When is Mother’s Day and why is the date different in the UK and US?

Don’t forget mum on Mother’s Day (Picture: Getty Images)

For many, no matter how old you get, the first thing you think of in times of stress, worry, celebration, sadness, triumph is… ‘I need to tell Mum.’

Whether they’re a biological mother, an adoptive one, or a step-parent or other maternal figure, they are simultaneously your biggest supporter, safe space and, often, your emotional punching bag.

It’s fair to say mothers go through a lot – although it does come with some benefits too – which makes it only fair that they get an extra special day to celebrate.

So, when is Mother’s Day this year?

When is Mother’s Day this year?

In the UK, Mother’s Day will fall on Sunday, March 19, 2023.

The date of Mother’s Day changes each year in the UK because of the origins of the tradition.

The date of Mother’s Day changes in the UK because of its connection to Easter (Picture: Getty)

Why does Mother’s Day change every year in the UK and why is it different in the US?

Mothering Sunday first began as a church tradition, and it takes place three weeks before Easter on the fourth Sunday of Lent.

As Easter changes, so too does Mother’s Day.

The UK shares the date for Mother’s Day with a few other places, including the Bailiwick of Guernsey, Jersey, Isle of Man, Ireland and Nigeria.

However, if you happen to have a mother figure across the pond, Mother’s Day in the United States always falls on the second Sunday in May.

This year, that date is Sunday, May 14, 2023.

In the US, the day wasn’t based on religious tradition – hence the difference to the UK.

This is also the same for other places across the globe, including Australia, Germany, China and Greece.

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