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When is Mother’s Day 2026 in Victoria? And why do we celebrate?

Your cheat sheet to Mother's Day in Melbourne – where to eat, what to do and which Sunday to block out in your diary

Melissa Woodley
Winnie Stubbs
Written by
Melissa Woodley
&
Winnie Stubbs
Interior dining room of Stokehouse with chandeliers and ocean views.
Photograph: Supplied | Stokehouse
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We all know that we shouldn’t need to wait for a specific day to show our mum (or any motherly figure in our life) just how much we love her. But stepping up your game on Mother’s Day (this coming Sunday, May 10) is likely to score you some extra brownie points. Want to make this important day an extra special one? Here’s everything you need to know about the big day in Melbourne in 2026.

When is Mother’s Day 2026 in Victoria?

Across Australia, Mother’s Day is celebrated on the second Sunday of May. In 2026, it lands on Sunday, May 10. Time to get planning!

Is Mother’s Day a public holiday in Victoria?

Mother’s Day isn’t a public holiday in Victoria or anywhere across Australia, so most shops, cafés and businesses will be open as usual.

What is the history of Mother’s Day in Australia?

Mother’s Day has its roots in the United States, thanks to social activist Anna Jarvis. After her mum passed away in the early 1900s, she created a special day to honour the sacrifices mothers make around the world. The day was first recognised with a memorial in 1908, made an official national holiday in 1914 and adopted by Australians in the mid-1920s. 

Best Mother’s Day gift ideas in Melbourne?

Whether it’s a handmade card, breakfast in bed or just a heartfelt phone call, there are plenty of easy ways to express gratitude for the most important woman in your life. If you want to make her feel extra special this year, take her for dinner at one of Melbourne’s best restaurants, book her a spa day at one of the city’s most exquisite wellness spots, get glam together at one of the chicest salons in the city or surprise her with a gorgeous bouquet delivered straight to her door.

Multiple people sit at Sense of Self relaxing
Photograph: Brown Paper Parcel/ Jessica Tremp

What to do on Mother’s Day?

Nothing beats spending quality time with the legend who raised you. Personally, we love taking our mums for a lovely brunch at one of Melbourne’s favourite cafés or a peaceful picnic in one of the city’s magical gardens. You could also spend some special time together on a walk in one of the many stunning national parks in Victoria, take a day trip to a cute seaside town or soak up some culture at a play or exhibition.

When is Mother’s Day in Australia 2027?

Planning ahead? In 2027, Mother’s Day falls on Sunday, May 9. You can start planning early and spoil your mum with a mini getaway at one of the city's best hotels.

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