42 Mother’s Day Activities To Experience With Mum 2025

Let’s face it: shopping for the right Mother’s Day gift can quickly turn into a mad dash for anything that looks gift-worthy. But beyond the candles and gift cards, what matters is time well spent. With 62% of Aussies believing the day deserves proper celebration, we want more than just a box of chocolates. If you want to make the day feel special in a real, thoughtful way, keep reading.

Outdoor & Active Experiences

Picnic in the Park

Cost Guide: Free – $30 (depends on if you bring food from home or swing by a bakery on the way)
Ease of Planning: Super easy—just pack a basket, grab a blanket, and pick your park
Best For Mums Who: Love the outdoors, enjoy a chilled-out afternoon, or want quality time without too much fuss

A picnic is a winner, whether it’s the sweeping views at the National Arboretum or a classic family-friendly setup at Weston Park in Canberra. Centennial Park in Sydney is a top spot (seriously, over 91,000 Instagram tags can’t be wrong). Bonus: many Aussie parks have BBQs and playgrounds, so there’s something for everyone—even the fussy eaters and little whirlwinds.

Nature Walks or Hikes

Cost Guide: Free – $15 (you might splash out on parking or post-walk ice creams)
Ease of Planning: Easy—just pick a trail based on fitness levels and pack water
Best For Mums Who: Enjoy fresh air, want to stretch their legs, or love a bit of adventure

From the epic 65km Overland Track in Tassie to a gentle stroll on The Forest Path in Royal National Park, Australia’s full of hiking gems. Morialta Conservation Park in South Australia ticks all the boxes for a family-friendly outing—easy paths, waterfalls, and even koala spotting if you’re lucky.

Kayaking or Boating

Cost Guide: $30 – $100 (depends on whether you hire equipment or join a tour)
Ease of Planning: Moderate—best to book ahead and check weather conditions
Best For Mums Who: Love being near water, enjoy gentle adventure, or want a fresh perspective

Spending time on the water is peaceful, scenic, and exciting. Whether you paddle through calm lakes or explore river bends, kayaking or boating offers a unique way to take in Australia’s beautiful landscapes. It’s a chance to slow down and enjoy the rhythm of nature—together.

Stargazing

Cost Guide: Free – $30 (a small telescope or star map app can add to the experience)
Ease of Planning: Easy—just check the weather and head somewhere dark
Best For Mums Who: Love quiet, meaningful moments or are fascinated by the night sky

Australia’s got some of the best stargazing spots in the world. Head to the River Murray International Dark Sky Reserve for crystal-clear views, or keep it closer to home with Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park near Sydney. Want a truly iconic setting? Stargazing near Uluru is unforgettable—bring a cosy jumper and a thermos of tea.

Cycling Trip

Cost Guide: Free – $50 (bike hire, snacks, or café stop along the way)
Ease of Planning: Easy if you’ve already got bikes—just choose a safe, scenic route
Best For Mums Who: Like to stay active, enjoy exploring, or haven’t been on a bike in a while

From breezy rides through Centennial Park in Sydney to countryside rail trails, there’s a cycling adventure for every fitness level. Perfect for soaking up the sunshine, chatting while you ride, and maybe stopping off for a cheeky brunch. Remember helmets and water bottles—or risk the classic mum “I told you so.”

Family Sports Day

Cost Guide: Free – $20 (basic equipment like cones or prizes)
Ease of Planning: Easy to moderate—needs a bit of setup, but it’s all good fun
Best For Mums Who: Are playful, enjoy group activities, or have a competitive streak

Bring back the classics—sack races, egg-and-spoon relays, and tug-of-war. A family sports day is a great way to get everyone laughing and moving. Use a local park, divide it into teams, and don’t forget a small prize for the winning side (even if it’s just bragging rights).

Scavenger Hunt

Cost Guide: Free – $25 (DIY or printed clues, small prizes)
Ease of Planning: Moderate—requires a little prep but customisable for any age
Best For Mums Who: Love puzzles, enjoy surprises, or want something playful and interactive

Set up a scavenger hunt with clues hidden around the house, garden, or a nearby park. You can theme it around Mum’s favourite things or shared family memories. It’s fun and thoughtful and gets everyone involved in a light-hearted challenge.

Charity Walk or Run

Cost Guide: Free – $60 (registration fees or donations)
Ease of Planning: Moderate—look for upcoming events or create your own route
Best For Mums Who: Love giving back, enjoy fitness, or support a personal cause

Give Mother’s Day extra meaning by joining a charity walk or run together. Choose a cause that resonates with your family and participate as a team. Whether a big public event or a DIY walk around your neighbourhood, it’s a powerful way to bond and make a difference.

