Mother's Day 2026: history, origins and initiatives in Italy

In Italy Mother's Day is observed on the second Sunday of May: in 2026 the date falls on 10 May. The day is marked by cultural initiatives, religious observances and family activities across many Italian cities.

The festival's origins trace back to Greco‑Roman traditions honoring fertility and to religious devotions to the Virgin Mary, while the modern holiday was shaped in the United States and officially established there in 1914 on the second Sunday of May. Italy adopted the second‑Sunday convention after historical and social changes in the 20th century.

For 2026 a number of local initiatives and special openings have been announced. Notable examples include:

• Egyptian Museum (Museo Egizio) in Turin: free entry for mothers accompanied by their children;
• masses and Marian devotions in parishes and small towns;
• family‑oriented cultural events and guided visits;
• children's sustainable mobility events, such as "Bimbimbici", in selected municipalities.

Mother's Day in Italy blends cultural, religious and social dimensions: municipalities, cultural institutions and associations use the occasion to highlight motherhood, promote intergenerational meeting points and offer activities for families.