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A host of surveys show that while “experiences,” whether going out for brunch or to a day spa, are becoming increasingly popular as a way to celebrate Mother’s Day, many moms just want the day off.
NRF’s 2025 Mother’s Day spending survey conducted by Prosper Insights & Analytics found that “gifts of experience” continue to gain traction post-pandemic, as 36% of men plan to gift experiences this year, up from 29% in 2019. The survey further found that nearly half of consumers (48%) believe finding a gift that’s “unique or different” is most important to them, followed by 42% who say they want to find a gift that creates a special memory.
“Alongside traditional gifts like flowers or a card, gifts of experience are a way to create a special memory with mom,” Prosper EVP of Strategy Phil Rist said. “Whether it’s tickets to a concert or movie, a wine tasting or simply a scenic hike and picnic, there are options to fit any budget.”
A survey of 2,000 American mothers taken in April 2024 and commissioned by Online-Casinos.com found the top gift preferred for Mother’s Day to be “an experience together,” cited by 57%. However, many moms weren’t necessarily looking to head to the restaurant. When asked for the ideal activity, a “relaxing day at home” was cited by 41% of moms, with 43% desiring a “home-cooked meal (not by me).”
A recent YouGov survey similarly found that many moms prefer to stay home (35%) in what the polling firm said reflects “a possible desire for low-key celebrations or comfort-focused plans.”
YouGov still found the top gift pick for Mother’s Day to be taking mom out for a meal or drinks, cited by 38% of moms, followed by flowers (34%) and gift cards (29%). Interest in wellness or spa experiences as a gift option rose to 25%, up from 18% the prior year.
An OpenTable survey found that moms enjoy being taken out for a meal, but they’re also looking for a break. Of the moms surveyed, 44% agreed that having someone else take the lead on decisions on the day "makes the day special," with 39% admitting they’ve had to book their own Mother's Day meal. Reflecting on the findings, Caitlin Slavens, a psychologist and parenting expert, told Parents magazine, “We live in a culture that celebrates moms one day a year and leans on them the other 364.”