Mother's Day 2023: Date, history, and how to celebrate without a mother

Anna Reeves Jarvis/Getty Images Pulse

Mother's Day 2023 will be celebrated on Sunday, May 14. Mother's Day was officiated in 1914 after the efforts of Anna Jarvis to pay tribute to her mother were recognised. This came six years after Jarvis organised the first remembrance event for her mother Anna Reeves Jarvis.

The event was a tribute to her mother who displayed dedication and sacrifice as a peace activist and founder of Mother's Day Work Clubs to provide care for wounded soldiers during the Civil War.

Anna Jarvis/Getty Images Pulse

Significance of Mother's Day

Mother's Day shines a light on the hard work, dedication, and sacrifices of mothers in raising children and contributing to their communities. It also serves as a reminder to honour those mothers who have passed on.

Mother's Day celebrations

Mother's Day is celebrated in different ways around the world and individually. Check out our gift ideas for Mother's Day gifts that she will smile about all year. Celebrations include cards, gifts, treats, time with family and friends, and volunteering time to help mothers in need, among other celebratory activities.

Frequently Asked Questions about Mother's Day:

When is Mother's Day 2023?

Mother's Day will be celebrated on May 14.

Why was Mother's Day created?

Mother's Day was created by Anna Jarvis in 1908 to honour her mother's memory. It was officially recognized in 1914.

How to celebrate Mother's Day without a mom

Mother's Day encompasses all mothers even those who have passed on. It can, however, be tricky for those who have lost their mothers to engage in the day's activities. We have come up with some ideas on how to celebrate the memories of those mothers.

Don't engage in Mother's Day activities

If you don't want to partake in the activities, do just that. Some people don't celebrate Mother's Day for religious reasons, so you can stay away for your peace of mind and calm. If the day is triggering for you, don't acknowledge it and if possible, talk to someone about your experience.

Trigger memories

Write a letter to your mother. This exercise can be cathartic where you express your feelings. It can also trigger memories as they tend to fade the less real-life experience we have. It can be a way to refresh your memory and keep the memories of her alive.

Honour her interests or routine

Spend the day doing something that makes you feel connected to her. It can be cooking, reading a book or being up and about, whatever you remember about her interests can offer a meaningful connection.

Recognise mother figures in your life

Celebrate mother figures in your life who have shaped you into the person you are today. You can also support other mothers with donations or volunteering.

Final thoughts about Mother's Day 2023

Mother's Day is a celebration of all mothers and their efforts to take care of their young ones and contribute to society. The tradition started with Anna Jarvis during the First World War to honour her mother. Every second Sunday in May the world honours and celebrates mothers. The day can be trying for those without mothers, but hopefully, the ideas above can offer some support.

Mother's Day 2023: Date, history, and how to celebrate without a mother