About Mother's Day
Mother's Day, observed on the second Sunday of May in the United States and many other countries, is a dedicated day to honor mothers, grandmothers, stepmothers, and all maternal figures who play a nurturing role in people's lives. It is one of the most widely observed unofficial holidays in the world, celebrated with flowers, cards, special meals, and personal expressions of gratitude. The day serves as a reminder to pause and appreciate the often-invisible labor, emotional support, and unconditional care that mothers provide every single day of the year. It is consistently one of the busiest days for restaurants, florists, and greeting card sales.
History & Origins
The modern Mother's Day was founded by Anna Jarvis of West Virginia, USA, who campaigned for an official day to honor mothers after the death of her own mother in 1905. In 1908 she held the first official Mother's Day service in Grafton, WV, and by 1914, President Woodrow Wilson signed a proclamation recognizing the second Sunday of May as a national holiday. Ironically, Jarvis later opposed the commercialization of the holiday she created, an opposition she maintained until her death in 1948.
Common Traditions
- ▸Presenting flowers, especially carnations — Anna Jarvis's favorite
- ▸Preparing or arranging a special breakfast, brunch, or dinner for mom
- ▸Writing heartfelt cards, letters, or making handmade gifts
- ▸Spending quality time doing activities she enjoys
- ▸Calling or video chatting with mothers and grandmothers who live far away
- ▸Sharing social media tributes and family photos