Treat Mom to a meal out on Mother’s Day on May 10, 2026 without breaking the family budget. Lower the bill by taking advantage of one of the many Mother’s Day freebies or deals. 

To celebrate moms everywhere, many restaurants and businesses are offering Mother’s Day specials and discounts. Bonus gift cards, free food and discounted gifts are all in the mix this Mother’s Day.

Most of the discounts are only valid on Mother’s Day. However, dates vary, so be sure you review the fine print.

After you’ve settled on your Mother’s Day plans, check out our Mother’s Day gift ideas. You definitely don’t want to show up without a gift in hand. 

The offers are only available at participating locations, while supplies last. Limit one per person. 

Whether Mom wants brunch, lunch or dinner, enjoy a frugal feast with these Mother’s Day restaurant specials.

Buffalo Wild Wings

Go wild with lots of appetizers on Mother’s Day!

Through June 10, 2026, Buffalo Wild Wings is offering its wildly popular Bottomless Appetizers for just $9.99. Best of all, that price is for up to four diners! Choose from five fan-favorite appetizers — served two at a time. 

Cafe Rio

Take Mom out for tacos!

Cafe Rio offers big savings with its $25 Double Meal Deal — includes two entrées, two drinks and chips & dip. The deal offers savings of nearly 40% off regular prices. 

The deal runs through Sept. 7, 2026. 

Dave & Buster’s

With your taxes done, it’s time to play!

For a limited time, Dave & Buster’s is offering half-price games five days a week — Sunday to Thursday. That includes on Mother’s Day, May 10, 2026! 

Edible

Send Mom a big arrangement of fresh fruit or other treats.

Edible offers a variety of special offers for Mother’s Day — up to 25% off. Check out the shop’s variety of fresh fruit arrangements, dipped fruit, cupcakes and more for a special gift for mom. 

KFC

KFC has savings all boxed for hungry bargain hunters!

For a limited time, KFC is offering a new Value Feast line-up with the introduction of three KFC Box Feasts — priced at $7, $9 and $11.

Each box includes fries and a medium drink. 

Lowe’s

Get Mom flowers for Mother’s Day! 

On May 9, 2026, Lowe’s is giving away FREE Spring Flowers to the first 150 customers at every location — starting at 10 a.m. Get more details here. 

Olive Garden

If you take Mom to Olive Garden, enjoy an take-home entrée for just $6. Pick up enough for the whole family. Choose from Fettuccine Alfredo, Five Cheese Ziti al Forno and Spaghetti with Meat Sauce. 

Red Lobster 

If Mom loves shrimp, take her to Red Lobster for a celebratory lunch or dinner on Mother’s Day! 

For a limited time, the popular seafood restaurant is offering its popular Endless Shrimp special — price varies by location.

Choose from Marry Me Shrimp, Shrimp Linguini Alfredo, Walt’s Favorite Shrimp, Garlic Shrimp Scampi and Parrot Isle Coconut Shrimp. 

Shake Shack

Shake Shack is shaking up Mother’s Day!

Fortunately, Mother’s Day falls during National Burger Month. And Shake Shack is offering a FREE single burger each week with a minimum purchase of $10 to celebrate the meaty month.

The offer requires this promo code at checkout. The juicy deal runs through May 31, 2026.  

Subway

Stop at Subway on Mother’s Day!

Subway just introduced its first-ever Fresh Value Menu with 15 popular entrées priced at under $5 — including a Sub of the Day for $4.99. (On Sundays, the Sub of the Day is Spicy Italian.) 

A family of four could feast for under $20! 

TCBY

Chill out with Mom at TCBY!

Mom’s first 6 ounces of frozen yogurt and toppings are FREE on May 10, 2026 at the popular froyo shop. If she swirls more, just pay for the additional ounces. 

Gift Card Bonus Offers 2026

Many restaurants are celebrating Mom by offering gift card bonuses and discounts. Buy the gift card as a treat for Mom or a way to save on dining out with the whole family.

