Mother’s Day 2025 will be celebrated in the United States on Sunday, May 11. This cherished holiday, dedicated to honoring mothers and maternal figures, is expected to bring families together through gifts, outings, and heartfelt expressions of gratitude.
The origins of Mother’s Day date back to the early 20th century when Anna Jarvis established the holiday in 1908 to recognize the sacrifices of mothers. It officially became a national holiday in 1914 when President Woodrow Wilson declared the second Sunday of May as Mother’s Day.
How Americans Are Celebrating in 2025
As the holiday approaches, families are preparing various ways to show appreciation:
- Dining Out: Restaurants anticipate a surge in reservations, with brunch and dinner outings being among the most popular ways to celebrate. In 2024, OpenTable reported a 39% increase in Mother’s Day reservations compared to a regular Sunday.
- Gift Giving: Common gifts include flowers, jewelry, chocolates, and personalized items. The National Retail Federation (NRF) estimates that Americans will spend over $35 billion on Mother’s Day gifts in 2025.
- Experience-Based Gifts: Many people are opting for spa treatments, weekend getaways, or concert tickets as gifts instead of traditional presents.
- Homemade Gestures: For those on a budget, handwritten letters, homemade meals, and family gatherings remain timeless ways to express love.
Economic Impact of Mother’s Day
Mother’s Day is one of the most significant retail holidays of the year, with spending expected to reach record levels in 2025. According to the NRF, the average American will spend approximately $275 on Mother’s Day gifts, up from $274 in 2024.
- Florists & Jewelry Stores: Sales of flowers and jewelry see the biggest boost. Over 80% of consumers purchase flowers, making it a $2.9 billion industry for Mother’s Day.
- Restaurants & Hospitality: The restaurant industry benefits significantly, with Mother’s Day being the busiest day of the year for brunch services.
- Greeting Cards & Personalization: More than 120 million greeting cards are expected to be exchanged, and personalized gifts continue to grow in popularity.
Mother’s Day Trends in 2025
- Eco-Friendly Gifts: Many consumers are opting for sustainable and ethically sourced gifts, such as organic skincare products and reusable home items.
- Subscription Services: Subscription boxes for flowers, gourmet foods, or wellness products are gaining traction as long-lasting gifts.
- Social Media Tributes: Millions will take to social media to share heartfelt messages, photos, and videos in honor of their mothers.
