Mother’s Day March 11 2018

MOM’S THE WORD What date is Mother’s Day 2018, why does the date for Mothering Sunday change and why is the date different in other countries?

Some dates you do not want to forget!

Your wedding anniversary is one and Mother’s Day is most definitely another so, if you are in the UK, the US or much of Europe, take note of when it falls in 2018.

In the UK the wonderful event is celebrated on Sunday, March 11.
In the United States and many destinations around the globe, Mother’s Day 2018 is being celebrated on Sunday, May 13.

The special day is a chance for families to show their appreciation for their mothers.

What is Mothering Sunday?

Mothering Sunday is a celebration held to honour mums and maternal figures. The day has evolved into an occasion for kids to honour and give presents to their hardworking mums.

In the UK, it was originally linked to religion but has since lost a lot of its connections to the church and is mainly a family day.

Why does the UK have a different Mother’s Day to the US?

In the UK, the original event had nothing to do with mothers at all and it was a day for Christians to visit their “mother” church.

In the past, domestic servants were given the day off to return to their hometown and worship with their families. On their way home, these youths would pick wildflowers to place in the church – or give to their mums.

The US event was launched separately and was not linked to religion but was dedicated entirely to mothers.

Why is Mother’s Day celebrated on different dates around the world?

In America, Mother’s Day was established in 1914 – thanks to campaigns by the mums’ groups which were established during the Civil War.

Anna Jarvis, the leader of this movement, campaigned for a May date in memory of her own mum – who had died that month.

President Wilson formalized the date, but Anna later became dissatisfied with the commercialization around Mother’s Day.

She believed the original sentiment of love and family had been sacrificed for profit. She said: “A printed card means nothing except that you are too lazy to write to the woman who has done more for you than anyone in the world.” Many other countries have since adopted America’s date.

Why does the date of Mother’s Day change each year?

Mothering Sunday in the US is an annual holiday held on the second Sunday in May, so the date slightly varies each year.

In the UK, the date is linked to Easter, which is different each year as it is determined by the lunar calendar.

The UK’s Mother’s Day always falls on the fourth Sunday during the period of Lent, when people typically give up things like certain foods or bad habits for the days leading up to Easter.

What gifts should you give on Mother’s Day?

There are no hard and fast rules about what to offer your mother on this special day but plenty of people kick things off with a nice breakfast in bed.

For those with younger kids, this may just be jam on toast – or even just a mess on a tray – while the oldies may want to whip up some eggs and a freshly squeezed OJ.

Lots of people also opt for a bunch of flowers with tulips being a good value, seasonal choice.

Try not to turn up to your parents’ house empty handed – although that might be better than rocking up with one of the expensive gifts.