Visit Museums

Cost Guide: Free – $35 (many museums offer free entry or low-cost family passes)
Ease of Planning: Easy—check opening hours and pick an exhibit that interests Mum
Best For Mums Who: Love learning, enjoy art or history, or prefer quiet, thoughtful experiences

Museums are a wonderful way to explore new ideas and stories together. Whether she’s into science, culture, or visual arts, you’ll find an exhibit to spark her interest. It’s a slower-paced outing that still feels special and enriching.

Guided City Tour

Cost Guide: $40 – $150 (depends on the tour type and if it includes extras like meals or entry tickets)
Ease of Planning: Moderate—book ahead and wear comfy shoes
Best For Mums Who: Are tourists at heart, love trying new things, or haven’t seen their city in a while

Play tourist in your town or go out with a weekend city escape. Explore Melbourne’s street art-filled laneways, sip wine in hidden bars, or visit iconic museums. Then hop to Sydney to wander around the Opera House or head out to the Blue Mountains. Wrap it up in Brisbane with riverside strolls and a visit to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary—because who doesn’t want a koala selfie?

Cultural Festival

Cost Guide: Free – $80 (depends on tickets, food, and activities)
Ease of Planning: Easy—check local listings and book a table early if dining is involved
Best For Mums Who: Enjoy live entertainment, food, or soaking up a vibrant crowd

All across Australia, Mother’s Day often overlaps with cultural festivals, food events, and live performances. From bottomless brunches in Melbourne to high teas in Sydney and alfresco dining in Perth, there’s something delicious happening somewhere. Keep an eye on what’s popping up in your city—whether it’s jazz in Adelaide, artisan markets in Hobart, or a riverside lunch in Brisbane.

Historical Landmarks

Cost Guide: Free – $25 (some sites have small entry fees or guided tour options)
Ease of Planning: Easy—choose your region and start exploring
Best For Mums Who: Are history buffs, love quirky facts, or enjoy discovering hidden gems

Australia is full of fascinating stories. Head to Wangaratta and try panning for gold in Eldorado, then uncover bushranger legends in Glenrowan with a visit to the Ned Kelly Discovery Hub. The Bullawah Cultural Trail offers a deeper look into the Indigenous heritage of the Bpangerang people. It’s a day of learning, exploring, and maybe finding a gold nugget (no promises, but hey—it’s worth a shot).

Zoo or Aquarium Visit

Cost Guide: $30 – $60 (discounts often available for families or concession)
Ease of Planning: Easy—just book tickets and head out for the day
Best For Mums Who: Love animals, enjoy nature, or want an entertaining day out with the family

Whether you’re spotting lions, sea turtles, or cheeky penguins, a trip to the zoo or aquarium is always a crowd-pleaser. Many offer interactive exhibits, feeding times, or talks that add extra magic. It’s fun and educational and a fantastic family photo album.

Creative & Crafty Activities

Painting Class

Cost Guide: $40 – $80 (covers materials, venue, and usually includes wine or snacks)
Ease of Planning: Easy—just book online and show up ready to paint
Best For Mums Who: Are creative, enjoy social experiences, or love wine with a side of art

Unleash your inner Picasso with a paint-and-sip session. Studios like Pinot & Picasso have spots in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth, offering fun classes where you can paint native animals or dreamy Aussie landscapes. Some are themed just for Mother’s Day, with bubbles and playlists included—because painting is more fun with a glass of wine.

Photography Session

Cost Guide: $100 – $300 (depends on package, prints, and photographer location)
Ease of Planning: Moderate—book ahead, coordinate outfits, and choose a great spot
Best For Mums Who: Cherish family memories, love photos, or haven’t had a nice family portrait in ages

Turn fleeting moments into lasting memories with a professional photoshoot. Whether it’s a golden hour session in Melbourne’s Fitzroy Gardens, a coastal snap in Brisbane’s South Bank Parklands, or a floral backdrop at Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden, you’ll walk away with timeless keepsakes—and maybe a new profile pic.

Flower Arranging Class

Cost Guide: $50 – $120 (includes all flowers and tools, plus expert guidance)
Ease of Planning: Easy—most florists take online bookings and supply everything
Best For Mums Who: Love flowers, enjoy hands-on activities, or want to try something new

Create a bouquet that lasts longer than a store-bought bunch. Floral workshops in Melbourne and Sydney teach you how to arrange stunning seasonal blooms—or even craft everlasting bouquets using preserved flowers. You’ll leave with something pretty, fragrant, and handmade (which earns major points).

