Sure, Mother’s Day gifts are always a pleasant surprise, but this holiday isn’t about spending a ton of cash — it’s about spending quality time with one of the most important people in our lives: Mom. Instead of a flower display or a sweet card, treat Mom (or yourself!) to a day that’s extra special.
Whether it’s getting out and exploring or relaxing and unwinding, our list of fun activities to do together will make this Mother’s Day one for the books.
Mother’s Day Pot Painting and Herb Growing Class
Sat. May 11
This Mother’s Day, take Mom to a pot painting and herb growing class. She will receive a hand-painted gift and a plant that you picked out just for her. Supplies are provided, along with tips and tricks on how to make this a memorable gift that keeps on giving. 910 Bladensburg Rd., N.E., Washington, D.C., 1-2 p.m., $26.
Mother’s Day Kombucha Workshop
Sat. May 11
Take Mom out this weekend for an unconventional Mother’s Day Tea. Instead of your typical tea party, make a batch of fresh kombucha with integrative nutrition health coach Rachel Abbett. Guests will learn how to make this fizzy beverage as Abbett explains the do’s and don’ts of fermentation. You will leave with a mason jar full of starter kombucha, along with the knowledge to get brewing in your own kitchen. The workshop will conclude with an all-ages alternative to wine tasting, where patrons will sample various flavors as well as blend their own. 102 E. Fairfax St., Falls Church, Virginia. 11:30-1 p.m., Tickets start at $30.
Through May
Instead of brunching it up this Mother’s Day, why not run for a cause? Celebrate that special someone in your life with the sixth annual Mother’s Day 5K & 10K, hosted by Virtual Run Events. You choose the course and pace as you time yourself and report your finishing times to the organization. Of each registration, 15 percent will go to VITAMIN ANGELS, an institution that administers vitamins and minerals to mothers and babies that need them. Guests can complete their race any time in May, even better if it’s on Mother’s Day. Check website for location and time, Tickets start at $9.
Sunday, May 12
Spend the day with Mom at James Charles Winery and enjoy a picnic at the vineyard in her honor. As you indulge in a specialized meal, make sure to grab a seat out on the terrace to watch some live music. James Charles Winery and Vineyard, 4063 Middle Rd., Winchester, Virginia. Tickets start at $20.
Mother’s Day Weekend at Mt. Vernon
May 11-12
Stop by George Washington’s place to see a bit of American history, take in gorgeous views of the Potomac and grab a photo with Mrs. Martha Washington. She will be handing out lavender sachets to all moms on the Mansion’s piazza. 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Hwy., Virginia, 9–5 p.m, Tickets start at $20.
May 12
Guide the family aboard the Odyssey and treat Mom to an event full of food, live music and breathtaking views. Pick between a two- or two-and-a-half-hour cruise along the Potomac River, and take in historical D.C. landmarks from the water. The brunch buffet includes items like smoked salmon and a build-your-own Belgian waffle, while the lunch menu offers prime rib, salmon and a dessert station. 600 Water St., S.W., Washington, D.C., Tickets start at $82.90/adult, $49.74/child for brunch and lunch; $109/person for dinner/ 9:15 a.m. boarding time for brunch, 2:15 for lunch and dinner.
Mother’s Day Brunch at Pinstripes
May 12
This Mother’s Day, what better way to celebrate than with a fun game of bowling and food? Dishes include custom omelets, carved prime rib, fresh shrimp, bagels, smoked salmon, waffles and a chocolate fountain. For the young ones, there’s even a Kids Corner with pizza, chicken fingers and mac and cheese. 11920 Grand Park Ave., North Bethesda, Maryland, 10-4 p.m. Tickets start at $34 for adults, $15 for children ages 6-12, kids 5 and younger are free.
Mother’s Day Tea at Green Spring Gardens
May 12
Sip on some tea and listen to classic poetry, all dedicated to moms this Mother’s Day. Make sure to stroll through the wooded stream valley, layered with more than 20 thematic demonstration gardens before or after the event. There will also be prize drawings and favor bags available. 4603 Green Spring Rd. Alexandria, Virginia, 1 p.m., $45.
Mother’s Day Garden Tour at Tudor Place Historic House and Garden
May 12
Take a springtime tour with Mom this Mother’s Day as experts guide you through an expedition of the historic gardens at this 5.5-acre, 19th-century property. Learn about plants that were initially seeded a century ago, such as the Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow forget-me-nots, Florentine tulips and grape varieties ascending the North Garden Arbor. 1644 31st St., N.W., Washington, D.C., tudorplace.org, 11:30 a.m., Tickets start at $15 for members, $20 for non-member.
