guides

2024 Guide to Celebrating Mother's Day in Chicagoland

By Debra Flanagan, Publisher April 24, 2024

This Guide is sponsored by Synapse Pediatric Therapy
We are a private speech therapy and occupational therapy practice with a clinic in Evanston, IL. Our team of compassionate Speech Language Pathologists (SLPs) and Occupational Therapists (OTs) are committed to helping the children and families they serve through relationship-oriented, play-based therapy. We love to help kids and families thrive!
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Let's make this Mother's Day extra-special! 

On May 12th, let's celebrate the Chicago moms and mom-figures in our lives by letting them know how much we appreciate everything they do for us the other 364 days of the year.

Here are events, activities, and even a few craft ideas children can do to show their love: 

A Night Out for Mom



Prom 4 Mom - Stage 773, Lakeview
The Ultimate Moms Night Out on May 11th! Free dinner buffet, dancing beginning at 6pm (!), photo booth with free prints, door prizes, and more. Cash Bar. Moms 21+. Register before April 30 for a chance to win VIP reserved seating for your mom squad.






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Bad Momz of Comedy - Zanies, Rosemont
Bad Momz of Comedy - Zanies, Old Town
Zanies is Celebrating Mother’s Day with the Bad Momz of Comedy! Soothe your Mother’s Day Hangover with the Bad Momz at Zanies Chicago! The Bad Momz of Comedy — featured on The NBC Kelly Clarkson Show — is a not-safe-for-playdates group of moms who celebrate the joys and challenges of motherhood, womanhood, and the joys of aging like fine wine — well, more like bad cheese. It’s not just a comedy night; it’s a celebration of unsung heroes – moms!

Barefoot in the Park - St. Bonaventure, Lakeview
In this romantic comedy, free spirit Corie and uptight lawyer Paul discover what love and marriage truly are. When the newlyweds invite Corie’s conservative mother and their unconventional neighbor on a double date…what could go wrong? Attendees of the Barefoot in the Park Mother's Day matinee may enjoy a complimentary mimosa during intermission!

The Choir of Man - Apollo Theater Chicago, Lincoln Park
This is THE CHOIR OF MAN, an uplifting celebration of community and friendship where everyone is welcome! It’s a party…it’s a concert…it’s a theater experience unlike any before.

Jersey Boys - Mercury Theater Chicago, Lakeview
Winner of Best Musical at both the Tony Awards and Olivier Awards, “Jersey Boys” takes you behind the music of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons to discover the secret of a 40-year friendship as the foursome work their way from the streets of New Jersey to the heights of stardom.  Full of electrifying performances of chart-topping hits including “Sherry,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,” “My Eyes Adored You,”and more “Jersey Boys” will have you “Beggin” for more! Jersey Boys is recommended for ages 12+

Like Mother, Like Daughter - Mercury Theater Chicago, Lakeview
A cabaret about the journey of a mother & daughter, starring Meghan & Stella Hoyt. One Night Only - April 29 at 7pm

Mother's Day Festa - Eataly, River North
Looking for a unique way to celebrate the mother figures in your life? Join Eataly on May 11 at their Mother’s Day Festa - in celebration of La Festa della Mamma - and treat your mom to the very best Eataly has to offer! Indulge in 8+ premium Italian bites meticulously crafted for this occasion. From the irresistible crunch of Suppli and the rich flavors of Baked Three Cheese Pasta, to the sweet notes of Limoncello Tiramisù and Chocolate Almond Focaccia, each bite will transport you to the heart of Italy.

Physician Magician - Rhapsody Theater, Rogers Park
Touted by the Chicago Tribune as an “immensely likable, intelligent and very intimate show,” Dr. Ricardo Rosenkranz is back by popular demand with Physician Magician at the Rhapsody Theater, for a limited engagement. 


A Special Day with Mom

All Ages Painting Events - Bottle and Bottega, Lakeview
Complimentary sweet treats for all the Moms. They supply the OJ, you supply the Bubbly! Ticket price includes all paint supplies, instruction, aprons and a 11x14 take-home canvas!

BOGO for Mother's Day - The Forge: Lemont Quarries, Lemont
If your mom loves being outside and trying new things, take her to The Forge for memories she'll cherish forever! Use Code: MOMFREE24

Family Mystery Picnic - Amazing Co., Available in Lincoln Park and Evanston
Your destination is a mystery and so is how you'll get there! The whole family will have fun throughout the day as you solve a series of puzzles and riddles leading you to collect delicious, gourmet picnic food from local artisan producers. End your adventure at a picnic destination you won’t forget and enjoy what you’ve collected along the way.  

The 49th Annual Mother's Day House Walk - Evanston
Celebrating its 49th year, the Mother’s Day House Walk is a beloved tradition on the North Shore, drawing hundreds of families back year after year to explore different neighborhoods and home styles as part of their Mother’s Day festivities. This year the tour ranges from an exemplary prairie-style home to one of Evanston's oldest residences.

