Metro Detroit Top Mother's Day Events of 2023

As Mother's Day approaches, there's no better time to celebrate the incredible moms in our lives. Metro Detroit is brimming with unique experiences and culinary delights, ensuring a memorable holiday for all. From picturesque picnics and outdoor adventures to exquisite dining options, this guide has something for everyone. So, let's embark on a journey filled with heartfelt moments, irresistible cuisine, and unforgettable experiences that are sure to make this Mother's Day truly special.

HISTORY OF MOTHER’S DAY

Before we dive into the festivities, let's journey back in time and unearth the fascinating history of Mother's Day. While the roots of this day can be traced back to the Civil War era, it was Ann Jarvis who truly brought it to life in 1908. Mother's Day during the Civil War, dubbed "Mothering Day," was a poignant occasion where grieving mothers from both sides of the conflict united to find solace and reconciliation. Ann Jarvis, determined to carry on this tradition of honoring mothers, championed the cause until Congress unanimously passed legislation in 1914, followed by a presidential signature from Woodrow Wilson.

However, not all was rosy in the world of Mother's Day. Just nine years after its inception, commercialization swooped in, led by greeting card companies looking to cash in on the celebration. The indomitable Ann Jarvis fought tooth and nail against this intrusion, spending her entire fortune and the rest of her life crusading for a more authentic, heartfelt commemoration. To her, greeting cards represented a lackadaisical substitute for an annual, heartwarming letter to Mom. In a twist of irony, she was even arrested in 1948 for disturbing the peace while protesting the very commercialization she had inadvertently spawned. How's that for an intriguing piece of history?

Now, with that dose of knowledge under our belts, let the Mother's Day festivities begin! We’ve split our list into two sections, covering activities to enjoy with mom, and the perfect places for a wonderful dining experience. 

Activities

PICNIC & KAYAK AT BELLE ISLE 

If the weather permits, revel in the beauty of Belle Isle with a picturesque picnic. This gem is often overlooked, so why not make the most of it? Pack your own food or grab a delicious meal on the go – our top picks include breakfast or sandwiches from Mudgie's Deli and the 3rd Street Philly with cilantro fries from Detroit 75 Kitchen.

While you’re visiting Belle Isle, unleash your adventurous spirit with a kayaking trip! RKC Adventures provides kayak rentals, so you and Mom can explore the inland lakes, soak up some sun, and create lasting memories together.

DETROIT TIGERS GAME 

The Detroit Tigers might be struggling this season, but nothing beats the lively atmosphere at Comerica Park during Mother's Day weekend. With a smorgasbord of tantalizing new food options, you'll be spoilt for choice. From barbecue ribs and poutine fries to charcoal-grilled chicken and hot chicken biscuits, it's like a mini taste of Detroit! Indulge in scrumptious offerings from Green Dot Stables, Taqueria El Rey, and Detroit 75 Kitchen. 

Pre-Mothers Day Luncheon 

On Friday, May 5th, pamper Mom with an elegant three-course luncheon at Meadow Brook Hall in Rochester. This exclusive event includes wine service, live musical entertainment, a self-guided tour of the historic mansion, and a flower for Mom. Hurry, tickets are expected to sell out! Priced at $75 per person, you can book your spot using the link provided in the comments.

ART BIRMINGHAM 

On Saturday, May 13th, round up the family and escort Mom to Art Birmingham. With 175 artists showcasing their work, it's a cultural feast that's sure to delight. Though it might not be everyone's cup of tea, Mom is bound to appreciate the gesture. Cap off the day with a delectable dinner at Zana, Adache, or Tallulah – you're sure to win her heart!

Dining

Now, let's talk about the pièce de résistance of any celebration – the food! We've handpicked five top dining spots for 2023 that you'll want to book well in advance, as they're bound to fill up quickly. So, without further ado, let's explore these culinary delights!

The Whitney Detroit 

This year, The Whitney steals the show with a revamped menu that features a mouthwatering three-course offering. In addition to scrumptious classics like scrambled eggs, French toast, and chicken, their signature Beef Wellington entree takes center stage – a center-cut filet with Boursin Gournay cheese, lovingly wrapped in puff pastry and drizzled with a peppercorn brandy cream sauce. And, of course, you can't forget the stunning ambiance The Whitney provides!

Leila 

A newcomer to our Mother's Day list, Leila dazzles with a delectable four-course menu. This year, they've added their signature Branzino and Lamb Chops as entree options. Plus, the prime downtown location offers the perfect opportunity for a leisurely post-meal stroll.

The Rugby Grille 

Located in Birmingham, The Rugby Grille is now taking reservations for their exquisite four-course prix-fixe Mother's Day menu on May 14th. At $125 per person, this culinary adventure includes the famed Townsend Brick Chicken and baked French toast as entree choices. But, we highly recommend giving the lobster salad a try for the second course – you won't be disappointed!

Blake's 

For those who adore Blake's, the good news is that both Blake's Backyard and Blake's Tasting Room are featured in this year's lineup! Offering a more budget-friendly experience, the Backyard comes in at $22 per person, while the Tasting Room is priced at $29. It's well worth splurging the extra $7 to indulge in the Tasting Room's delectable menu. Plus, Blake's offers an adventurous experience with its expansive grounds to explore. For those who have never visited before, be sure to try the Brussels sprouts, French toast, and well-done bacon for a delightful breakfast treat. To get a sneak peek of the experience, check out the video on Blake's.

FRAMEBar 

Located in Hazel Park, FRAMEbar is another must-visit destination. Known for its rotating lineup of food trucks, Frame Bar is hosting a Mother's Day brunch that's hard to resist. On the menu, you'll find gazpacho from southern Spain, Spanish frittatas, skillets with chorizo, pan con tomate, and Basque-style burnt cheesecake. To top it all off, there will be live Flamenco music, an array of reserved Spanish wines, house-made sangria, and plenty of non-alcoholic beverages for the younger crowd or those who prefer to abstain. It's a Mother's Day celebration that's sure to be in high demand, so secure your reservations quickly!

Bonus Event

EASTERN MARKET FLOWER DAY 

For those seeking a bonus post-Mother's Day outing, Eastern Market's Flower Day on May 21st is an excellent choice. Happening just a week after Mother's Day, this event is the largest of its kind at Eastern Market, drawing over 150,000 visitors annually. Established in 1967, Flower Day features hundreds of flower growers from Michigan, Canada, and beyond, showcasing their prized blooms.

Spread across 15 acres, you'll discover a plethora of hearty flower varieties, including rare orchids, snapdragons, hanging baskets, shrubs, and so much more. The friendly growers are more than happy to share tips on how to help their plants thrive. In addition to the floral extravaganza, you can also enjoy farm-fresh produce, food trucks, live music, and locally made baked goods. It's truly a lively experience!

Don't forget to explore the surrounding shops and sample the culinary delights at nearby restaurants. And, of course, no outing would be complete without an incredible Bloody Mary from Vivio's – the perfect accompaniment to any occasion. So, mark your calendars and treat Mom to a delightful post-Mother's Day adventure at Eastern Market's Flower Day!

This Mother's Day in Metro Detroit offers an extraordinary array of experiences to make Mom feel truly special. From picturesque picnics and sporting events to culinary delights and artistic outings, there's something to suit every mom's taste. And with the added bonus of Eastern Market's Flower Day, you'll have the perfect opportunity to extend the celebration and make lasting memories. So, plan ahead, secure your reservations, and embark on a fantastic Mother's Day adventure that will leave Mom smiling, her heart full, and the whole family reminiscing for years to come.