Mother’s Day in the United States is a cherished annual tradition celebrating mothers, motherhood, and the influence of maternal figures in society. From heartfelt cards and flowers to special meals and family gatherings, the day is a widely observed opportunity to honour the love, dedication, and sacrifices made by mothers across the nation. Though it shares similarities with Mothering Sunday in the UK, the American version has a distinct origin and cultural significance.

What is Mother’s Day?
Mother’s Day in the United States is a national observance established to express love, gratitude, and appreciation for mothers and mother figures. It originated in the early 20th century, thanks to the efforts of Anna Jarvis, who campaigned for a formal holiday following the death of her own mother in 1905. She envisioned a day of personal reflection and gratitude, rooted in private family appreciation rather than commercialized celebration.

In 1914, President Woodrow Wilson signed a proclamation officially establishing the second Sunday of May as Mother’s Day. Since then, it has become one of the most popular holidays in the U.S., celebrated by families of all backgrounds and traditions.

While the day is primarily associated with biological mothers, it also recognizes grandmothers, stepmothers, adoptive mothers, guardians, and all women who play nurturing roles in the lives of others.

When is Mother’s Day?
Mother’s Day is celebrated annually on the second Sunday of May. In 2025, Mother’s Day will fall on Sunday, May 11th.

As a fixed position in the calendar, it provides families ample time to prepare for personal tributes, gatherings, and community events that honour maternal contributions.

How to Celebrate Mother’s Day
Americans celebrate Mother’s Day in a wide variety of ways—often tailored to individual family traditions and cultural backgrounds. Common ways to mark the occasion include:

Sending cards and flowers: Greeting cards and floral arrangements—especially roses and lilies—are traditional tokens of appreciation.
Hosting a meal: Brunch or dinner with family is a popular way to spend quality time and show love through shared experiences.
Gift giving: Personalized gifts, books, spa vouchers, or handmade crafts from children are often treasured by mothers.
Acts of service: Helping with chores, cooking meals, or offering a day of rest can be meaningful gestures.
Digital tributes: Sharing messages, photos, or videos on social media allows families to publicly honour mothers across distances.
Religious services, school activities, and community tributes are also common during the lead-up to Mother’s Day.

Why Mother’s Day Matters
Mother’s Day is more than a holiday—it’s a reflection of the profound influence mothers have on our lives, our values, and our society. It offers a dedicated time to recognize the emotional labour, resilience, and unconditional love that motherhood often requires.

At a broader level, the day serves to spotlight issues facing mothers today—from maternal health and parental leave to mental wellness and work-life balance. It’s also an opportunity to support mother-led businesses, charities, and community groups.

Even amid evolving family structures, Mother’s Day endures as a deeply personal and universally meaningful occasion.