Most gift card bonuses are only available online. However, some are available online and in-restaurant. Before buying, be sure to confirm the bonus. 

Alamo Drafthouse Cinema

Let’s go to the movies! Save 20% on gift cards valued at $75 or more at Alamo Drafthouse Cinema — from April 27 to May 10, 2026. Consider picking up a few discounted gift cards for summer fun! 

Anthony’s Coal-Fired Pizza & Wings

Slice into a bonus at Anthony’s Coal-Fired Pizza & Wings. Buy a $100 gift cards and receive a $25  Bonus Card — from April 27 to June 21, 2026. The bonus can be redeemed from June 22 to Aug. 30, 2026. 

Applebee’s

Buy a $50 gift card and Applebee’s will throw in a $10 Bonus Card — from April 13 to June 28, 2026. The bonus card expires Aug. 2, 2026. 

BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse

Raise your glass at BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse! Buy a $50 gift card and enjoy a $10 Bonus Card — from April 27 to June 21, 2026. The bonus is valid June 22 to July 13, 2026. 

Bonefish Grill

Buy a $50 gift card at Bonefish Grill and get a $10 Bonus Card — from April 20 to June 21, 2026. The bonus card can be redeemed from June 22 to Aug. 23, 2026. 

Carrabba’s Italian Grill

Gather the family and enjoy a meal at Carrabba’s Italian Grill. For every $50 spent in gift cards, receive a $10 Bonus Card — from April 20 to June 21, 2026. The bonus card can be redeemed from June 22 to Aug. 23, 2026.

Chili’s

Celebrate any occasion with lunch or dinner at Chili’s. Buy a $50 gift card and get a $10 eBonus Card — from April 23 to May 9, 2026. The bonus is only available online. The bonus card is valid May 11 to June 15, 2026. 

Denny’s

Celebrate any occasion with the family at Denny’s. Buy a $25 gift card and get a $5 Bonus Coupon — from April 13 to June 21, 2026. See Bonus Coupon for redemption details. 

Dunkin’

Make spring every sweeter at Dunkin’! Buy a $25 e-gift card and receive a $5 eBonus Card — from April 27 to June 21, 2026. The bonus card is valid June 22 to July 31, 2026. Limit 4 per person. 

Einstein Bros. Bagels

Need bargain bagels for a celebratory brunch? All Einstein Bros. Bagels gift cards purchased online are 20% off — from April 22 to June 23, 2026. 

Flower Child

Fogo de Chão

Fogo de Chão can make springtime sizzle. For every $200 in gift cards purchased online, get a $50 Bonus eCard — from April 21 to June 21, 2026. The bonus card is valid June 22 to Aug. 31, 2026. 

Grand Lux Café

Celebrate any spring holiday with a luxurious lunch or dinner at Grand Luxe Café. From April 27 to May 10, 2026, purchase a $50 gift card online and receive a $10 Bonus eCard. The bonus card is valid May 11 to June 3, 2026.

IHOP

Hop over to IHOP for breakfast for any holiday or celebration. From March 30 to June 28, 2026, buy a $25 gift card and get a $5 Bonus Card. The bonus card expires Aug. 28, 2026. 

McAlister’s Deli

Slather on the savings at McAlister’s Deli. Receive a $5 Reward Card with the purchase of a $25 gift card — from April 28 to June 21, 2026. The reward is valid April 28 to July 31, 2026. 

Mimi’s Cafe

Enjoy a relaxing celebratory brunch at Mimi’s Cafe! Get a $10 Bonus Card with the purchase of a $50 gift card — through May 9, 2026. The bonus is valid May 11 to Aug. 29, 2026. 

Outback Steakhouse

Take a spring break “down under”. Buy a $50 gift card at Outback Steakhouse and enjoy a $10 Bonus Card — from April 20 to June 21, 2026. The bonus card is valid June 22 to Aug. 23, 2026. 

