I don't know exactly how brunch became synonymous with celebrating Mother's Day, but I have a sneaking suspicion the origin story has something to do with giving mom a break in the kitchen and/or the idea that what mom ~really~ wants is to have pancakes, a dainty drink, and something sweet on the side (as opposed to, say, nachos and margaritas, which I think would be a slamming Mother's Day meal).
That kind of low-key sexism isn't unique to Mother's Day (how many ads do we see each year around Father's Day?), but it is something you can choose to opt out of if you want to without even making it a thing. Here are a few non-brunch ideas for Mother's Day to help you out!
An All-Day Movie Extravaganza
I know movie tickets are pricey, but if you can swing it, take mom to the movies for back-to-back cinematic thrills. Going to the movies on Mother's Day is one of my favorite ways to spend the day with my son, and we usually see at least two movies (and perhaps have been known to sneak into a third).
You can replicate this experience pretty easily at home, but with one rule: Mom gets to pick all the movies, and everyone has to watch them (unless she doesn't want you to).
Going on a Hike and Picnic
You know what is such an easy and delightful way to spend Mother's Day (especially if you like to be outside)? Going on a hike and following that hike with a picnic outdoors. Everyone will feel happy, alive, and refreshed, which are all good things to bask in on Mother's Day.
Learn to Make a Meal Together
If you definitely want to keep Mother's Day food-focused in some way, why not sign up the whole family for a cooking class you can do together? That's one way to show that you're really all a team when it comes to taking care of everyone.
Book Her a Hotel Room (Alone)
You know what mom might really like? A night all to herself. If you think the vibe is right, book your favorite mom a hotel room in town so that she can spend the night eating her favorite snacks, drinking her favorite drinks, and watching her favorite shows without having to stop for anyone else.
Book a Yoga Class at That Place She Wants to Try
If the mom in your life has been mentioning wanting to try a yoga class that's nearby, go ahead and book a session for her. If the class isn't happening on Mother's Day, get a gift certificate that she can use for a day that works for her.
Spend the Day at the Pool
If it's warm enough and there's a public pool or recreational center your family can visit for the day, take mom and the whole family out to the pool. Don't forget to take care of everything: snacks, towels, and sunscreen!
Volunteer for a Cause She Cares About
Mother's Day could be a great opportunity to work together as a family for a cause that the mom in your life really cares about. All kinds of organizations are often looking for people to come out and help, and with a little bit of planning you might be able to fit your family in.
Spend the Day at the Beach
If you're lucky enough to live near a beach, take Mother's Day as a reason to go out and have a great day together there. Grab some ice cream, run up and down the beach, and play in the ocean together.
Don't Plan at All: Be Spontaneous
Sometimes one of the best ways to celebrate a holiday like Mother's Day is to let the day lead you where it needs to go. When everyone wakes up, ask the mom in your life what she wants to do — and then go do it. Once you're finished, ask her what's next — and then do that. You can fill the whole day this way, and it could end up being a lot of fun.
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