More Than Flowers

This Mother's Day, some of Riverside County's largest health organizations are doing something you don't often see: joining forces. Blue Zones Project Riverside, Riverside University Health System, Kaiser Permanente, IEHP, Molina Healthcare, Eisenhower Health, and the Inland Empire Health Plan Foundation have come together for a campaign called "More Than Flowers" — a countywide push to reframe what it means to support the moms in our lives.

The message is simple but the intention runs deep. Flowers are lovely. But what mothers actually need — mental health check-ins, support at doctor's visits, community that shows up on ordinary days — doesn't come wrapped in cellophane. The campaign draws on Blue Zones research showing that when mothers thrive, families and communities thrive alongside them. The goal is to turn one holiday into a year-round practice.

"Mothers are hubs of health and caring for so many," Erin Edwards, Executive Director of Blue Zones Project Riverside and former Riverside Ward 1 Councilmember, told the Gazette. "The More Than Flowers campaign is a reminder to moms to prioritize their own health, too. It's also a shout out to each mom's village to surround her with the support she needs to do so: a ride to a pre-post natal visit or childcare for a moment of rest and relaxation."

The "More Than Flowers" campaign launches this Mother's Day across social media and at community events, with Blue Zones Project Riverside County coordinating ongoing activities and resources throughout the year. Think of it as the village model — made official.

If you're looking for ways to spend the weekend in that spirit, Riverside has no shortage of options.

Wednesday, May 6 | Mother's Day Craft at Eastside Library at Lincoln Park

• 11:00am–12:00pm | 4261 Park Ave | Free

Kick off the week with a little creativity at Lincoln Park. This storytime-and-craft combo at Eastside Library is a sweet, low-key way to spend a weekday morning with a little one — or just enjoy the kind of simple fun that doesn't require a reservation.

Saturday, May 9 | Around the Gardens Bird Walk

• 7:00–10:00am | UC Riverside Botanic Gardens | Free | Register by May 6; arrive by 6:50am

An early morning well spent. The Botanic Gardens is a recognized bird hotspot for both resident and migratory species, and this guided walk is open to all skill levels — beginners included. Expect to spot upward of 30 species in a single outing, with light refreshments after. Paid parking available in the BG Visitor Lot or Lots 10 and 13 Blue.

Saturday, May 9 | Goeske Bingo

• Doors 9:30am, games begin noon | Janet Goeske Center, 5257 Sierra St | $20 minimum | 18+

Sometimes the best Mother's Day plan is a room full of people rooting for their own numbers. Bingo at the Goeske Center runs every Monday and Saturday — doors at 9:30, games at noon. Packs start at $20, with special games and a Powerball round worth up to $500.

Saturday, May 9 | Bridgerton Mother's Day Tea Party

• 11:00am–4:00pm | Loft 84, 3840 Lemon St | $28.52

For the mom who loves a little drama — the fictional kind. This themed tea at Loft 84 leans into the Bridgerton aesthetic with tea, treats, and plenty of occasion to dress up. A fun pick if your crew enjoys an excuse to be a bit extra.

Saturday, May 9 | Mother's Day Tote Bag Painting at Orange Terrace Library

• 3:00–4:30pm | 20010 Orange Terrace Pkwy | Free | Registration required

Paint a custom tote for mom, with mom, or in her memory — the library put it that way themselves, and it's worth noting. This free adult craft event is thoughtful in both design and spirit. Register ahead to hold your spot.

Saturday, May 9 | Pressed Flower Bookmarks at Arlington Library

• 3:00–4:00pm | Arlington Library, 9556 Magnolia Ave | Free | While supplies last

A quiet, beautiful way to spend a Saturday afternoon. This workshop for adults and teens covers the basics of making pressed flower bookmarks — a handmade gift that's also just a genuinely nice thing to make. No registration required, but supplies are limited.

Saturday, May 9 | La Tardeada Festival

• 2:00–11:00pm | White Park, 3936 Chestnut St | $25; children under 12 free

A full afternoon and evening of culture, community, and celebration at White Park. La Tardeada brings together local families, artists, entrepreneurs, and community organizations in a vibrant outdoor setting — the kind of event that feels like Riverside at its best. A natural fit for anyone who wants the weekend to feel festive.

Sunday, May 10 | Mother's Day Tea at Backstreet

• 11:00am–2:00pm | 3735 Nelson St | $200–$400/table | Prepaid reservations required

Reserve a half or full table and settle in for a beautifully put-together afternoon at Backstreet. Fresh florals, a curated tea spread, Backstreet's signature sandwiches and pies, Polaroid keepsakes, and an optional mimosa add-on make this one of the more complete Mother's Day experiences in town. Elevated without being stiff — and worth planning ahead for.

Sunday, May 10 | CA Citrus Park Mother's Day Tea

• 2:00–5:00pm | Sunkist Center, 9400 Dufferin Ave | $35–$65

There may not be a more Riverside setting for Mother's Day than this — afternoon tea among the orange groves at California Citrus State Historic Park. Live vocals by Carly O'Neill, a photo booth, family photo ops, and a full spread make this one a genuine outing. A lovely choice if you want the day to feel a little like the city itself.

Sunday, May 10 | Paint and Petals Mother's Day

• 2:00–5:00pm | The Experience Riverside, 10081 Indiana Ave #A1 | $44.52

Painting, fresh flowers, and good company — this one keeps it simple and celebratory. A nice option if you're looking for something creative and relaxed that doesn't require a formal reservation setup.