East End Mother’s Day Activites for the Whole Family
“All I am I owe to my mother.”
Even George Washington knew he couldn’t have done it without Mom, and so do the rest of us. With Mother’s Day coming this weekend, it’s time for a little creative thinking to show Mom she’s loved and appreciated. Brunch or breakfast in bed might be a nice kick off for her special day, but doesn’t Mom deserve more than French toast? Plan on a whole day of unique Mother’s Day activities that will give her what she prizes more than anything—quality time with her family.
If Mom enjoys being outdoors but isn’t exactly a camping kind of gal, an afternoon at one of the many vineyards on the East End may be a perfect family outing. Each vineyard tends to have its own personality and features, so it’s always a good idea to call ahead to ask a few key questions: Are reservations required for vineyard tours? Do they have play spaces for the kids? And, of course, what kind of goodies are on tap for Mom on her special day?
Wölffer Estate Vineyard in Sagaponack is a good choice for South Fork families. With a beautiful deck overlooking the vineyards, the whole family can sit, enjoy some snacks, and listen to live music.
Families on the North Fork might want to check out Lieb Cellars‘ vineyards, with locations in Cutchogue and Mattituck. A model of sustainable farming methods, Lieb will feature live music by Julia King from 1–4 p.m., and Mom will get a free wine flight.
If there are young kids in the family, a good choice for your Mother’s Day festivities might be Martha Clara Vineyard in Riverhead, which is not just kid-friendly, but also pet-friendly. Keep Fido on a leash, keep your kids supervised, and spend a lovely afternoon checking out the petting zoo and horse and carriage rides.
If Mom is a beach bum at heart, pack a picnic lunch and head to your favorite sandy shore. Ocean beaches may be a bit windy and chilly right now, but the views are still amazing and there’s tons of space for the kids to race across the sand. If you’re “beaching” in Montauk, the good news is Lunch, aka the Lobster Roll, opened May 1, and they will happily make your lobster rolls and clam chowder to go. If your kids are itty-bitty, Havens Beach in Sag Harbor is just right. There are swings and a small jungle gym, as well as a picnic table or two. When the young ones get antsy, you can head into the village for ice cream or frozen yogurt.
Bridge Gardens on Mitchell Lane in Bridgehampton is a public garden that feels like a secret world. Join Mom this Mother’s Day for Bridge Garden’s ongoing watercolor art class with artist Lois Bender. The class runs from noon to 3 p.m., and $45 per session allows Mom to bring a guest or two at no additional cost. “This is our third year,” Bender comments. “We get mothers and children, and quite a few grandmothers, too. It’s very inter-generational. We have a comfortable clubhouse we can work in when the weather isn’t perfect.”
Budding artists of all ages will appreciate the beauty of the garden and Bender will demonstrate techniques for novice painters. “Watercolor is forgiving,” she promises. “You just have to learn how to work with it.” Bender enjoys seeing children painting side by side with their mothers. “It’s really something nice to do as a warm-up for Mother’s Day. They can make Mom or Grandma a card and share it.”
No matter how you choose to celebrate this Mother’s Day, as long as it involves the family, and no housework, Mom will be very happy.