Holiday guide

Mother’s Day Guide

Mother’s Day is a day to recognize mothers, grandmothers, caregivers and other people who provide care. In the United States, it falls on the second Sunday in May; in 2026 that is May 10. Other countries use different dates and traditions.

May 10, 2026Many countries, with different datesFamily and cultural observanceReading time: 6 min

What is Mother’s Day?

Mother’s Day is a family observance honoring mothers and mother figures. Its date and customs differ by country, so a single global date should not be assumed.

Why it matters

Why Mother’s Day matters

The day matters because it makes care work and family relationships visible. It can be joyful, complicated or inclusive of chosen family, and respectful observance leaves room for different family circumstances.

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Today

How Mother’s Day is celebrated today

Common activities include calls, cards, flowers, shared meals, school crafts, gifts and time together. Many people also honor caregivers, remember loved ones or support mothers through practical help.

GatheringCommon activities include calls, cards, flowers, shared meals, school crafts, gifts and time together. Many people also honor caregivers, remember loved ones or support mothers through practical help.

Family customsHouseholds adapt the celebration to local and personal traditions.

Community lifePublic events and shared participation vary by region.

Food and symbolsMeals, colors and objects reflect local customs and family meaning.

Public eventsParades, worship, performances or markets may shape public observance.

Personal meaningPeople choose religious, cultural, family or quieter ways to take part.

Key facts

Mother’s Day facts

U.S. Mother’s Day is the second Sunday in May.
Other countries observe Mother’s Day on different dates.
Cards, flowers and meals are common customs.
The day can include mothers, grandmothers and mother figures.
Practical help can be as meaningful as a gift.

Questions

Mother’s Day FAQ

When is Mother’s Day?

In the United States, Mother’s Day is the second Sunday in May, which is May 10 in 2026.

Is Mother’s Day celebrated on the same date everywhere?

No. Dates and customs vary by country.

Who can Mother’s Day honor?

It may honor mothers, grandmothers, caregivers, mentors and other mother figures.

Who was Anna Jarvis?

Anna Jarvis led the campaign that made Mother’s Day a U.S. national observance, beginning with a 1908 service in Grafton, West Virginia.

Why are carnations associated with Mother’s Day?

Anna Jarvis wore a white carnation in memory of her mother and supplied carnations for an early Grafton observance.

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