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Posted by Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism

According to the National Retail Federation, U.S. consumers spend roughly $1.9 billion on flowers, and roughly $671 million on greeting cards annually for Mother’s Day, making it the second largest U.S. spending holiday.
Arguably, though, the art of making that wonderful mother in your life feel extra special can be considered priceless – and, if you’ve found the idea of flowers and a card to be a little too traditional, know that Massachusetts is full of unique experiences that will help to cap off the ultimate “Thanks, Mom!” on Mother’s Day.
As Sunday, May 12th (Mother’s Day) is right around the corner, today on MassFinds, we felt it to be entirely necessary to showcase some things to do with mom across the entire Commonwealth − brunch options, ways to explore the great outdoors, events with music and entertainment, and activities along the shoreline.
Enjoy, and have a wonderful Mother’s Day!
Unique Massachusetts Mother’s Day Activities Across The Commonwealth
Mother’s Day In and Around The Hub…
Odyssey Cruises: Mother’s Day Brunch Cruises, Boston – This Boston Harbor delight includes a flower for every mom, Odyssey brunch buffet, children’s activities, complimentary juice & soda for kids, complimentary glass of champagne or mimosa for adults, live entertainment and spectacular Boston skyline and harbor views. Price: starting at $64.90 per adult, $32.95 per child age 3-12.
Duckling Day Parade, Boston Common, Boston – Based on the book Make Way for Ducklings by Robert McCloskey, children and their families will retrace the steps of Mr. and Mrs. Mallard and their family of eight ducklings. Led by the Harvard University Marching Band, children relive the adventures of Mr. and Mrs. Mallard dressed as one of their favorite characters from the book. To participate in the parade there is a $35 donation per family ($40 day of the event). Registration beings at 11:30 AM, and the parade starts at noon.
Lilac Sunday, Arnold Arboretum, Boston – The Arnold Arboretum’s large lilac collection comes into its glory in May, putting on an exuberant show of color and intoxicating fragrance. Visit on Mother’s Day, A.K.A. Lilac Sunday, which is the only day of the year when picnics are allowed! Free and open to the public, activities and refreshments will run from 10 A.M. through 4 P.M.
SoWa Open Market, Boston – With opening day having kicked off on Sunday, May 6, the SoWa Open Market takes place every Sunday afternoon through October in Boston’s South End. Overflowing with original works by local artists, artisans, and indie designers, there is also a farmer’s market, antique emporium, and much more. Each Sunday, SoWa is open from 10 A.M. through 4 P.M.
Fort Point Open Studios, ArtWalk, Boston – Join Fort Point artists as they open their studios to the public on Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 13 – also open 5/11 and 5/12 – featuring paintings, sculptures, photographs, textiles, jewelry, ceramics, and much more, that can help you find the perfect unique gift for mom on Mother’s Day. The studios will be open from 12 through 5 PM
Cambridge Open Studios, Cambridge – Artists throughout Cambridge open their doors to the public for the fourth annual citywide Cambridge Open Studios (COS) during two weekends in May. Meet local artists and discover unique paintings, jewelry, fiber arts, ceramics, film, mixed media, literary works, and more, all for free. May 12 & 13 – East & Central Cambridge. 12–6 PM each day.
A Delectable Brunch…
Langham Hotel, Boston – The “Bed, Brunch and Beyond Package” features luxury overnight accommodations, Sunday City Brunch for two in Café Fleuri, valet parking, and access to the fitness facilities, and indoor pool. Voted “Best Brunch in Boston,” the Langham’s City Brunch buffet is the perfect spot to celebrate Mother’s Day, offering an assortment of brunch stations from omelets to seafood, a Bloody Mary and Mimosa bar, and live jazz.
Peabody Essex Museum, Peabody – The Peabody Essex Museum will be hosting a Mother’s Day Brunch in the Garden Restaurant from 11 AM – 3 PM, prepared by Hawthorne Catering, served overlooking the museums peaceful Asian Garden. After brunch, your family can head over to the award-winning Museum Shop to pick out the perfect gift for Mom. For reservations and information, please call 978-745-9500 x3157. Museum rates apply for non-members.
Verrill Farm: Mother’s Day Brunch, Concord – Celebrate Mother’s Day  with an outdoor brunch along the beautiful setting of Verrill Farm, featuring live acoustic music, and activities for children. $30 for adults and $10 for children under 10. Reservations required, for booking please call: 978-369-4494 by May 11.
The Publick House, Sturbridge – Enjoy a delicious Mother’s Day Brunch buffet at this historic inn with traditional breakfast pastries, omelet station, and much more. A dinner buffet will also be offered this Mother’s Day, which will feature New England classic comfort food. Served from 10:30 AM – 6:30 PM, reservations required.
Mother’s Day Exploring the Outdoors…
Bridge of Flowers, Shelburne Falls – With the thought of Mother’s Day, the outdoors, and a glorious arrangement of flowers, the experience that comes to mind is, undoubtedly, the Bridge of Flowers in Shelburne Falls. The bridge, which used to function as an old trolley bridge, now features over 500 varieties of flowers, vines, and shrubs that span across 400 feet of pure beauty. The Bridge of Flowers is, in some ways, the definition of a beautiful Mother’s Day experience.
Zoar Outdoor, Charlemont – On Sunday, May 13, Zoar Outdoor, one of New England’s premiere providers of white water rafting, kayaking, and zip lining, will offer moms a free raft or zip with two paying members. Book activities and lodging and receive a 10% discount off of the combined price.
Cape Cod Kayak, Cataumet – Cape Cod Kayak offers guided kayak tours for all ages. This Mother’s Day, embark on a Popponesset Island getaway to take in the beautiful sites of Cape Cod. Tours generally last 2 to 3 hours.
Moose Hill Wildlife Sanctuary, Sharon – Celebrate Mother’s Day at Moose Hill with a pancake breakfast and nature walk. Start with a guided hour-long nature walk featuring signs of spring; after your nature walk enjoy a hearty breakfast. Tickets are $8 – $10. Free of charge to children 3 and younger.
Island Spirit Kayak, Martha’s Vineyard – Pamper mom with some time off to relax with a wonderful outing for her and the whole family! This adventure will bring you out to enjoy the island you love – from the water. You will paddle in calm waters out to a beach brunch picnic, complete with champagne and flowers for mom! No experience necessary, single & tandem kayaks available. Tours last 2.5 hours, and start at 11 AM. $75 adults and $55 children 5-12.
Arts & Culture…
The Lyric Stage Company of Boston presents Pacific Overtures, Boston – “Mr. Sondheim’s songs are complete miniature dramas, loaded and compressed to a profound intensity.” – New York Times.
 
 
Worcester Art Museum, Public Tour, Worcester – Join one of their talented museum docents for an overview of the museum collection. Free with museum admission. Tour begins in the Lancaster Welcome Center.
Mother’s Day Along the Shore and Islands…
Cape Cod Irish Village, Yarmouth – The Cape Cod Irish Village is offering its Mother’s Day package again this year. Book two nights during the weekend of May 11, and stay until Sunday at no additional cost. Each guest will receive complimentary breakfasts and one complimentary dinner, with live Irish entertainment.
Cape Cod Central Railroad , Mother’s Day Brunch Train, Hyannis- Take Mom back in time to when rail travel was the only way to celebrate a holiday. Enjoy a three-course brunch, while viewing the traditional New England views of Cape Cod. Many of these terrific views are only accessible by railways. Train departs at 11 AM, and advanced reservations required. Proper dress required, as well.

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