National Mother-in-Law Day
National Mother-in-Law Day is a special celebration dedicated to honoring the women who raised our spouses and have become our “second mothers” through marriage.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: Fourth Sunday in October annually
- Tagged as: Family appreciation day
- What’s the hashtag?: #MotherInLawDay
- When was it founded?: 1934
- Who founded it?: Gene Howe, publisher of Amarillo Globe newspaper
History
The holiday originated in Amarillo, Texas, when newspaper publisher Gene Howe created it to make amends for poking fun at his mother-in-law in his editorial column. The American Society of Florists later officially recognized the day, establishing it as the fourth Sunday in October.
Timeline
- 1934: First celebrated in Amarillo, Texas
- 1960s: Gained wider recognition across the United States
- 2008: Marian Robinson became a famous mother-in-law when she moved into the White House
- Present: Celebrated nationwide with growing popularity
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Oct 27 | Sunday |
| 2025 | Oct 26 | Sunday |
| 2026 | Oct 25 | Sunday |
| 2027 | Oct 24 | Sunday |
| 2028 | Oct 22 | Sunday |
Observed
The day is celebrated through family gatherings, special meals, gift-giving, and quality time spent together. Many families organize dinners, brunches, or other activities to show appreciation for their mothers-in-law.
Fun Facts About
- President Truman’s mother-in-law continued to criticize him even after he became president
- The holiday predates many other family-oriented celebration days
- It’s celebrated in multiple countries with different customs
Quiz
- When is Mother-in-Law Day celebrated?
- Who started the celebration?
- Where was it first celebrated?
(Answers: Fourth Sunday in October; Gene Howe; Amarillo, Texas)
FAQs
- Is there a Father-in-Law Day? Yes, celebrated on July 30th
- Is it a federal holiday? No, it’s an observance day
- Are there similar days for other in-laws? No official days for siblings-in-law
Importance
This day strengthens family bonds, promotes understanding between generations, and acknowledges the vital role mothers-in-law play in maintaining family harmony and traditions.
Related
- Mother’s Day
- Father-in-Law Day
- Family Day
- Grandparents Day
- International Day of Families