Memory Scrapbook

Cost Guide: $10 – $50 (for printing photos, stickers, pens, and a scrapbook or album)
Ease of Planning: Easy—pick up supplies from a craft store or book a local workshop
Best For Mums Who: Are sentimental, love storytelling, or enjoy creative crafts

Take a walk down memory lane with a DIY scrapbook session. Gather old photos, write down favourite memories, and create a keepsake that’ll be treasured for years. Stores like Spotlight often run workshops, or you can get crafty at home with glue sticks, washi tape, and a good playlist in the background.

Art Workshop

Cost Guide: $30 – $100 (depending on class length and materials included)
Ease of Planning: Easy to moderate—book online and dress for mess
Best For Mums Who: Love to express themselves, enjoy trying new mediums, or want a creative family outing

Join an interactive art class and let the creativity flow. Melbourne’s Brighton School of Art offers Mother’s Day workshops with options like abstract painting, sculpture, and drawing. It’s a lovely way to bond, try something new, and maybe discover a hidden talent.

Mindful Crafts

Cost Guide: $15 – $60 (yarn, tools, or workshop fees at local craft stores)
Ease of Planning: Easy—choose a calming craft and set up a peaceful space
Best For Mums Who: Crave quiet time, enjoy hands-on projects, or want to de-stress

Slow down and focus with mindful crafting like knitting, crochet, or even simple embroidery. These gentle, repetitive movements can be incredibly soothing—and you end up with something handmade and lovely. Check local workshops or set up a cosy craft nook with tea and soft tunes at home.

Gratitude Journaling

Cost Guide: $10 – $40 (includes journal, pens, stickers, or prompts)
Ease of Planning: Very easy—just grab a journal and start writing
Best For Mums Who: Enjoy reflection, love writing, or want to focus on the positive

A gratitude journal is a beautiful way to pause and appreciate the good stuff. You can pick one up from a local bookstore or stationery shop—some even come with prompts and decorative extras. Sit together, share memories, and turn it into a calming family ritual that lasts beyond the day.

Food & Culinary Fun

Family Cooking Class

Cost Guide: $60 – $150 per person (includes ingredients, instruction, and the meal you cook)
Ease of Planning: Moderate—book in advance and choose a class suited to all ages
Best For Mums Who: Enjoy hands-on experiences, love trying new cuisines, or want to cook with the whole family

Whip up some fun in the kitchen with a family cooking class. Otao Kitchen in Melbourne has been hosting all-age culinary experiences since 2014, with expert chefs guiding you through global recipes. Sydney Cooking School also offers kid-friendly classes, making it the perfect mix of fun, learning, and food you get to eat.

Wine and Cheese Tasting

Cost Guide: $60 – $120 per person (varies with the size of the tasting and venue)
Ease of Planning: Easy—just book a tasting session and maybe skip lunch beforehand
Best For Mums Who: Love gourmet experiences, appreciate wine, or are secretly cheese connoisseurs

Level up Mother’s Day with a guided wine and cheese tasting. At The Artisan Cheese Room, you can book a private session for up to 12 guests, learning the secrets of perfect pairings. Or head to the Wine Selectors Wine & Food Tasting Rooms for a deep dive into flavour, guided by passionate pros who know their Brie from their Barbera.

Brunch or Breakfast

Cost Guide: $25 – $60 (depends on venue and how many mimosas are involved)
Ease of Planning: Very easy—just make a booking at a popular spot
Best For Mums Who: Are foodies, love early starts (or long brunches), or enjoy Melbourne’s café culture

Start Mother’s Day right with a brilliant brunch. Head to a stylish café that serves elegant, seasonal dishes and good coffee—bonus points if it has cosy corners or sun-soaked seating. Whether she’s into avo toast, ricotta hotcakes, or a well-poured flat white, there’s something special about slow mornings and great food shared with family.

Wine Tasting + Lunch

Cost Guide: $250+ (luxury experience combining wine, food, and stunning views)
Ease of Planning: High—this one’s a splurge experience and needs early booking
Best For Mums Who: Love luxury, fine dining, and making unforgettable memories

Combine the elegance of wine tasting with the indulgence of a gourmet dinner, all set against a stunning natural backdrop. Choose a vineyard with scenic views and let Mum enjoy expertly paired wines and a beautifully curated meal. It’s a chance to slow down, savour each bite and sip, and enjoy a truly special evening—from the first glass to dessert under the stars.

Adventure + Picnic

Cost Guide: $60 – $150 (depends on the experience and picnic options selected)
Ease of Planning: Moderate—book through a local adventure service like Wild Adventures Melbourne
Best For Mums Who: Enjoy nature, love surprises, or want an outdoor escape with flair

Escape the crowds and head off the beaten path with a secret adventure picnic on the Mornington Peninsula. Wild Adventures Melbourne offers curated bushwalks to hidden spots, complete with luxe grazing boxes packed with fresh local goodies. It’s rustic, romantic, and seriously cool.

