Mother's Day is just around the corner, and this year, it's set to be a memorable occasion for millions of families across the United States. On Sunday, May 11, 2025, more than eight in ten U.S. adults plan to celebrate the day dedicated to honoring mothers, with an average expected spending of $259.04 per person on gifts and activities. This figure reflects a slight increase of about $5 from last year, according to a survey conducted by the National Retail Federation (NRF) involving 7,948 consumers.
However, as families gear up for the celebrations, economic factors are prompting some to tighten their belts. A separate survey by LendingTree found that consumers anticipate spending an average of $148 this year, which is a significant drop of 14% from the $172 spent in 2023. A staggering 56% of respondents indicated that inflation and the current economic climate would influence their spending habits, with 38% attributing their reduced budgets to tariffs affecting prices.
Despite these financial concerns, many restaurants and retailers are stepping up with enticing deals and specials to help families celebrate. From free meals to special discounts, there’s something for everyone this Mother's Day.
For instance, Arby's is offering a buy one, get one (BOGO) sandwich deal on May 10, followed by $1.99 mozzarella sticks on Mother's Day itself. Auntie Anne's is also joining in on the fun, providing customers with $10 in rewards for every $30 spent on gift cards through May 11, 2025.
Ice cream lovers can delight in Baskin-Robbins, which has introduced two special cakes for Mother's Day. Members of the Baskin-Robbins Rewards program can enjoy a $5 discount on cakes priced at $35 or more throughout May. Meanwhile, Beef 'O' Brady's is giving moms a treat by offering a free meal up to $14.99 when they dine in at participating locations on May 11.
Buffalo Wild Wings is offering a 20% discount for moms who are nurses, teachers, or school staff, provided they present valid identification. Burger King rewards its Royal Perks members with a free Whopper upon purchasing a King Jr. Meal on the same day.
For those looking for a more upscale dining experience, The Capital Grille is hosting a Mother’s Day brunch priced at $55 for adults and $17 for children, featuring a two-course prix fixe menu along with brunch cocktails and champagne. Other notable mentions include Checkers & Rally’s, which has a $4 special on Mother's Day, and The Cheesecake Factory, offering a $10 bonus eCard with every $50 spent on gift cards through May 11.
Restaurants like Denny's and Dog Haus are also getting in on the action. Denny's is providing $10 off online orders of $30 or more, while Dog Haus customers can earn 4X loyalty points when ordering curbside pickup or delivery on Mother's Day.
For coffee aficionados, Dunkin' Donuts members can snag a 10-count order of Munchkins for just $2 through May 15, while also earning triple points on bulk donut and Munchkin purchases on May 10 and 11. Dutch Bros Coffee will give customers an exclusive Mother's Day sticker with any drink purchase on May 11, further adding to the celebratory spirit.
Families can also enjoy a unique brunch experience at Kona Grill, which offers a bottomless Mother's Day brunch for $49 per person. Those who purchase $200 in gift cards will receive a $60 bonus card, making it a great option for future dining.
For those who prefer a casual meal, McDonald's is offering a special deal where customers can add a second breakfast item for just $1 when they purchase something from the breakfast menu. Metro Diner is featuring a limited-time Banana Bread lineup, including pancakes and waffles, perfect for a sweet start to the day.
As the day approaches, many establishments are encouraging customers to check local favorites for unique Mother's Day specials. For example, Nothing Bundt Cakes is running a #NothingBundtMom giveaway, offering customers the chance to win a $3,000 Visa gift card, alongside special cakes available for order.
In addition to dining, several brands are offering gift card incentives. For instance, BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse is giving a $10 bonus card with the purchase of a $50 gift card, valid through June 15, 2025. Similarly, Red Robin is providing a $10 Bonus Buck Reward for gift card purchases, redeemable later in the summer.
As families prepare to celebrate, it’s clear that despite economic uncertainties, the spirit of Mother's Day remains strong. With a plethora of options available, from dining deals to sweet treats and thoughtful gifts, this Mother's Day promises to be filled with joy and appreciation for the incredible moms out there.
As we look forward to May 11, the excitement is palpable, and it’s a reminder to cherish the moments spent with loved ones. Whether through a special meal, a thoughtful gift, or simply quality time together, Mother’s Day is a chance to honor the women who do so much for their families every day.
