Mother’s Day is only two days away, and many South Africans are making final preparations to celebrate the special women in their lives. In 2026, Mother’s Day will take place on Sunday, 10 May.
The celebration date changes every year because South Africa observes Mother’s Day on the second Sunday of May rather than on a fixed calendar date. While some shoppers secured gifts and bookings weeks ago, many people are only now rushing to make plans before Sunday.
WHY MOTHER’S DAY MOVES EACH YEAR
Unlike holidays such as Christmas and New Years Eve, Mother’s Day does not have a permanent calendar date. Instead, it always falls on the second Sunday in May. In 2025, the celebration took place on 11 May, while in 2026 it moves slightly earlier.
This often catches shoppers off guard and leads to packed restaurants, limited flower availability and expensive last-minute shopping during the final days before the celebration.
LAST-MINUTE GIFT IDEAS
Although time is running out, shoppers still have several affordable options available before Sunday.
Popular last-minute Mother’s Day gifts include flower bouquets, chocolate hampers, fragrance sets, spa vouchers, breakfast or lunch outings, as well as handwritten letters and personalised photo frames.
Many local businesses and online stores are also advertising final Mother’s Day specials this weekend.
In Cape Town, PETAL&POST Cape Town is offering Mother’s Day flower bouquets, gift boxes and same-day deliveries for shoppers still searching for gifts before Sunday.
AFFORDABLE MOTHER’S DAY LUNCH SPECIALS
Families still planning a Sunday outing can also find affordable restaurant specials this weekend.
Rockets Bryanston, Menlyn and Beach Club are inviting families to celebrate Mother’s Day with a specially curated 3-course dining experience designed to honour mothers in style. The experience costs R550 per adult and R200 per child, with limited seating available at all three venues. The Mother’s Day celebration will take place on Sunday, and bookings are essential due to high demand.
Restaurant bookings continue to fill up quickly ahead of Sunday, with many venues encouraging customers to reserve tables early to avoid disappointment.
WHY PLANNING AHEAD FOR MOTHER’S DAY HELPS
Even though this year’s celebration is almost here, many shoppers already plan ahead for annual occasions like Mother’s Day to avoid stress and overspending.
Setting a yearly phone reminder can help people prepare earlier for future celebrations. Planning ahead also often means cheaper prices, better restaurant availability and more personalised gift options.
With only two days left before Sunday, many South Africans are now racing to make the weekend memorable for their loved ones.
