As spending rises, restaurants and deals abound for Mother's Day celebrations
Category: Lifestyle
As Mother’s Day approaches, many families are gearing up to honor the women who have shaped their lives. This year, with the holiday falling on Sunday, May 10, 2026, it’s not just about sending flowers or buying gifts; it's about creating meaningful experiences that celebrate motherhood in all its forms.
Mother’s Day 2026 is expected to be a record-breaking event for consumer spending, with estimates from the National Retail Federation predicting that Americans will spend an astounding $38 billion. This marks an 11% increase from last year, as 84% of U.S. adults plan to celebrate the occasion, averaging $284.25 on gifts alone. “Mother’s Day remains a priority for many Americans, and they plan to lean into the holiday,” said NRF Chief Economist Mark Mathews.
To help families celebrate without breaking the bank, numerous restaurants and brands are offering enticing deals. For example, Krispy Kreme has launched its limited-time "Minis for Mom" collection, featuring a variety of mini doughnuts available from May 7-10. Dunkin’ Rewards members can earn 3X points on bulk orders of donuts during the same timeframe, making it easier to treat moms to something sweet.
In Phoenix, several restaurants are pulling out all the stops for Mother’s Day brunch. The Boulders Resort & Spa is hosting a lavish brunch from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., featuring live music and a buffet priced at $115 for adults and $55 for children under 12. Hash Kitchen in Chandler offers a $45 brunch buffet from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., complete with a free build-your-own flower bar, allowing children to create custom bouquets for their moms.
The Hilton Phoenix Resort is set to offer an elaborate brunch buffet from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., priced at $125 for adults and $55 for children aged 6-12. With such diverse offerings, parents can choose from seafood displays, made-to-order omelets, and dessert tables, ensuring that every mom feels celebrated.
For many, this Mother’s Day carries additional emotional weight. Jewish mothers, in light of recent events, find themselves grappling with a unique blend of joy and sorrow. Tara Brown, CEO of Momentum, reflects on how the recent tragedies have changed the way Jewish mothers celebrate. She emphasizes that the bond among Jewish women strengthens during difficult times, stating, "When something happens to one of our children simply because they are Jewish, we all feel it." She encourages mothers to use this day to celebrate and to act with purpose.
Brown shows the value of instilling traditions and values in their children, particularly during challenging periods. “We need to strengthen our own Jewish knowledge and experiences so we can model the joy, resilience and pride we want to pass on,” she said. This Mother’s Day, she urges mothers to embrace their roles as communal stakeholders and to lead by example, demonstrating resilience and hope.
Restaurants across the country are preparing to welcome families with special menus and offers. For example, Outback Steakhouse is rolling out its Mum's Day Menu from May 6-10, featuring favorites like Filet Mignon & Lobster and Gold Coast Coconut Shrimp. IHOP is introducing Chocolate Covered Strawberry Pancakes, a delightful treat for moms who enjoy breakfast. Meanwhile, Pizza Hut will offer its heart-shaped pizza, usually reserved for Valentine’s Day, from May 4-10, adding a fun twist to the traditional Mother’s Day meal.
Other notable mentions include Wienerschnitzel, which is giving away free Chili Dog Meals for moms, and Tim Hortons, offering a bouquet of Timbits wrapped in a satin bow, perfect for a sweet surprise. These promotions celebrate mothers and make dining out more accessible and enjoyable for families.
As you plan your Mother’s Day celebrations, think about how you can create lasting memories. Whether it’s taking a family photo at brunch or participating in a special activity together, these moments can be cherished long after the day has passed. The Musical Instrument Museum in Phoenix is offering a unique "Moments with Mom Brunch," which includes a seasonal buffet and DIY card station for creating keepsakes, ensuring that the day is both memorable and meaningful.
In addition to the food and festivities, many families are encouraged to take a moment to acknowledge the emotional significance of the day. For those who have lost mothers or are facing challenges in their own parenting journeys, it’s important to find support and connection during this time. Whether through community gatherings or personal reflections, there’s strength in shared experiences.
This Mother's Day, as you celebrate the incredible women in your life, focus on what makes the day special for you and your family. With the array of dining options and deals available, you can create a celebration that honors the hard work and love that mothers provide every day. As Tara Brown poignantly stated, “We people, we are not what we say. We are not what we think. And we are not even what we believe in this life. We are what we do.” Let this Mother’s Day be a time for action, connection, and heartfelt celebration.
Make sure to mark your calendar for May 10, 2026, and take advantage of the many deals and opportunities to honor the mothers in your life. With so much to choose from, it’s sure to be a day filled with love, laughter, and lasting memories!