Mother’s Day is Sunday, May 14, 2023.
What do moms really want? Some moms aren’t great at telling us. But in many cases, they don’t want a lot: Maybe a chance to sleep in, a heartfelt show of appreciation, or something handmade. (Lavender sachet, anyone? Here’s a how-to.)
A couple of general tips: If you’re going somewhere, plan ahead. If you’re cooking, read the recipe and know your chefs’ abilities. Whatever you do, put your heart into it!
[ Speaking of mothers, local author Angela Garbes, in her book, “Essential Labor: Mothering as Social Change,” argues that mothering is the most important job in the world. We agree! Read a review of the book. ]
Happy Mother’s Day!
Mother’s Day 2023: Events and activities
An outing is always fun. Go to the zoo or aquarium — or maybe a museum or some other attraction you haven’t enjoyed in a while.
If mom is into plants and gardening head on over to the annual Mother’s Day Plant Sale at the Kruckeberg Botanic Garden. It’s a fundraiser for the garden, but also a place where you will find some special plants. There are activities for the kids too! Have them play while you browse.
Sometimes a walk in the garden around town and enjoying a few moments among the spring blooms are the perfect ways to spend the day — with family or without. Check out our list of gardens and choose a few to explore.
Maybe this year the whole family would like to do a fun run. Join the Mother’s Day half-marathon in Kirkland. The run begins and ends at Juanita Beach Park. Run to the finish line and stay for a picnic at the park.
Skagit Valley still has plenty of flowers blooming this season. Head to Skagit Acres Garden and Nursery for Moms & Mimosas on Saturday, May 13 from 11 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Enjoy drinks, a raffle, photo booth and indulge in a few plant purchases for your own home. RSVP here.
There’s so much more to do! Check out the Seattle’s Child calendar for more Mother’s Day events and outings with the family.
Mother’s Day 2023: Hiking and animal visits
Go on a hike! Enjoy some time in nature — alone or with the family. Fresh air and a little exercise can put a lot into perspective and is a good ways to bond with one another. Try one of these easy spring hikes for all ages and abilities.
Try something new like feeding a kangaroo or a cute wallaby. The kangaroo ranch in Fall City will have you feeling lovey, dovey and cuddly.
How about treating Mom to a weekend away? Sometimes a little time to yourself is what’s needed or a weekend to celebrate motherhood with friends. Check out these local destinations that aren’t too far from Seattle. These are great family destinations too!
Take to the water! Seattle has so many options to set sail. Check out the ice cream cruise, or rent an hour on a peapod from the Center for Wooden Boats. Here’s a list of experiences to help you start planning.
Mother’s Day 2023: What to eat
One popular option is the Mother’s Day brunch. Let someone else do the cooking for you and dine inside or out around the Seattle area. If you’re going to take Mom out, call ahead. Like right now! Check out our list of brunch spots around the Seattle area.
Of course, it can be pretty adorable when the kids do the cooking. A few years ago, we talked to some kids with some ambitious plans for Mom. Not everyone is at their level. I’m not above dropping a blatant hint like: “Here’s how to operate the coffeemaker,” or “Here’s how I place my order at the coffee drive-thru.”
Or in honor of spring, why not a picnic? We just got some great new picnic ideas from a chef and cookbook author. And here are a handful of our favorite places to go.
This story was originally published on April 2022 and updated in April 2023.Â
