Mother's Day 2026: when it is celebrated in Ukraine and what you need to know

The date of the holiday is determined by the calendar: in Ukraine, Mother’s Day is traditionally celebrated on the second Sunday in May.

In 2026, Ukrainians will celebrate Mother’s Day on 10 May.

The holiday does not have a fixed date, so it falls on a different day each year. The main rule is simple: Mother’s Day in Ukraine is celebrated on the second Sunday in May.

In 2026, the first Sunday in May falls on 3 May, so the second Sunday is 10 May.

It is not a public holiday in the usual sense, but it is a very important date for many families. On this day, people congratulate mums, grandmothers, godmothers, women raising children, and everyone who has become a true source of support for someone.

The history of Mother’s Day

In Ukraine, Mother’s Day was officially established in 1999. Since then, it has been celebrated every year on the second Sunday in May.

The tradition itself has deeper roots. The idea of a separate day to honour mothers spread around the world as early as the beginning of the 20th century. Over time, the holiday began to be celebrated in many countries, although the dates may vary.

For Ukraine, Mother’s Day holds special significance. It is not only a family celebration but also a day to remember a mother’s sacrifice, strength and responsibility. During the war, this date has become even more poignant: thousands of mothers await their children’s return from the front, support their families, raise children in difficult conditions, endure loss and, at the same time, remain the backbone for their loved ones.

How Mother’s Day is celebrated

On Mother’s Day, people usually congratulate their mums in person, by phone or via a message. But the most valuable thing on this day is not an expensive gift, but attention.

You could give flowers, a card, a book, sweets, a family photo, or something practical if your mum has wanted it for a long time. But often the best gift is time spent together: a shared breakfast, a walk, a leisurely chat, a helping hand with chores, or simply some kind words.

In schools and nurseries, children often prepare cards, drawings, poems and small concerts for Mother’s Day. Families use this day to reflect on their mum’s care, thank her for her support and try to make her day a little more peaceful.

What to say to Mum on Mother’s Day

The main thing is to speak simply and sincerely.

You could say: “Thank you for everything you’ve done for me”, “I really appreciate your love and support”, “You’ve always been there for me, and that means the world to me”.

This day doesn’t need to be over the top. It’s about gratitude. It’s about the fact that mums often do so much, but rarely ask for anything in return.

Why this holiday is important

Mother’s Day reminds us that a mum’s care isn’t something that just ‘happens’. It’s the daily work, emotional support, responsibility and love that shape a person from childhood.

For many Ukrainian families in 2026, this holiday will be particularly personal. Some will spend it with their mum, some will speak to her on the phone, and some will remember those who are no longer with them.

That is precisely why Mother’s Day is not just a date on the calendar. It is an occasion to pause and say those important words at the right time.

As reported by ThePublic, Ukraine marks Remembrance Day and Victory over Nazism on 8 May.

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