If you didn’t manage to snag a reservation at one of those popular Mother’s Day brunches or teas or create up a great handmade gift for Mom, don’t sweat it. We’ve rounded up some fun things to do on Mother’s Day and gift ideas that don’t require much—or any—advance planning.
Check out our things Mom really wants for Mother’s Day, too—these don’t cost a dime and can be done at a moment’s notice!
1. Make it Mom’s choice!
It’s simple: ask Mom what she wants to do, then do it! This is Mom’s turn to choose the activity, whether it’s a picnic in the park or an afternoon movie or antiquing. Only requirement from the kids (and Dad): no whining!
2. Go on a family bike ride.
Get out and enjoy the spring weather as a family. Strap on your helmets and pack a picnic or plan a stop for ice-cream or at Mom’s favourite bakery. In Toronto? Try one of these family-friendly biking trails.
3. Plan a home spa day.
Spas are likely booked solid by now. Instead, stock up on spa products for Mom from a local beauty-supply store, health-food store (if she’s eco-minded), or even the drugstore. Pack them up in a basket, make a Zen playlist for her, then give her some space to chill and enjoy them on her special day.
Bonus: back massage or foot rub from Dad!
4. Prepare Mom’s favourite meal.
You know what she likes, and this gift and activity combo takes little more than a trip to the grocery store and some time in the kitchen. The icing on the cake is that everyone digs in without complaint!
5. Do Mom’s chores
If there are things Mom usually takes care of on the weekend, like packing kids’ lunches ahead, walking the dog, doing the laundry… Or if there are things you know she’s been meaning to get to for ages, like organize that hall closet or clean the windows—now is the time!
Surprise her by taking some things off her plate, and by giving her some time to do her own thing for a few hours.
6. Head to an art gallery or museum.
Toronto’s museums are all open on Sundays and aren’t typical Mother’s Day destinations. You’ll still need to arrive early to beat the crowds. With a tiny bit of advance planning you may be able to pick up free museum passes at Toronto Public Library locations.
7. Be a tourist where you live.
Explore a neighbourhood across the city or go to a nearby town. Wander, pop into shops, check out parks (pack a picnic) and stop at a chocolate shop or fancy cafe.
8. Go to a festival or street fair.
Festivals and other public events bloom in May. You’re sure to find something going on nearby. Check out some events in Toronto this weekend.
9. Deliver the goods.
Delivery services like a wine-of-the-month club or an organic grocery delivery service are gifts that keep on giving!
Or you could get Mom a subscription to favourite guilty-pleasure magazine. To make it an activity: buy the first issue and some chocolates, then draw her a nice bath with some candles for a relaxing end to Mother’s Day.
Read more like this:
You don’t have to spend money to give Mom a special day with these 5 things Mom really wishes for on Mother’s Day.
Here are 8 homemade Mother’s Day gifts kids can make, that aren’t your typical macaronia necklace!
Plan ahead for Father’s Day with these fun and free ideas for Dad.
