Mother's Day in Ireland

Mother’s Day in Ireland is a little different to much of the world. For one thing it falls in March rather than May. But at it’s heart it's not so different. It's still the day that families show appreciation for their mothers and grandmothers.

Most Irish People Don't Use the Term Mother

Before we go any further we should start by saying most people in Ireland don't use the term Mother. A study of twitter from Ireland a few years ago shows Mam is the clear winner, with Mum, Ma, or Mom found across the island. The more traditional "Mammy" has fallen out of fashion somewhat but is still holding strong in many places around Ireland.

There are also other terms of endearment of course - but we use them at our peril. You might hear some calling their Mother "herself" or "the auld dear" or "my auld dear" - but best not to her face!

If said at all, Mother is usually saved for the rare occasion when an Irish person might have cause to scold their mam! A very rare event indeed, and again risky!

What is the Irish or Gaelic for Mother?

If your cúpla focal is failing you, the Irish or Gaelic for Mother is Máthair. We've found this a nice inscription for engraving on our jewelry or for a special Ogham piece.

You can send your mam, mum, ma, mammy or mom Irish greetings by saying "Lá na Máithreacha Sona duit", pronounced “Law na Maw-her-aka Sun-a ditch” - Happy Mother’s Day!" Practice how to say it with me.

Irish Mother's Day has Links to Religion

Although Mother's Day in modern Ireland is a celebration of Mams, Mums, Mas, Mammys, and Moms, like many Irish holidays, it draws it's origins from a religious tradition.

Mothering Sunday was an occasion in Ireland and the UK which saw people visit their "mother" church. This meant the church where they were baptised or the nearest cathedral being the "mother church" for all the local parishes. Workers would return to their hometowns to mark the day with their families. With time and a revival in the 20th Century, the day became a celebration of families and in particular, Mothers, making our modern version of Mother's Day.

Irish Mother's Day is Early and Mobile!

Showing it's origins as a religious holiday, the date of Mother's Day In Ireland and the UK is linked to the Liturgical calendar. Mother's Day falls on the fourth Sunday during Lent, exactly three weeks before Easter. This might be one of the reason's why some Irish mother's are left wanting on Mother's Day; The date moves around each year, so it can be tricky to keep track of!

FYI in 2024, Mother's Day in Ireland falls early this year, on Sunday March 10th!

Be sure not to get caught! We have beautiful Irish jewelry sure to put a smile on her face this Mother's Day.

Irish Mother's get the Royal Treatment on Mother's Day

When we do manage to remember when it falls, Irish Mother's are usually made a fuss of on Mother's Day. Cards, flowers and gifts are typical. And falling as it does during Lent, many families use it as a good excuse for a hearty breakfast, with eating a theme carried through the day from brunch, lunch, or maybe a special dinner out. My daughters love making a fuss of their mam on Mother's Day.

The Irish Mammy is an institution

With Twitter accounts, TV shows, comedy sketches, and meme after meme after meme, Irish Mammies are an institution. Why wouldn't we want to spoil them?

Famously selfless, and at times downright formidable, they are the heart of the family. So don't forget to spoil your Mam, Mum, Ma, Mammy, or Mom this Mother's Day.