

Across African cultures, naming ceremonies are often grand communal events. Names are chosen carefully, sometimes reflecting the day of birth or the child’s characteristics.

In many communities, babies are carried close to their mothers on their backs, symbolizing the bond between mother and child and ensuring constant care. The celebrations reinforce the idea that child-rearing is a shared responsibility.

Europe: Tradition Meets Practicality

In Scandinavian countries, it’s common for babies to spend time outdoors in their strollers—even in cold weather—believed to promote healthy sleep and resilience.

In parts of Europe, parents often host cozy home celebrations to introduce the baby to close family and friends. Small gifts like soft blankets or storybooks are shared, reflecting both care and everyday family warmth.

In Latin American countries, newborn celebrations often involve large gatherings where extended families come together. It is common for babies to receive protective gold bracelets or other small gifts from relatives.

Grandmothers play a central role during the baby’s first months, providing guidance, support, and hands-on care. The community’s involvement reflects the deep value placed on family bonds.

Unique Traditions Around the World

Some cultures have practices that may seem unusual to outsiders but carry deep meaning:

In parts of India, babies may have their eyebrows shaved early on to encourage growth.

Certain cultures have rituals surrounding the umbilical cord or belly button to symbolize protection and health.

The Common Thread

Despite differences in customs and rituals, every culture shares common values: love, protection, and community. Every parent wants to give their child the best start in life. The way it’s expressed may vary, but the intention is universal.

Whether it’s a quiet ceremony at home, a festive gathering with family, or a centuries-old tradition passed through generations, birth rituals around the world remind us that motherhood—and human care—is a shared experience across borders.

✨ Fun fact for moms: Learning about how other cultures welcome babies can be surprisingly comforting. It shows that no matter where you are, your love and care as a parent are what matter most.

What tradition does your family have when welcoming a newborn? Is there a unique or unusual custom in your culture? Share it with us in the comments!