Mother’s Day is a cherished holiday celebrated annually to honour mothers and mother figures. It’s a day filled with heartfelt greetings, thoughtful gifts, and quality time spent with loved ones. But the date can be tricky to remember, leading many to ask, “Is today Mother’s Day 2024?”
This year, Mother’s Day falls on Sunday, May 12th. The holiday always lands on the second Sunday of May, meaning the date changes each year. So, if you’re wondering “is today Mother’s Day 2024?” on any other day besides May 12th, the answer is no.
While Mother’s Day is celebrated globally, the date isn’t universally consistent. Many countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and several European nations, observe Mother’s Day on the second Sunday in May. However, other countries have different traditions. For example, the United Kingdom celebrates Mother’s Day in March, while Mexico observes it on May 10th. Thailand celebrates Mother’s Day on August 12th, coinciding with the Queen’s birthday.
The origins of Mother’s Day can be traced back to the late 19th century, influenced by the efforts of several women, including Anna Jarvis. Jarvis tirelessly campaigned for a national day to honour mothers, driven by a desire to recognise their sacrifices and contributions.
A mother and child celebrating Mother's Day
Her persistence led to President Woodrow Wilson officially proclaiming the second Sunday in May as Mother’s Day in 1914. Ironically, Jarvis later became critical of the commercialisation of the holiday, advocating for a return to its more sentimental roots.
Regardless of the date or the degree of commercialisation, Mother’s Day remains a significant occasion for expressing gratitude and appreciation for the mothers and mother figures in our lives. While gifts and celebrations are common, the true essence of the day lies in acknowledging the invaluable role mothers play.