Mother’s Day 2026: Events, experiences and dining specials worth booking now

Spoil the most important woman in your life this Mother’s Day with one of South Africa’s most memorable dining or experience events. Picture: iStock Mother’s Day falls on Sunday, 11 May 2026, and whether you’re planning a creative outing, an elegant afternoon tea, or a long, indulgent lunch, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate. Here are some of The Citizen’s top picks across Gauteng, with a few week-long picks thrown in.

For something a little different this year, consider pairing quality time with a hands-on activity. Samsung DQX at Design Quarter in Sandton is hosting A Morning Made for Mom on Saturday, 9 May, from 09:30 am to 11:30 am. The curated morning includes a live culinary experience with cookbook author Neo Nontso, a beauty masterclass by Catrice Cosmetics, and a bouquet-making session – all for R250 per person, or R450 for two.

It’s a genuinely thoughtful way to spend the morning before the big day. If you’re looking for something more intimate and refined, Fairlawns Boutique Hotel & Spa in Morningside is hostingCelebrating Mamason Wednesday, 13 May. The afternoon with baking expert Janet Kohler of Thyme2 Travel includes a glass of Graham Beck Cap Classique on arrival, a full afternoon tea, and a live demonstration of how to make a chocolate torte and angel food cake – all for R850 per person, which includes a gorgeous Ardmore tea towel to take home.

[paywall]

Those who’d rather stretch the celebration beyond the weekend can head to the Leaping Frog Lipstick Workshop at Beira Alta on 30 May, from 3 pm to 6 pm. For R380 per person, you’ll get a hands-on lipstick-making session, a welcome drink, snacks, a branded picnic blanket, and a goodie bag. Spaces are limited on all three events, so book early.Book on:Quicket For something creative in Centurion, UpsideDown Eatery in Rooihuiskraal is running a Polymer Earring Making Class on 16 May from 10 am to 1 pm.

At R380 per person, it includes all materials, a welcome drink, and a picnic box, and best of all, no experience is needed. Bookings can be made via their website at upsidedown.co.za or Instagram. Gauteng restaurants are pulling out all the stops this Mother’s Day. A few highlights from across the province: AURUM Restaurant, Sandton– R1 150 per person for a relaxed family-style lunch with a welcome drink, live entertainment, and a gift for Mom (12 pm – 4 pm).

[/paywall]