Mother’s Day is just around the corner, falling on Sunday, May 11, 2025. This holiday, celebrated across the U.S. on the second Sunday of May, is a time to honor mothers with thoughtful gifts and gestures. Its origins date back to ancient festivals held by Greeks and Romans to worship mother goddesses like Rhea and Cybele. Today, the celebration has evolved into a day of appreciation and recognition for mothers everywhere.
The History of Mother’s Day
Mother’s Day has a long and rich history, with its roots tracing back to ancient civilizations. The Greeks and Romans held festivals dedicated to the goddesses Rhea and Cybele. However, the modern version of Mother’s Day as we know it today began in the 19th century. The holiday was initially promoted by activist Ann Reeves Jarvis during the post-Civil War era. She organized “Mother’s Work Days” in the 1860s to encourage unity between Union and Confederate families.
By 1909, 45 U.S. states recognized Mother’s Day, and in 1914, President Woodrow Wilson officially declared the second Sunday in May a national holiday to honor mothers. Since then, Mother’s Day has grown into one of the most celebrated holidays in the U.S. and worldwide.
Gift Ideas for Mother’s Day 2025
Choosing the perfect gift for Mother’s Day can be challenging, but the effort is always appreciated. Here are some thoughtful gift ideas to show your mom how much she means to you:
Food and Chocolates
Food and chocolates remain timeless gifts for Mother’s Day. According to the Red Bank Chocolate Shoppe, chocolate symbolizes love, passion, care, and happiness. A delicious box of chocolates or a home-cooked meal can express your love in a simple yet meaningful way.
Jewelry
Jewelry is a classic and personal gift. Consider adding an engraving to a bracelet or necklace to make the gift extra special. Whether it’s a piece of fine jewelry or something handmade, it’s a thoughtful way to show your appreciation.
Beauty and Self-Care
Self-care is something every mom deserves. A relaxing massage, a spa day, or a high-quality skincare set can give your mom the chance to unwind and feel pampered. Experts agree that self-care gifts are a wonderful way to help moms de-stress and rejuvenate.
Fashion and Accessories
For moms looking to refresh their wardrobes, fashion items like dresses, sandals, or stylish accessories can make for perfect gifts. From chic handbags to elegant scarves, the right fashion piece can make your mom feel stylish and confident.
Mother’s Day Cards: A Tradition of Giving
According to Hallmark, Mother’s Day is the third-largest card-sending holiday in the U.S., with approximately 113 million cards exchanged every year. Around 85% of adults in the U.S. celebrate Mother’s Day in some form, making it a widespread tradition. The Hispanic community, in particular, embraces this holiday, celebrating it in various ways depending on the country.
When is Mother’s Day 2025?
Mother’s Day in 2025 will take place on Sunday, May 11. As always, the date falls on the second Sunday of May, but it changes each year because it’s based on the Sunday of that week.
Why Do the Dates Change for Mother’s Day and Father’s Day?
Mother’s Day and Father’s Day are always celebrated on specific Sundays—Mother’s Day on the second Sunday in May and Father’s Day on the third Sunday in June. Because these holidays are based on the week of the month, their exact dates vary each year. In 2024, Mother’s Day fell on May 12, but in 2025 it will be on May 11.
Celebrating Mother’s Day with Phone Calls
Mother’s Day also sees a significant spike in communication, with millions of people calling their moms. Verizon reported that in 2024, there were 394.2 million calls made across its network on Mother’s Day, a 3.1% increase from the previous year. This year-over-year increase shows just how important the holiday is for families, with many taking the time to connect with their mothers on this special day.
What to Expect for Mother’s Day 2025
Mother’s Day 2025 is expected to follow the trend of previous years, with millions of families celebrating their mothers. Whether through thoughtful gifts, heartfelt cards, or long-distance calls, the essence of the day remains the same: to honor and appreciate mothers for all they do.