Panda Express

Get bowled over at Panda Express! Enjoy an $8 Bonus Card with the purchase of $30 or more gift card online. The bonus is available April 20 to June 21, 2026. The bonus valid from April 20 to July 31, 2026. 

Panera Bread

Enjoy a sandwich and soup at Panera Bread! Get a $10 Bonus Card with the purchase of a $50 gift card — from April 8 to May 31, 2026. The bonus is valid June 1 to 30, 2026. 

P.F. Chang’s

Enjoy lots of delicious Chinese dishes at P.F. Chang’s! Get a $10 Bonus Card with the purchase of a $50 gift card — from see P.F. Chang’s for promo dates. The bonus is valid June 24 to Sept. 1, 2026. 

QDOBA

Enjoy a frugal fiesta at QDOBA! Buy a $50 gift card and get $10 Bonus Card. The bonus offer is available April 1 to June 30, 2026. The bonus is valid July 1 to Aug. 31, 2026.

RA Sushi

Time for a sushi party! Buy a $60 gift card at RA Sushi and enjoy $10 Promotional Card. For a bigger bonus, buy a $200 gift card and receive a $60 Promotional Card. The bonus offer is available April 1 to May 10, 2026. The promo cards are valid May 11 to Aug. 3, 2026. 

Red Robin

Get a juicy deal at Red Robin. Buy a $50 gift card and get $10 Bonus Buck Reward. The bonus offer is available April 20 to June 21, 2026. The bonus is valid June 22 to Aug. 9, 2026.

Subway

Stop at Subway for a great deal! Get a FREE 6-inch sub with the purchase of a $25 gift card — from April 30 to June 30, 2026. The bonus is valid through July 31, 2026.

The Cheesecake Factory

Celebrate any occasion with an extravagant lunch or dinner at The Cheesecake Factory. From April 27 to May 10, 2026, purchase a $50 gift card online and receive a $10 Bonus eCard. The bonus card is valid May 11 to June 3, 2026. 

Village Inn

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Village Inn. From April 21 to June 21, 2026, buy a $25 gift card and receive a $5 eBonus Card. The bonus card is valid May 5 to July 26, 2026 — excluding Mother’s Day, May 10 and Father’s Day, June 21. 

Photo credit: Deposit Photos

Mother’s Day Retail Specials 2026

You can celebrate Mom with more than just food. There are also a few Mother’s Day retail specials or review our list of frugal gift ideas.

Groupon

Save big on gifts and flowers for Mom through Groupon. The money-saving site is offering a wide variety of deals on spa treatments, jewelry, flowers, gift baskets and more. 

Massage Envy

Give Mom the gift of relaxation at Massage Envy!

Buy Mom a $125 gift card and enjoy a $25 Promo Card or a $150 gift card for a $40 Promo Card.

The offer is available from April 20 to May 10, 2026.

Office Depot / OfficeMax

Help Mom clean out her files!

Through May 23, 2026, Office Depot / OfficeMax is offering FREE in-store paper shredding for up to five pounds of documents. Get the required coupon here. 

Whole Foods Market

Spoil Mom (or even treat yourself) and stock up on lots of beauty and bath products, as well as candles.

Whole Foods Market is offering 33% off all body care and candles — from April 29 to May 12, 2026. The grocery store bans more than 240 ingredients from all body care and beauty products on its shelves.

The sale is only available to Amazon Prime members. 

More Mother’s Day articles at Living on the Cheap:

• What to give Mom when you are all grown up
• Card-making tips in time for Mother’s Day
• Easy Mother’s Day crafts for kids
• Mother’s Day gift ideas she’ll love
• Free or cheap Mother’s Day gift ideas
• Great gifts for a first Mother’s Day
• DIY spa day gift basket
• Thoughtful Mother’s Day gifts on a budget

   

It’s never wise to simply throw away important financial documents in the trash, especially because of the potential for identity theft or a data breach.

