When is Mother's Day?

Whether you're celebrating Mother's Day with your mom or other special female figure in your life, there are a number of ways to celebrate the holiday. The festivities can include cooking, gifts, and quality time with family and friends. You can also spend the day in prayer, remembering your loved one, and expressing your appreciation for her.

The celebration of Mother's Day originated in the United States in the 19th century. Traditionally, the holiday was held on the second Sunday in May. It was an occasion to thank mothers for their contributions to society. During this time, women were raising voices for voting rights and working to ease social ills. In 1914, President Woodrow Wilson proclamated that Mother's Day would be a national holiday.

The earliest Mother's Day observances were held in ancient Greece, where mothers were honored with a spring festival. The celebrations were often tied to maternal symbols, such as fertility and creativity. Early Greeks offered flowers at sunrise, fine drinks, and honey-cakes.

The celebration was later expanded to other countries. By the end of the twentieth century, almost every state in the U.S. had adopted the celebration. In Japan, where women are not as focused on material gifts, they tend to give flowers.

In England, children traditionally bake cake and give their mom a long phone call. They can also watch a movie, sing a song, or play an instrument.

The first formal observance of Mother's Day in the United States occurred in 1908 at the Andrews Methodist Church in Grafton, West Virginia. The event was sponsored by department store owner John Wanamaker.