Virtual Cooking Class

Cost Guide: $80 – $200 (includes private chef session and ingredients delivered to your door)
Ease of Planning: Easy—book online, receive your ingredients, and log in from the kitchen
Best For Mums Who: Prefer staying in, love gourmet meals, or want a fun, personalised experience

Stay in and cook up something special with a private virtual class from CHEFIN Australia. A personal chef builds your menu based on preferences and dietary needs, then guides you step-by-step via video call. All ingredients are delivered in advance—so it’s zero fuss, maximum flavour.

Online Wine Tasting

Cost Guide: $80 – $120 (includes sample wines, glassware, and tasting session)
Ease of Planning: Easy—order the tasting kit and schedule your session
Best For Mums Who: Love wine, prefer relaxing at home, or want a unique digital experience

Take a virtual tour through South Australia’s wine regions with Cellar Door Virtual Tours. You’ll taste six wines, learn from a real winemaker, and sip from a crystal stemless glass delivered as part of the kit. It’s a stay-at-home experience that feels first-class.

Relaxation & Wellness

Home Spa Day

Cost Guide: $20 – $80 (depends on the products you already have or want to splurge on)
Ease of Planning: Easy—just gather your spa essentials and block off some quiet time
Best For Mums Who: Love pampering, need relaxation, or want to unwind without leaving the house

Turn your home into a five-star retreat with a DIY spa day. Start with a warm soak using bath salts or essential oils, then treat your skin to a facial—cleanse, exfoliate, mask, the works. Follow it up with a full-body scrub and a self-massage using aromatic oils, and round it all off with a mani-pedi. Add soft music and candles for bonus spa vibes.

Yoga or Meditation Session

Cost Guide: Free – $40 (free YouTube sessions or studio drop-in classes)
Ease of Planning: Easy—book a class or set up a quiet space at home
Best For Mums Who: Value mindfulness, want to de-stress, or enjoy gentle movement

Flow into peace with a yoga or meditation session. Many Aussie studios offer special Mother’s Day classes, or you can keep it cosy at home with a DIY setup. Light a candle, roll out the mat, and stream a calming video. Even 20 minutes of guided breathwork can make Mum feel lighter and more centred.

Backyard Movie Night

Cost Guide: $30 – $150 (depends on if you rent gear or already have a projector)
Ease of Planning: Moderate—requires setup but super doable with basic gear
Best For Mums Who: Enjoy films, love family time, or want something laid-back but thoughtful

Bring the big screen home with a backyard cinema experience. All you need is a projector (or large screen), some fairy lights, blankets, and Mum’s favourite flicks. Don’t forget the popcorn and mocktails—or something bubbly, if that’s her vibe. It’s simple, fun, and surprisingly magical under the stars.

Meaningful Acts of Service

Cost Guide: Free (just your time and heart)
Ease of Planning: Easy to moderate—find a cause and reach out in advance
Best For Mums Who: Are compassionate, community-minded, or value giving back

Make Mother’s Day meaningful by volunteering for a cause that resonates with your mum’s values. Skip the general events and choose something personal—it’ll feel more impactful and heartfelt.

• Animal Rescue: Walk dogs, feed kittens, or help clean enclosures at a local shelter.
• Environmental Groups: Join a park or beach clean-up or participate in a tree-planting day.
• Libraries & Museums: Volunteer at places she loves—helping with events, organising books, or guiding visitors.
• Charity Work: Support a cause close to her heart, like cancer research, children’s health, or poverty relief.

Letter-Writing Campaign

Cost Guide: Free – $10 (paper, pens, and postage if needed)
Ease of Planning: Easy—gather supplies and decide where your letters are going
Best For Mums Who: Are compassionate, love thoughtful gestures, or want to spread kindness

Write from the heart and brighten someone else’s day. Organise a letter-writing campaign for mothers in hospitals, aged care homes, or military service. It’s a simple yet powerful way to celebrate all kinds of mums—especially those who may feel forgotten. Bonus: it’s great for kids to get involved too.

Memory-Making & Legacy Projects

Storytelling Session

Cost Guide: Free – $10 (just bring snacks and maybe a recording device)
Ease of Planning: Easy—just set aside time and create a cosy space
Best For Mums Who: Are sentimental, love family history, or enjoy sharing stories with the next generation

Gather around and take turns sharing stories from the past—funny tales, travel adventures, or meaningful memories from different generations. Set the mood with blankets, cushions, and snacks. You can even record the session for a digital time capsule that future family members will love.

