Mother’s Day is a special occasion celebrated in various ways around the world, but few people realize that the dates for this heartfelt holiday differ significantly between the UK and the US. This year, Mother’s Day in the UK falls on March 30, 2025, while the US celebrates it on the second Sunday of May. The history behind these dates is rich and varied, reflecting cultural differences and unique traditions.
In the UK, Mothering Sunday, as it is traditionally known, has roots that date back to the Middle Ages. During this time, people would return to their home church, often referred to as their 'mother church,' on the fourth Sunday of Lent. This practice evolved into a day for families to reunite and honor their mothers. The date varies each year since it is linked to the Christian festival of Lent, which also changes annually. In contrast, the American version of Mother’s Day was initiated much later. According to the BBC, the idea began when Anna Jarvis held a memorial service for her mother on May 12, 1907. Soon after, the day gained popularity across the United States, and in 1914, it was officially designated a national holiday by the president, celebrated on the second Sunday of May.
However, Jarvis later became disillusioned with the commercialization of the holiday, as companies began to exploit it for profit, prompting her to campaign against its celebration altogether by the 1920s. Despite her efforts, Mother’s Day remains a significant occasion, with people across America expressing their love and appreciation for their mothers.
While Mother’s Day is celebrated on different dates in the UK and the US, Father’s Day is a different story. Both countries celebrate this day on the same date, which is the third Sunday in June. The origins of Father’s Day can be traced back to Sonora Louise Smart Dodd, who was raised by her father after her mother passed away during childbirth. Inspired by the celebration of Mother’s Day, Dodd sought to establish a day to honor fathers, leading to the first official Father’s Day celebration on June 19, 1910.
This year, Peloton is embracing the spirit of UK Mother’s Day with special themed classes designed to celebrate mothers. On March 30, 2025, Peloton will host two unique classes: a 20-minute UK Mother’s Day Run led by Becs Gentry, available on-demand starting at midnight ET, and a 30-minute UK Mother’s Day Ride with Leanne Hainsby at 7:00 AM ET. Peloton has offered these themed classes annually since at least 2021, and members can also look forward to US Mother’s Day classes in May and Father’s Day classes in June, continuing the tradition of honoring parents through fitness.
As families prepare to celebrate Mother’s Day, many are also searching for the perfect gift to show their appreciation. A thoughtful gift can make a lasting impression, and there are plenty of options available for every type of mother. From elegant jewelry to practical home items, the choices are abundant. For instance, a hand-marbled leather notebook priced at £66 from Giannini Firenze is perfect for mothers who love to jot down their thoughts or memories. Alternatively, a photo frame from Mulberry, costing £295, can beautifully showcase cherished family moments.
For mothers who enjoy pampering, beauty products like Jo Malone’s Enrich Shower Cream at £25 or Chanel’s Coco Mademoiselle refillable purse spray for £165 are excellent choices. Fashion-conscious mothers might appreciate a stylish jumper from Cos for £115 or a chic pair of sunglasses from Tom Ford priced at £305. The gift options are endless, including a Goldie necklace for £130 from anni-lu.com, or a pair of LD-1000 trainers for £90 from Nike.
Flowers are a timeless gift for Mother’s Day, and a pastel tulips bouquet from Marks & Spencer for £35 is sure to brighten any mother’s day. For those who prefer a more personal touch, an engravable bracelet from Pandora costing £150 can serve as a daily reminder of love and appreciation.
Gift ideas also range from practical to luxurious, including a large trug for £170 from Daylesford for the gardening enthusiast or a set of flower scissors from Niwaki for £42. The key is to choose something that reflects the mother’s personality and interests, making her feel special on her day.
Ultimately, Mother’s Day is about expressing gratitude and love. It’s a time to reflect on the countless ways mothers have influenced our lives, teaching us valuable lessons and providing unwavering support. Whether through a heartfelt card, a thoughtful gift, or simply spending quality time together, it’s essential to make the day memorable.
As March 30 approaches, families across the UK will prepare to celebrate their mothers, while those in the US will look forward to their day in May. Each celebration carries its own significance and traditions, but the underlying sentiment remains the same: a deep appreciation for the love and sacrifices made by mothers everywhere.
So, this Mother’s Day, remember to take a moment to say thank you, whether it’s with a gift, a kind word, or simply your presence. After all, it’s the thought that counts, and making mothers feel cherished is what truly makes this day special.
