Mother’s Day across the New England region is set to be marked by community events, live music, local food, garden experiences and fundraising walks, offering a wide range of ways to celebrate the occasion.
Beyond the flowers and breakfast-in-bed traditions, Mother’s Day also has a long-established cultural history.
Modern Mother’s Day traces its origins to early 20th-century campaigns in the United States led by activist Anna Jarvis, who advocated for a day recognising the role and sacrifices of mothers. The idea quickly spread internationally and was adopted in Australia soon after.
By the 1920s, Mother’s Day had become widely recognised in Australia, supported in part by florists and retailers, and it has since been held on the second Sunday in May each year. While the day has become more commercial over time, its central focus remains appreciation, gratitude and time with family.
In 2026, Mother’s Day falls on Sunday, 10 May.
Mother’s Day Classic – Armidale & Tamworth
The Mother’s Day Classic returns to the region, bringing communities together in support of breast and ovarian cancer research.
Armidale participants will gather at SportUNE for a walk or run through a scenic course designed for all ages and fitness levels.
Tamworth will also host its own event, continuing the tradition of fundraising, remembrance and community participation on Mother’s Day.
Armidale
https://www.mothersdayclassic.com.au/event/mothers-day-classic-armidale/home
Tamworth
https://www.mothersdayclassic.com.au/event/mothers-day-classic-tamworth/home
Classical Music Performances in the Lead-Up to Mother’s Day
Leading classical musicians Konstantin Shamray and David Griffiths will perform in the region between 7 and 9 May, offering audiences a refined cultural experience ahead of the weekend.
Tamworth: https://events.humanitix.com/konstantin-shamray
Armidale: https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1511631
Gunnedah: https://events.humanitix.com/shamrayandgriffiths
Glenrock Gardens – Tenterfield
Glenrock Gardens will open for a special Mother’s Day weekend, inviting visitors to explore the gardens and enjoy breakfast or lunch in a relaxed setting.
Entry to the gardens is free, with bookings essential for dining.
https://www.glenrockgardens.com.au
Dates: Saturday 9 May and Sunday 10 May 2026 (from 7:30am)
Moree on a Plate
Moree on a Plate returns as a celebration of regional produce, food and community connection, offering a lively and flavour-focused weekend experience.
https://www.moreeonaplate.com.au
Date: 9 May
Moments With Mum – Tangaratta Vineyards
Moments With Mum offers a relaxed, family-focused experience designed to encourage quality time together across the Mother’s Day weekend. BYO Picnic and enjoy the Tangarratta Cellar Door and Café, lawn games and a free mini family photo shoot.
https://www.tamworthregion.com.au/event/moments-with-mum/
Date: Sunday 10 May 2026
Sunday Afternoon Concert – NERAM, Armidale
The New England Regional Art Museum will host its Sunday Afternoon Concert, combining live music with a gallery setting for a calm and cultural Mother’s Day experience.
https://www.neram.com.au/event/sunday-afternoon-concert/
Date: Sunday 10 May 2026
Warialda Show – 120 Years of Tradition
The Warialda Show continues its long-standing tradition celebrating agriculture, rural life and community achievement, running across the Mother’s Day weekend.
https://www.warialdashow.com/
Date: Friday 8 – Sunday 10 May
From fundraising walks and live classical music to garden visits, regional food events and agricultural shows, Mother’s Day across the New England region offers a broad range of ways to come together.
Alongside the organised events, it’s also worth noting that many of the best ways to spend the day don’t need to come with a price tag, from scenic walks and park visits to simple catch-ups in local towns, the region lends itself to low-cost, meaningful time together.
Whether marking the day with family, friends or community, the weekend remains focused on appreciation, connection and shared time.
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