When Is Mother's Day 2026

Mother's Day 2026 falls on different dates around the world. Below you will find the exact day for the US, the UK and other major countries, plus a quick history, local traditions and easy ideas to celebrate.

When is Mother's Day 2026?

In the United States, Canada, Australia and New Zealand, Mother's Day 2026 is on Sunday, May 10. In the United Kingdom and Ireland, Mothering Sunday is on Sunday, March 15. France and Sweden observe on Sunday, May 31. Mexico celebrates every year on May 10.

Mother's Day 2026 dates by country

Origins of Mother's Day

Modern Mother’s Day began in the United States in the early 1900s, led by Anna Jarvis, who organized the first formal church service in 1908. In 1914, the day became a national observance.

Jarvis later campaigned against the holiday’s growing commercialization, arguing it should be a personal expression of gratitude.

In the UK and Ireland, Mothering Sunday is older. It falls on the fourth Sunday in Lent and traces to visiting the “mother church” during the 16th century.

Other countries set their own patterns: Mexico fixed the date at May 10, while Norway chose the second Sunday in February. France celebrates on the last Sunday in May, shifting only if it conflicts with Pentecost.

How different countries celebrate

• United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand: cards, flowers and family meals are common; many communities host brunches and school-made crafts.
• United Kingdom & Ireland: church services for Mothering Sunday are typical, often followed by a family roast; the day is tied to the Lenten calendar.
• Mexico: families mark Día de las Madres on May 10 with music and flowers, sometimes serenading mothers with “Las Mañanitas.”
• France: Fête des mères is often celebrated with a home-cooked lunch and gifts; the date is set by national tradition to the last Sunday in May.

10 relaxing and exciting ways to celebrate Mother's Day in 2026

Relaxing ideas

1. Breakfast-in-bed kit: keep it simple with fruit, yogurt and coffee. Add a handwritten note.
2. At‑home spa hour: draw a bath, set calm music and light a candle.
3. Photo rewind: print 10 favorite photos and create a mini album together.
4. Slow picnic: pack easy finger foods and a cozy blanket at a nearby park.
5. Unplug window: give Mom two device‑free hours and run point on the household.

More upbeat ideas

6. Brunch trail: try a new cafe, then stroll a local garden or farmers market.
7. Memory walk: revisit a place that means something to your family and retake an old photo.
8. Mini class: book a pottery, baking or flower‑arranging workshop.
9. Backyard movie: string lights, queue a favorite film and make popcorn.
10. Give back together: assemble care kits for a local shelter or NICU families.

Product spotlight If you’ll be celebrating with a newborn at home, a clear view can bring peace of mind while Mom relaxes. The Babysense Prisma non‑Wi‑Fi video baby monitor offers split‑screen, night light and a built‑in sound machine. 

FAQ

Helpful Babysense reads

• Thoughtful Mother’s Day gift ideas. 
• Explore more tips on the Babysense blog.

Last updated: September 5, 2025