Keeping track of special occasions can be tricky, especially when the dates change every year. If you are trying to plan ahead for 2026, you might be wondering exactly when Mothering Sunday falls in the UK.
For 2026, Mothering Sunday will take place on Sunday, 15 March.
This day is a dedicated time to honour mothers, grandmothers, and other mother figures in our lives. Whether you are in the UK or sending love from abroad, knowing the date early helps you plan the perfect celebration. This guide explains why the date changes, how it differs from celebrations in other countries, and the traditions that make the day special.
Why the Date Changes Every Year
Unlike Christmas or Valentine’s Day, which fall on fixed dates, Mothering Sunday moves every year. This can cause confusion, but there is a simple reason for it.
Mothering Sunday is connected to the lunar calendar and the date of Easter. It always falls on the fourth Sunday of Lent, exactly three weeks before Easter Sunday. Because the date of Easter changes based on the first full moon after the spring equinox, the date of Mothering Sunday shifts along with it.
In 2026, Easter falls in early April, which places Mothering Sunday on 15 March. This is relatively early in the year compared to other years, so it is worth marking in your calendar now.
Mothering Sunday (UK) vs. Mother’s Day (US)
One of the most common sources of confusion is the difference between the UK’s Mothering Sunday and the US version of Mother’s Day. While they share a similar purpose—celebrating mums—they have very different origins and dates.
The UK Origins
The British tradition dates back to the 16th century. Originally, it was not about mothers in the biological sense. It was a religious occasion where people would return to their “mother church”—the main church or cathedral in their area—for a special service. This was known as “going a-mothering.”
Over time, domestic servants were given this specific Sunday off to visit their mother church and their families. They would often pick wild flowers along the way to give to their mothers, which eventually blended the religious tradition with the family celebration we know today.
The US Origins
The American Mother’s Day is a more modern, secular holiday created by Anna Jarvis in 1908. President Woodrow Wilson signed it into law in 1914. In the US (and many countries that follow this tradition, such as Australia and Canada), Mother’s Day is celebrated on the second Sunday in May.
If you have family in both the UK and the US, or if you are an expat living abroad, you might find yourself celebrating twice a year. In 2026, the UK celebrates on 15 March, while the US celebrates on 10 May.
Celebrations: Traditional and Modern
Ways of celebrating Mothering Sunday have evolved over the centuries, but the core sentiment remains the same. It is a day to show appreciation and care.
Traditional Customs
Historically, food played a big role in the celebration. The most famous traditional food is the Simnel cake. This is a light fruit cake topped with a layer of marzipan and 11 marzipan balls, representing the 12 apostles (minus Judas).
Another tradition involved “Mothering Buns,” which are sweet buns topped with icing. Families would gather for a special meal, enjoying the rare time off work to be together.
Modern Celebrations
Today, the focus is less on the “mother church” and more on treating mum. Common ways to celebrate include:
- Sunday Roast: Many families head to a pub or restaurant for a traditional roast dinner, or cook a special meal at home so mum doesn’t have to cook.
- Flowers and Cards: Spring flowers like daffodils, tulips, and carnations are popular gifts.
- Quality Time: For many, simply spending the day together is the most valuable gift.
For those living far away, modern technology makes it easier to stay connected. Video calls, instant messages, and sending remittances or digital gift cards allow people to participate in the day even from thousands of miles away.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mothering Sunday a Bank Holiday?
No, Mothering Sunday is not a bank holiday in the UK. Since it always falls on a Sunday, businesses operate on their usual Sunday trading hours. However, restaurants and flower shops are often much busier than usual.
Do other countries celebrate on the UK date?
Yes, a few other countries celebrate on the fourth Sunday in Lent, similar to the UK. These include Ireland, Nigeria, and Guernsey. It is always best to check the specific calendar for the country where your loved ones live.
Why is it called “Mothering Sunday” and not “Mother’s Day”?
“Mothering Sunday” is the correct historical and religious term in the UK and Ireland, referring to the “mother church.” “Mother’s Day” is the American term. However, in modern usage in the UK, the two names are often used interchangeably.
Making the Day Special
Regardless of the history or the specific date, 15 March 2026 is an opportunity to pause and say thank you. Whether you bake a traditional Simnel cake, send a bouquet of spring flowers, or simply make a phone call across the ocean, the gesture is what counts.
Planning ahead ensures that you don’t get caught out by the changing dates. By marking 15 March in your calendar, you can relax knowing you are ready to make the day special for the mother figures in your life.