While there’s hope of a return to some kind of normality ahead of us, Mother’s Day this year will still be a little different to how we might usually choose to spend it. Still, after a difficult year for everyone, we’re all for any excuse to show the people you care about some love. Whether it’s your own mum, family member, support bubble or a friend who you think deserves a treat for navigating motherhood in lockdown, take a look at some of our Mother’s Day ideas – including ways of celebrating at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in London.

Enjoy a springtime stroll

The Park is home to incredible wildlife and plants all year round, but we like to think spring is when it really comes into its own. So rather than buying a bouquet to share this Mother’s Day, explore the beautiful blooms planted around the Park instead! From golden daffodils to pretty pastel blossoms, surround your mum – or whoever you’re with – with scents and colours. Read more about our parklands and gardens before planning your route around the Park – with so many hidden spots and winding pathways to follow, it's easy to forget you're in the middle of east London!

Zoom with a view

Not all of us are lucky enough to live within easy visiting distance of our loved ones, especially when travelling is somewhat restricted. Instead, why not take advantage of the Park’s free WiFi, and bring your catch-up calls out into the fresh air! Whether settling down to dial in or taking your callers with you on a tour of the Park, it’s a great way to share a moment even when miles apart.

Pick up a picnic

As of 8 March, guidelines allow meeting someone from another household for relaxation as well as exercise – with appropriate social distancing, of course! With that in mind, plan a picnic with someone special, whether it’s your mum, auntie, friend or other family member! You can bring your own picnics onto the Park, or let someone else sort the preparation for you with a takeaway from one of the delicious restaurants and cafés nearby. Try street food to go from award-winning restaurant Barge East, enjoy a delicious hot drink from The Last Drop café or indulge in wickedly good wings from Randy’s Wing Bar at Canalside.

Plan a day for the future

As we look ahead to guidelines for loosening restrictions over the next few months, there’s plenty of joy to be had to finally begin to plan some long-awaited days out. With that in mind, if you’re planning on picking up a gift this Mother’s Day, why not make it something to do together later in the year? Whether it’s Skyline Views at the ArcelorMittal Orbit, afternoon tea at The Stratford hotel or tickets to an upcoming event, there’s something to suit everyone! Our ArcelorMittal Orbit vouchers are valid for eighteen months too, meaning there’s no hurry to visit before you’re both ready.

The Park is free to enter and open daily, and we’re proud to be one of the UK’s most accessible parks with step-free routes, smooth paths and plenty of seating! We also have toilets open in both the north and south of the Park at Timber Lodge and The Last Drop respectively. For the most up to date information on what’s open at the Park, take a look at our latest Coronavirus updates.