By Robby Osborne

Forget the flowers this Mother’s Day, and opt for memories that will last until next year. With a list of 15 Mother’s Day restaurants, we have your culinary needs covered, but a weekend—and Moms should get the whole weekend and not just a day—is made up of more than just food.

Relaxing or exciting, in the afternoon or late night, we offer ways to make Mother’s Day weekend a memorable one.

 

Mother’s Day Tea at Historic Green Spring 

Tea is an ideal and relaxing way to begin an afternoon. Sipping tea while hearing tales of the impressive mothers of Green Spring’s Historic House can both entertain and provide perspective about what it’s like to be dear ole Mom. The Green Springs Garden house is considered a “must see” for anyone with an interest in gardening. The tea and stories happen from 1 to 3 p.m., and are by reservation only.

4603 Green Spring Road, Alexandria
703-642-5173; fairfaxcounty.gov
May 11; $29 

Mother’s Day at Mount Vernon

If there’s one thing Martha Washington knows, it’s about being the first. She was the first First Lady and the First Mother of the United States. “Mrs. Washington” will be gracing Mount Vernon with her presence all weekend, dispensing sage advice to her youngest grand daughter, Nelly, and handing out a limited number of lavender sachets to other mothers. Along with the Lady Washington, Mount Vernon will be in rare form as all those late April showers have bloomed all the flowers.

3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway, Mount Vernon, 22121
703-780-2000, mountvernon.org
May 11, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Adults $17, Children $8

The Legwarmers

Children might find it hard to believe that their moms were once young, but it’s undeniably true. For moms out there with a love for the ’80’s that can’t be tamed, The Legwarmers, a D.C.-area tribute band devoted to the decade of decadence, are coming to The State Theater. Tickets are $18 and the doors open at 8 p.m., but the show doesn’t start until 9:30 p.m.. Order fast, the dance party is usually sold out.

220 N. Washington Street, Fall Church, 22046
703-237-0300, thestatetheatre.com
May 10, 8 p.m.; $18 

Mother’s Day with Mother’s Finest

Who says that being a mother and being cool are mutually exclusive? Despite their name, Mother’s Finest isn’t about bone china and doilies, but a band that describes their sound as a fusion of Funk, Rock, Gospel, R&B, Metal and Jazz. Mother’s Finest will play The Birchmere Sunday, May 11. The doors open at 7:30. It could be the finest way to end Mother’s Day, if Mom wants cut loose.

3701 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, 22305
703-549-7500, birchmere.com
May 11, 7:30 p.m.; $35

Now About Your Mother… A Mother’s Day Eve Variety Show for Mothers and Others

The Harried Americans, a D.C. metro group composed of singer/songwriters and their friends, will take on all things motherhood at the Epicure Cafe on May 10. With a goal of bringing a fun and meaningful aspect to Mother’s Day, The Harried Americans will feature comedians and storytellers along with their normal musical stylings. This show is for adults, and is free with a suggested donation of $10, Seats are limited, so reserve early.

11104 Lee Highway, Fairfax, 22030
703-352-9193, harriedamericans.com
May 10, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.; Free