When Is Mother’s Day and Everything You Need to Know

Mother’s Day is a heartfelt tradition celebrated across the globe, honoring the enduring love and efforts of mothers. In this guide, we delve into everything you need to know about Mother’s Day, from its historical origins and traditional celebrations to modern and unique ways to honor these special women. Whether you’re planning a cozy family gathering, looking for the perfect gift, or just curious about how different cultures celebrate this day, our detailed exploration will help you make Mother’s Day memorable and meaningful.

When Is Mother’s Day?

Mother’s Day is celebrated on different dates around the world, though in the United States it is observed on the second Sunday of May each year. In 2024, Mother’s Day in the U.S. will fall on May 12. It’s a day when families take the time to celebrate and appreciate mothers and mother figures. Other countries may have different dates; for example, the United Kingdom celebrates Mother’s Day on the fourth Sunday of Lent.

History of Mother’s Day

The Origin

The modern American version of Mother’s Day was created by Anna Jarvis in the early 20th century. It was officially recognized as a holiday in 1914 when President Woodrow Wilson signed the proclamation designating Mother’s Day to be held on the second Sunday in May as a national holiday to honor mothers.

Evolution Over the Years

Originally, Mother’s Day was a day of personal celebration between mothers and families. Over the years, it has become highly commercialized, with many businesses promoting gifts, cards, flowers, and other items as ways to honor and celebrate mothers.

Notable Historical Figures

Anna Jarvis is the most notable figure in the establishment of Mother’s Day. Despite her success in founding the holiday, she later became disillusioned with its commercialization and spent much of her later life trying to remove it from the calendar.

Traditional Ways to Celebrate Mother’s Day

Ideas for Gifts

Flowers: A classic choice that can be personalized based on the Mother’s favorite varieties.

Jewelry: Timeless pieces like necklaces or bracelets that can carry a personal touch.

Handmade Gifts: Such as art, crafts, or baked goods that show thought and effort.

Things to Do

Brunch or Dinner Out: A popular way to celebrate, allowing the family to enjoy a meal together without the hassle of cooking and cleaning.

Family Gatherings: Hosting a family event or picnic at a local park.

Personal Gestures

Handwritten Letters: Expressing love and gratitude through a personal note or card.

Spending Quality Time Together: Engaging in activities that she loves or simply spending the day at her side.

Unique and Modern Ways to Celebrate

Creative Celebration Ideas

Virtual Gatherings: Organizing a video call with family members who are far away to celebrate together.

Subscription Gifts: Subscription, such as monthly book clubs, flower delivery, or specialty food items can be enjoyed throughout the year.

Experiential Gifts

Spa Day: Booking a day of pampering with massages, facials, and relaxation.

Workshops or Classes: Experiential gifting that aligns with her interests – like cooking classes or creative arts workshops – can be fun activities mom can have on her own time.

Customized Gifts

Personalized Items: Custom-made jewelry, personalized home décor, or bespoke artwork are always great ways to show your appreciation.

Photo Gifts: Creating albums or digital photo frames that are filled with cherished memories show how much she means to you.

Making Mother’s Day Special for Different Types of Moms

Tips for Celebrating First-Time Moms

Memory Book: Help her start a memory book that captures all the “firsts” with her new baby.

Day of Rest: Offer to take over her daily duties so she can have a day to relax and rejuvenate.

Ideas for Honoring Grandmothers

Family Recipe Book: Compile a book of family recipes with notes from different family members.

Generational Photo Shoot: Arrange a photo session that includes her, her children, and her grandchildren.

Remembering Moms Who Have Passed

Memory Garden: Plant a garden or a tree in her honor as a place to visit and remember.

Charitable Donation: Make a donation to a charity that was important to her, in her name.

Mother’s Day Around the World

How Mother’s Day is Celebrated in Different Cultures

In many parts of the world, Mother’s Day is a time for family reunions, special meals, and religious services. In Thailand, for example, Mother’s Day is celebrated in August on the birthday of the queen. But in Ethiopia, families gather to sing songs and eat a large feast as part of Antrosht, a multiday celebration.

Unique Traditions from Around the World

Mexico: Known for its festive atmosphere, Mother’s Day in Mexico is celebrated with music, food, and often a serenade of “Las Mañanitas” to the Mother. The holiday is celebrated on May 10 every year.
Japan: Children often give their mothers roses or red carnations, which symbolize sweetness and endurance.
France: Day or “Fête des Mères” is typically celebrated at the end of May or in early June, depending on Pentecost. It often involves giving flowers, cakes shaped like flowers, and handwritten notes.
Brazil: Celebrated with large, multigenerational family gatherings and performances. Children often present their mothers with poems and songs. It is considered by some to be the second most important holiday in the country after Christmas.
Norway: Mother’s Day, or Morsdag, is celebrated on the second Sunday in February. It is marked by the giving of gifts and spending time together, often enjoying a family breakfast or lunch.

Celebrate Mother’s Day at Ruby Tuesday

Join us this Mother’s Day at Ruby Tuesday for an unforgettable celebration! We’re starting early at 10AM with fantastic drink specials, including $6 Bloody Mary’s, $6 glasses of wine, and $6 signature Ruby Relaxers. Indulge in our extensive all-you-can-eat Garden Bar, offering fresh and vibrant salad options, and don’t miss out on our Ruby’s Favorites like the Hickory Bourbon Chicken or Chicken Broccoli Pasta.

For families, our kids meals are always a hit at just $6.99, ensuring everyone leaves with a smile. Plus, take advantage of our special gift card promotion until June 23, 2024: get $30 for $25 or $60 for $50. Whether dining in our welcoming restaurant or opting for pickup or delivery, make this Mother’s Day truly special with Ruby Tuesday.

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Things to do for Mother’s Day

Explore a curated list of 13 memorable Mother’s Day activities designed to make Mother’s Day extra special. From intimate gatherings to fun outings, discover memorable ways to celebrate and honor the incredible women in our lives.

Mother’s Day Lunch Ideas

Delight mom with a memorable Mother’s Day lunch using our collection of delectable recipes and creative ideas. Whether you’re planning a picnic, a home-cooked meal, or coming out to Ruby Tuesday, we’ve got you covered with inspiration to make her day truly special.

Mother’s Day Gift Ideas

Find the perfect gift to show mom how much she means to you with our curated selection of Mother’s Day gift ideas. From heartfelt keepsakes to indulgent treats, discover thoughtful gifts that will make her feel cherished and appreciated on her special day.

Mother’s Day Menu and Specials

Celebrate Mother’s Day with a delicious meal at Ruby Tuesday! Explore our $6 drink specials and delicious menu, available both for dine-in and TueGo, designed to make Mother’s Day memorable with flavorful dishes and exceptional service.

Common Questions About Mother’s Day

How can children get involved in planning Mother’s Day activities?

Children can contribute by making handmade cards, decorating the home, or helping to prepare a special meal or treat. They can also be involved in planning a small family event, such as a game night or movie marathon, that celebrates mom in a fun, heartfelt way.

What are some tips for creating a DIY Mother’s Day gift at home?

A great DIY Mother’s Day gift can start with personalizing items such as photo frames, creating a custom piece of artwork, or assembling a scrapbook filled with memories. Utilize materials like fabric, paint, and recyclables to craft something unique that reflects her interests or captures special moments.

Are there alternative ways to celebrate Mother’s Day for those on a budget?

Celebrating Mother’s Day on a budget can be meaningful and special. Consider activities like a picnic in the park, a scenic hike, or a movie night at home. Homemade gifts, cooking a meal together, or simply spending quality time together can make the day memorable without significant expenses.