Glitzy Girls Parent Child: Mom Memories - Weber Leisure Center, Skokie
Go on a date with Glitzy Girlz and make some special memories for Mom! Whether you are an adult and child making a Mother’s Day gift or a mom spending an evening with your special child in the month of May, this is a celebration of Mom! Each couple will make three surprises: ceramic, wooden and beaded items, with Mom accents and charms. A special gift wrapping/bags station will conceal any take-home surprises to save for Mother’s Day. One night only - April 29 at 6pm.

Hands-On Mother's Day Family Brunch - The Chopping Block, Lincoln Square
Bring the whole gang for a hands-on family class where children and adults will work together to prepare and enjoy a fabulous brunch perfect for Mother’s Day. This hands-on class is designed for children ages 6 and older to cook with their parents, families or guardians.

Mom & Me - Mother's Day Candle Making Class - Above Average Candle Studio, Edgewater
In this Mom and Me workshop you'll learn the basics of fragrance blending and make a custom scented signature candle. This is MORE than a class, this is a TRUE Experience. Mom will receive a special Mother's Day surprise. All supplies are included. Pick your day and time. Music, Games, Snacks, Prizes and Fun! Alcoholic beverages are available for attendees 21yrs or older. (at no additional cost)

Mother's Day Brunch - Blackberry Farm, Aurora
Treat mom to a special day at Blackberry Farm! Start the day with a beautiful brunch and then enjoy the day with mom at Blackberry Farm.

Mother's Day Brunch Grand Geneva Resort and Spa, Lake Geneva
Grand Geneva Resort and Spa has everything your mom wants for Mother’s Day: an extravagant meal with unlimited Champagne, a new Bloody Mary Bar, a relaxing spa, and maybe even a few hours of peace on the green.

Mother's Day Premier Brunch Cruise on Lake Michigan and Mother's Day Premier Dinner Cruise on the Chicago River - City Cruises, River North
In addition to incredible food, both cruises include, spectacular views of the city skyline and local landmarks, guaranteed table for your party size, and onboard entertainment.

Mother's Day at Replay - Replay, Andersonville
Brunch, games, and all the love for Mom at Replay Andersonville this Mother’s Day! Let’s level up the celebration with some serious fun and grub. Oh, and did we mention moms get a FREE photo booth session?

Mom's FREE Admission To Any Attraction on Mother's Day! Volo Auto Museum, Volo
As a small thank you to the amazing women in our lives, moms get FREE admission to Volo Museum, Titanic Museum and Jurassic Gardens all day! We will also be offering FREE double-decker bus rides as well! Enjoy some MOM-mosas and more!

The Movies and Mugs Moms Love - Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, Lakeview
Mother’s Day is better with our lineup of mom-approved movies, a refreshingly floral new mug, gift cards, and a fabulous Mother’s Day Feast.

The Rock and Roll Playhouse - Gallagher Way, Lakeview
Join on Sunday, May 12 for a free Mother's Day family-friendly live concert performed by the Rock and Roll Playhouse band. Get ready to dance to songs created by the most iconic musicians in rock history, listen to stories and play games. Doors open at 11 a.m., and the concert begins at 12 p.m.

Tea-rific Mother’s Day Celebration: Paint Your Perfect Tea Set! - Color Me Mine, North Center
Bring on your favorite coffee or tea while you unleash your creativity painting a ceramic tea set. They’ll supply the biscuits, cup cakes and the paint; you bring your imagination! Brew up some fun and make memories together. $115 per Mommy (Grand mother/Aunt) & Daughter – Pair. Reservation required to attend. Ticket price includes seats for 2 guests, 14 piece tea set, paints and glazing & firing.

Visit a Pick-Your-Own Farm or Farmer's Market.


Special Gifts for Mom

Mother's Day Mugs - Lillstreet Art Center, Ravenswood
Treat mom to her very own handmade mug. Decorate the surfaces with patterns, textures, and glazes that your mom will love. On Mother’s Day, give her a sweet surprise by bringing her coffee in a mug that she’ll cherish forever.

Mother's Day at The Original Rainbow Cone - Various Locations, Chicagoland
Mothers receive a complimentary Rainbow Cone with any purchase of $5 or more!

Paint a Mini Vase for Mom Building Blocks Toy Store, Lakeview
Join for a fun-filled afternoon of painting an adorable mini vase to surprise and delight your mom!

Silhouettes for Mom - Building Blocks Toy Store, Lakeview
Watch as Cassidy Alexander works her magic creating stunning silhouette portraits right before your eyes. It's a unique opportunity to capture a timeless keepsake of your loved ones.

Sweets and Treats



Crafts for the Kids to Make

Handmade gifts are all about the heart. Help the kids make gifts for mom she's sure to treasure: