Mother's Day in Ireland

Mother's Day in Ireland falls in March, unlike the American Mother's Day, which is held in May.

The Irish Mother's Day stems from the mid-lent Sunday, when the Church gave the faithful a break from the strict adherence to lent (though in Ireland this has been transferred to St Patrick's Day).

Traditionally, on Mother's Day, special masses would be held in the Mother Church of the diocese or in honour of the Mary, Mother of Christ. The history of Mother's Day in Ireland can be traced to medieval times where children from poor families were sent to work as servants and apprentices in rich homes.

Once a year, in the middle of the Lent, these children were given one day off to visit their 'Mother Church' and worship the sacred Virgin Mary at special masses. After visiting the hometown Church or Cathedral, these children visited their mothers and presented them with flowers they picked along the way.

This practice died out in Ireland around the late 18th century but was revived - with help from Americans - after World War II. Nowadays in Ireland, Mother's Day is celebrated with cards and gifts and held as a special day for mothers. Why not treat your mother to a trip to the ‘auld country' this Mother's Day...

If you would like more information about Ireland and the types of trips we have on offer including fly drive and escorted tours, please contact one of our Ireland based Guides who can provide you with a free quote.