Mother’s Day, celebrated in various forms around the world, is a special day dedicated to honoring and appreciating mothers and mother figures. The origins and customs associated with Mother’s Day vary globally, reflecting cultural values and historical periods.

Mother’s Day origins

In the United States, the modern version of Mother’s Day has its roots in the efforts of Anna Jarvis, who is credited with making it a national holiday. After her mother’s death in 1905, Jarvis sought to set aside a day to honor all mothers because she believed a mother is “the person who has done more for you than anyone in the world.” In 1914, President Woodrow Wilson officially designated the second Sunday in May as Mother’s Day.

Jarvis’s version of Mother’s Day was born out of her mother’s work. Ann Reeves Jarvis, Anna’s mother, had organized “Mother’s Day Work Clubs” in the 1850s to teach local women how to properly care for their children. These clubs later became a unifying force in a region of the country still divided over the Civil War. Following the war, Ann Reeves Jarvis organized “Mother’s Friendship Day,” at which mothers gathered with former Union and Confederate soldiers to promote reconciliation.

The idea of a day dedicated to mothers gained popularity and was celebrated increasingly throughout the United States and the world. However, as the holiday grew, so did the commercialization of Mother’s Day. Anna Jarvis herself became one of its most outspoken critics, spending much of her personal wealth in lawsuits against profiteers and even attempting to rescind Mother’s Day altogether.

Global celebrations and traditions

Mother’s Day is celebrated in various ways and on different days throughout. For example, the United Kingdom celebrates “Mothering Sunday” on the fourth Sunday of Lent. Originally a day when people would return to their mother church, the religious connotation has largely faded, and it has become more akin to the American Mother’s Day, focusing on showing appreciation to mothers.

In many Arab countries, Mother’s Day is celebrated on March 21st, coinciding with the vernal equinox, and is seen as a time to celebrate all women. Similarly, in Thailand, Mother’s Day is marked on the birthday of Queen Sirikit, August 12, reflecting the country’s reverence for their queen mother.

In Mexico, Mother’s Day, or “Día de la Madre,” is celebrated with great enthusiasm. Families typically gather to cook a meal for the mother figures in the family and children often perform songs and dances.

Thus, while Mother’s Day has taken on commercial tones in many places, its historical and emotional roots continue to make it a significant day across the world, celebrating one of the most universal bonds – that between a mother and her children. 

Mother’s Day Brunch

Brunch is a common and popular way to celebrate Mother’s Day, particularly in the United States. It has become a favorite tradition for many families as a way to honor and appreciate mothers and mother figures.

Restaurants typically offer special menus and sometimes even thematic decorations to create a festive atmosphere. Families enjoy the opportunity to gather without the pressures of cooking and cleaning, making it a relaxed day for moms who usually handle these tasks. This tradition also aligns well with the leisurely pace of a Sunday, providing a pleasant outing that allows family members to spend quality time together.

Local Brunch Options

Black Rock Bar & Grill 

~ $29.99/adults, $13.99/kids 5-12, children 4 and under are free

Celebrate Mom with an all-you-can-eat buffet including breakfast, entrées, side options, soups, salads, and desserts! You can even add-on a 6 oz. Sirloin for $6.

3776 S. State St, Ann Arbor

Blue Llama Jazz Club

~ $65/person for bunch + show

Treat mom to a mouth-watering brunch while listening to some smooth tunes featuring the Sean Dobbins Quartet with Athena Johnson. 

314 S Main St, Ann Arbor

Gandy Dancer

~ $50/person

This historic landmark offers a three-course meal complete with starter and dessert. Options include such delicacies as chilled gazpacho, filet mignon and media luna.

401 Depot St, Ann Arbor

The Newton

~ $100/person

A special collaborative event will be held in the elegant garden courtyard and includes a full brunch, flower bouquet and a photo shoot.

220 South Huron St, Ypsilanti

Weber’s

~ $60/4 people

This brunch carryout package allows you to celebrate mom in the comfort of your own home while indulging in a sumptuous spread.

3050 Jackson Rd, Ann Arbor

It’s a good idea to make reservations well in advance for Mother’s Day, as these places can get quite busy.