Mother's Day

Mother's Day History

Mother's Day is dedicated to expressing love, gratitude, and appreciation for the enduring efforts and sacrifices made by mothers towards their families, children, and society as a whole. In South Africa, this special day is observed similarly to many other countries, as it offers an opportunity for people to shower their mothers with affection, gifts, and heartfelt words of admiration. The essence of the observance lies not only in the celebration of motherhood but also in reinforcing the symbolic bond between a mother and her child.

The origin of Mother's Day can be traced back to ancient Greek and Roman civilizations when festivals were held in honour of goddesses representing motherhood. However, the modern-day version of this celebration is often attributed to Anna Jarvis, an American woman who campaigned for an official Mother's Day in the early 20th century. Jarvis's efforts led to President Woodrow Wilson proclaiming the second Sunday in May as Mother's Day in 1914. Over the decades, this observance has been embraced worldwide, with numerous cultures adapting the festivities to suit their local traditions and customs.

Mother’s Day in South Africa is marked with various activities and events, such as family gatherings, brunches, and sending flowers or gifts to express gratitude towards one's mother. Though rooted in Western custom, South Africans have adopted Mother's Day as an integral part of their yearly celebrations, shaping it into a special and unifying event that honours the strength and resilience of mothers across the nation. Mother's Day is celebrated annually on the second Sunday in May each year.

Top 2 Facts for 2026 Mother's Day in South Africa

• Postpartum depression is common in South African mothers, affecting an estimated 30-40% of women. However, awareness and treatment for postpartum depression remain limited.
• South Africa has a high rate of single mothers, with about 40-50% of children growing up without their biological fathers. This can place additional financial and emotional burdens on these women.

In the News and Trending in South Africa for Mother's Day

Top things to do in South Africa for Mother's Day

• Send mom and grandma flowers. You can either pick them up and deliver them yourself if you are nearby or use one of many online services that ship directly to her door.
• Give mom a gift she will really appreciate - a day at the spa or a weekend off.
• Visit the Oyster Box Hotel in Umhlanga. Known for its beautiful ocean views , the hotel offers a special Mother's Day brunch event that includes a selection of hot and cold dishes, as well as a glass of sparkling wine.
• Check out the Table Bay Hotel, located on the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront in Cape Town. The hotel offers a special Mother's Day brunch event, which includes a selection of dishes from around the world, as well as live music and entertainment.