Mother’s Day is a global tradition celebrated every year on the second Sunday of May, honoring the tireless love, devotion, and self-sacrifice of mothers around the world. It’s a day where we come together to express our deepest gratitude to our mothers, acknowledging their pivotal role in our journey from infancy to adulthood.
More than a symbol of parental love, Mother’s Day invites us to value the profound mother-child bond and appreciate the ceaseless endeavors of mothers to support and direct us through life’s many twists and turns.
History of Mother’s Day
Mother’s Day traces its roots to two significant women: Julia Ward Howe and Anna Jarvis.
During the 1850s, Julia Ward Howe, known for her activism against war, advocacy for suffrage, and penning “The Battle Hymn of the Republic,” initiated the idea of dedicating a day to peace and motherhood. She arranged annual Mother’s Day gatherings in the city of Boston.
However, it was the relentless efforts of Anna Jarvis that paved the way for the formal acknowledgment of Mother’s Day. Jarvis was inspired by her mother, Ann Reeves Jarvis, who created “Mother’s Day Work Clubs” to combat public health issues and “Mother’s Friendship Day” to foster unity in the aftermath of the Civil War.
Upon the passing of her mother in 1905, Anna Jarvis sought to honor all mothers and their sacrifices for their children by promoting a dedicated day. She spearheaded a substantial campaign, writing numerous letters to newspapers and politicians urging the recognition of a distinctive day to celebrate motherhood.
Her relentless lobbying bore fruit in 1914 when President Woodrow Wilson officially decreed the second Sunday in May as Mother’s Day. Today, countries and cultures worldwide acknowledge Mother’s Day, though the dates and customs may vary.
Interestingly, it’s worth noting that Anna Jarvis later expressed concerns about the commercial exploitation of Mother’s Day. She felt the commercial aspect of selling gifts like flowers and cards overshadowed the original purpose of the day. Despite her concerns, Mother’s Day continues to be observed globally with presents and special messages for mothers everywhere.
Mother’s Day Timeline
Early Celebrations
Early Greeks and Romans held festivals honoring mother goddesses Rhea and Cybele.
Mothering Sunday
In the UK, people returned to their 'mother church' for a service to be held on the fourth Sunday of Lent.
Mother's Day Proclamation
Julia Ward Howe proposed a Mother's Day to recognize peace and protest war.
Anna Jarvis's Advocacy Begins
Anna Jarvis begins her campaign to make Mother's Day a recognized holiday in the United States.
First Mother's Day Service
Anna Jarvis organized the first official Mother's Day celebration at a local church in West Virginia.
Mother's Day Becomes Official
U.S. President Woodrow Wilson officially establishes the second Sunday in May as Mother's Day.
Commercialization of Mother's Day
Card companies and flower sellers begin heavily promoting Mother's Day.
Modern Celebrations
Mother's Day is recognized internationally, though the date and celebrations vary.
Ideas to Celebrate Mother’s Day
Breakfast in Bed
Start Mother’s Day right by surprising your mom with a homemade breakfast in bed. Include her favorite items like pancakes, fruits, coffee, or tea, and don’t forget a little flower to brighten up the serving tray.
DIY Spa Day
Create a relaxing environment with a DIY home spa day. Fill a basket with bath bombs, body scrubs, face masks, and her favorite beauty products. Join her for a mother-daughter spa session or let her enjoy some peaceful alone time.
Memory Lane Movie Night
Put together a series of family videos and pictures for a trip down memory lane. Make it even more special with popcorn, candy, and your mom's favorite movie.
Garden Picnic
Pack a picnic and head out into the garden. This is an excellent opportunity to enjoy each other's company in a relaxed setting. Set up a comfortable seating area and enjoy the nature around you while feasting on your mom's favorite foods.
Cooking Class
Sign up for a cooking class and learn to prepare a new dish together and this could serve both as a fun bonding activity and a way to appreciate her love for cookery.
Online Shopping Spree
Offer your mom a Mother's Day shopping spree, but make it stress-free by opting for online shopping. She can choose whatever she needs or wants without worrying about the cost.
Virtual Family Gathering
If your family isn't in the same location, organize a virtual family gathering. Coordinate with relatives near and far to join a video call and take turns telling your mom how much you all appreciate her.
7 Interesting Facts About Mother’s Day
Origin of Mother's Day
The modern celebration of Mother's Day began in the United States in the early 20th century. It was started by Anna Jarvis in memory of her mother, Ann Reeves Jarvis, who had been a community health advocate.
Different Dates Worldwide
Mother's Day is not celebrated on the same date worldwide. While many countries celebrate it on the second Sunday in May, others have different dates due to cultural or religious reasons.
Mother's Day’s Official Flower
The carnation is the official flower of Mother's Day. Anna Jarvis chose white carnations to honor her mother because they were her mother's favorite flower.
High Volume of Phone Calls
Mother's Day boasts the highest volume of phone calls of any day in the year. It's estimated that more than 122 million phone calls are made to moms on Mother's Day in the United States.
One of the Biggest Holidays for Consumer Spending
Mother's Day ranks third in consumer spending—after Christmas and Valentine's Day—with people spending billions to honor their mothers.
Most Popular Gift
Cards are the most common gift for Mother's Day. It is estimated that approximately 152 million Mother's Day cards are sent each year.
Mother’s Day in Different Cultures
Many Arab countries celebrate Mother's Day on March 21st, the first day of spring. In the UK, it's celebrated on the fourth Sunday of Lent, also known as 'Mothering Sunday'.
Mother’s Day FAQs
Next Mother’s Day Dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | May 14th | Sunday |
| 2024 | May 12th | Sunday |
| 2025 | May 11th | Sunday |
| 2026 | May 10th | Sunday |
| 2027 | May 9th | Sunday |
| What is the pattern? | Second Sunday of May | |
Mother’s Day Word Search
- Mother
- Love
- Flowers
- Caring
- Family
- Presents