Every year, March 8 marks International Women's Day, a global celebration the women who make a difference in our lives.

Beyond supporting women-owned businesses and donating to organizations that uplift women, a popular tradition is gifting flowers on this day.

Continue reading to explore the rich history of International Women's Day, this year's theme, and the significance of flowers in celebrating this important occasion!

What Is International Women's Day?

International Women's Day (IWD) is a global observance recognized by the United Nations to celebrate the incredible contributions women make across all sectors of society. It serves as a reminder of the work still required to reach gender equality, highlighting areas where progress needs to be made for women to enjoy equal rights and opportunities worldwide.

While the day officially focuses on gender equality, many people also use it to reflect on the individual women who have made significant impacts in their lives, sharing quotes, messages, and gestures of appreciation. It's an opportunity to the women who have shaped our world in countless ways.

Official Women's Day Flower Symbolism

The origins of International Women's Day stretch back over a century, with its first observance taking place across various European and American countries. However, it wasn’t until March 8, 1946, that Italian feminists adopted the mimosa flower as the official symbol of IWD. The mimosa was selected for its deep symbolism, representing strength, sensitivity, and resilience—qualities that embody women’s enduring spirit.

Since that time, gifting flowers has become an integral part of International Women's Day celebrations. The mimosa flower remains a symbol of solidarity, though other flowers also hold significant meaning in women on this special occasion.

For example, roses are a popular choice for International Women’s Day, symbolizing love, admiration, and respect. Roses make for a meaningful gift, perfectly conveying appreciation and acknowledging the power and contributions of women worldwide.

How to Participate in the Flower-Giving Tradition

Embracing the spirit of International Women's Day doesn’t have to be difficult—one simple way to show appreciation is by gifting flowers to the remarkable women in your life. Whether it’s a grand bouquet of roses or a single bloom, flowers carry a meaningful message of gratitude, acknowledgment, and solidarity.

You can order flower deliveries ahead of time or make a special trip to your local florist to pick out a bouquet that speaks to the importance of this day. Even if you're not near a flower shop, consider taking part in the tradition by offering individual blooms to the women you encounter throughout the day, spreading messages of kindness and empowerment.

International Women's Day is more than just a celebration; it is a call to action for gender equality and a reminder of the progress we’ve yet to make!