10 Ways to Spend the Day With Mom

Mother’s Day is on the way. That means time is short to plan a special way to say “thanks.” 

Every mom is different and so is every budget, but Mom really doesn’t care how much money is spent on her. It’s truly about the thought behind the celebration. Here are 10 ideas to celebrate Mom this Mother’s Day.

Run like a mother

If Mom is a runner, she’d probably love some company participating in Naperville’s first Run Like a Mother Race. Started in Ridgefield, CT in 2008, the event is expanding to other locations this year. This inaugural 5- kilometer event will be held early the morning of Mother’s Day at . There’s also a one-mile kids’ run, so everyone can celebrate the day with some pre-brunch exercise.

Healthy brunch

Head to Naperville’s for an early celebration with Mom on Saturday at their

B-Good to Your Mom event. Dine on an expanded hot bar brunch and enjoy entertainment from in the Whole Foods café beginning at 9 a.m. From 11:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m., moms can learn about their bone density score to promote a healthier lifestyle. Bangs and browns take center stage from 10-11 a.m. with free trims offered compliments of Hair Salon.

BlackFinn American Saloon

understands how special Mom is. In fact, they are treating all moms to a free meal and a carnation beginning 11 a.m. Guests will order off of BlackFinn’s regular menu. Reservations are recommended.

Springbrook and Naperbrook golf courses

If Mom’s ideal day includes golf, she can enjoy a free round on Mother’s Day, compliments of and golf courses—both properties of the .

“This is an annual tradition that caters to our golfing moms,” said Ed Provow, director of golf. “It’s a lot of fun to see moms come out with their kids, husbands or friends and just enjoy the day.”

Tee time reservations are recommended. Also, through Saturday, register Mom at either course for a chance to win the Mom-of-the-Year contest. Wine, golf and gift certificates for dining, spa and more are included in this amazing goody-laden prize pack.

Mother’s Day surprises in downtown Naperville

Not to be outdone, the downtown merchants play host to a Mother’s Day drawing to win one of 10 purses filled with prizes. Through Saturday, register Mom to win at various downtown merchant locations. The lucky winners will be announced on Mother’s Day.

Le Chocolat’s Mother’s Day dessert extravaganza

Chocolate. Enough said, right? Cathy Bouchard, chocolate aficionado and proprietor of the decadent is working on a dessert buffet to rival all dessert buffets — just for Mother’s Day. Guests will be able to sample to their heart’s content, enjoying cakes, chocolates and a wide variety of delectable indulgences, making it a treat for everyone – not just Mom. Reservations are required as limited space is available. The event will be hosted in Le Chocolat’s upstairs event space.

Breakfast at Egg Harbor Café

 is a great way to start breakfast any day and this Naperville breakfast hot-spot is a great place to start the Mother’s Day celebration. A casual and family-friendly atmosphere and a wide variety of breakfast items including scramblers, crepes and seasonal specials, make for an enjoyable experience. However, be ready for a bit of a wait; it’s the place to be in the morning of non-holiday weekends too.

Naperville Community Gardeners annual plant sale

Does Mom have a green thumb? She’d probably love some flowers to spruce up her garden this spring. Head to the annual Plant Sale hosted by the Naperville Community Gardeners Saturday beginning at 7:30 a.m. and pick up something pretty.  The sale, which is held at the on West Street, concludes at 2:30 p.m., or earlier if all of the plants have been sold.

Riverwalk picnic

A limited budget doesn’t mean foregoing a Mother’s Day celebration — it just involves a little more creativity. Start with some homemade salads and sandwiches, or stop at a nearby sub shop on the way and head to the beautiful  for a picnic to celebrate Mom. As for a spot, try Fredenhagen Park located east of Washington Street or the Grand Pavilion on the Riverwalk’s far west end. This space features a large picnic area and a beautiful view of the nearby DuPage River.

Ice cream treat at Colonial Café

If a traditional Naperville treat spot is more appealing, then take Mom’s celebration to . Whether it’s a family affair with the infamous "Kitchen Sink," a custom sundae or the beloved turtle, Colonial has been the place for the community to celebrate no matter the occasion. And, Mom could be in for a special treat. In years past, moms have been treated to complimentary juices, turtle sundaes and even flowers. Colonial is currently cooking up a Mom’s Day surprise for this year.