Genealogy Project

Cost Guide: Free – $50 (depending on whether you use online subscriptions or print materials)
Ease of Planning: Moderate—requires a bit of research and curiosity
Best For Mums Who: Are history lovers, curious about their roots, or enjoy family connections

Take a deep dive into your family’s heritage with a genealogy project. Use sites like Ancestry.com or visit local historical societies to trace your lineage. Share stories as you go, and build a family tree to visualise your ancestry—it’s a meaningful way to connect with your past and each other.

Personalised Photo Album

Cost Guide: $15 – $60 (photo printing, album supplies, or digital photo book services)
Ease of Planning: Easy—gather photos and get crafty (or go digital)
Best For Mums Who: Love memories, enjoy scrapbooking, or appreciate heartfelt gifts

Gather your favourite family photos and create a personalised album filled with memories. Add captions, handwritten notes, and little mementos to tell the story behind each moment. Whether it’s a physical scrapbook or a sleek digital photo book, this one always hits the heart.

Family Talent Show

Cost Guide: Free – $20 (basic props, costumes, or snacks for the crowd)
Ease of Planning: Easy—set a time, decorate a little, and let the show begin
Best For Mums Who: Love laughter, enjoy creativity, or want a joyful family gathering

Put on a family talent show where everyone gets their moment in the spotlight. Singing, dancing, jokes, magic tricks—whatever your crew’s got, now’s the time to show it off. You can even film it for future laughs or invite friends over for a full audience experience. Guaranteed giggles.

Entertainment & At-Home Fun

Themed Movie Marathon

Cost Guide: Free – $20 (streaming access and snacks)
Ease of Planning: Easy—just pick a theme and get comfy
Best For Mums Who: Love movies, enjoy relaxing at home, or want a chill day with family

Create a cosy cinema vibe at home with a movie marathon tailored to Mum. Choose her favourites—comedies, dramas, or Aussie classics—and add snacks, drinks, and piles of blankets. Whether you’re laughing at rom-coms or crying through a heartfelt drama, it’s the perfect excuse to stay in and unwind together.

Trivia Night

Cost Guide: Free – $10 (basic supplies or small prizes)
Ease of Planning: Easy—write up questions and gather the crew
Best For Mums Who: Love a challenge, enjoy fun competition, or are general knowledge queens

Bring out everyone’s competitive side with a DIY trivia night. Create custom rounds based on family history, pop culture, and Aussie icons—think Neighbours, Vegemite, or Cathy Freeman. Divide into teams, keep score, and offer a little prize for the winning side (or just bragging rights).

Karaoke Contest

Cost Guide: Free – $30 (karaoke app, mic, or speaker setup)
Ease of Planning: Easy—set up your tech and queue the songs
Best For Mums Who: Love music, enjoy a laugh, or aren’t afraid to take the stage

Turn your living room into a stage with a family karaoke night. Use a karaoke app or YouTube, grab a hairbrush mic and take turns belting out your best. Aussie classics like INXS, Kylie, or Midnight Oil are a must—bonus points for themed outfits and power ballad passion.

Classic Games Night

Cost Guide: Free – $40 (if picking up a few extra games or snacks)
Ease of Planning: Very easy—just dust off the board games
Best For Mums Who: Love traditional fun, enjoy bonding time, or get competitive with Monopoly

Bring out the classics—Scrabble, Cluedo, Uno, or even Twister—for a night of low-tech, high-fun entertainment. Set up a table, bring snacks and drinks, and let the games begin. It’s simple, nostalgic, and guaranteed to bring out some laughs (and maybe some strategic glares).

Vintage Clothing Day

Cost Guide: Free – $50 (op shop finds or digging through family wardrobes)
Ease of Planning: Easy—just plan outfits and snap photos
Best For Mums Who: Enjoy fashion, love creativity, or appreciate a bit of playful fun

Channel the past with a vintage clothing day! Hit up op shops or raid Gran’s closet and piece together fabulous throwback outfits. Share stories about the era, do a little fashion show, and snap photos to remember the fun. It’s a quirky, personal, and photo-worthy way to celebrate.

Virtual Family Game Night

Cost Guide: Free – $15 (depends on the platform or if using paid games)
Ease of Planning: Easy—just send a link and set a time
Best For Mums Who: Have family interstate, enjoy games, or love connecting with loved ones remotely

If some families can’t be there in person, host a virtual game night using online board games or trivia apps. Use video chat to keep it social and interactive. It’s a thoughtful way to bring everyone together—no matter the distance—while keeping the fun flowing.

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