Anyone who’s experienced any financial fraud knows it’s frightening to know someone is using your personal information for gain and potentially damaging your credit score. In addition, getting it resolved is extremely stressful and time-consuming.

Photo: Office Depot / Office Max

That’s why it’s important to take precaution with any documents containing personal information. And shredding those documents is one of the best ways to ensure no one has access to your name, address, phone number, birthdate or social security number. 

Office Depot and Office Max are making tax season less taxing by offering a helpful and much-needed service at no cost.

Through May 23, 2026, consumers can benefit from FREE in-store paper shredding at a participating Office Depot or OfficeMax location — up to five pounds! All you have to pay is the tax. 

The complimentary service requires this coupon. Simply present the coupon in-store to the cashier. 

Limit one coupon per household or business. 

For locations nationwide, click here.

   

Shake Shack is shaking up National Burger Month with a juicy giveaway every week in May for burger lovers.

The chain’s burgers are made with a custom 100% Angus beef blend, never frozen, no hormones or antibiotics ever, humanely raised and grazed in the U.S.

Photo: Shake Shack

From May 1 to 31, 2026, Shake Shack is offering a different single burger every week for FREE with a $10 minimum purchase at participating locations. The offer excludes all paid add-ons, such as avocado or bacon.

Here’s what burger is available each week:

May 1 to 10 – ShackBurger

May 11 to 17 – SmokeShack 

May 18 to 24 – Bacon Cheeseburger

May 25 to 31  – ShackBurger

The offer is only valid for purchases placed at a kiosk in-restaurant or for delivery or pick-up via the Shake Shack app or at shakeshack.com. Use promo code FREEBURGER at checkout. (Note: Promo code must be entered in ALL CAPS.)

Limit one offer per order — with a maximum savings equal to the price of each week’s promotional burger (from $8.29 to $10.49). If you have a large order, consider breaking it up into separate transactions for more FREE burgers.

You must add at least $10 worth of food and/or drinks to your order, excluding the cost of the complimentary burger. (Gift card purchases are also excluded.)

Review the terms of the offer here. 

Shake Shack has more than 350 location in 33 states.

Hungry for more food deals?

   

Pet parents have reason to wag their tails at Target for National Pet Month! Every family knows that our canines and felines are more than just pets…they’re part of the family.

And, as part of the family, they get spoiled to all of the things a child would get — including birthday parties, toys and treats. And the popular retailer is sharing the love of pets with a giveaway for one day.

Image: Target

On May 16, 2026, Target is celebrating National Pet Month with a FREE Dog or Cat Giveaway Kit at participating locations — from noon to 4 p.m.

Limit one bag per customer, while supplies last.

The giveaway is available at most locations. However, you may want to double-check participation before making plans.

   

Spring brings warm sunshine, cool breezes and lots of reasons to celebrate — including Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, graduations, weddings and more. 

And, no matter the occasion, one of the most appreciated presents is a gift card. It’s quick and easy for the giver and lets the recipient enjoy exactly what they want from a favorite restaurant or retailer. 

Besides the winter holidays, there is only one other time of the year that gift card bonuses abound — springtime! It’s the perfect opportunity to stretch your budget by taking advantage of bonus cards with the purchase of a gift card. 

Most bonus offers are only available online. However, others may be available both online and in-restaurant. Please double-check before purchasing. 

In addition, many (if not, all) bonus cards or coupons have restrictions and/or requirements upon redeeming. Always review the fine print before buying. 

And, as always with gift card bonuses, now’s the time to treat yourself by buying gift cards for those restaurants your family frequents often. Stretch your dining dollars by taking advantage of the bonus bucks!

Here’s what’s available for Spring 2026:

Alamo Drafthouse Cinema

Let’s go to the movies! Save 20% on gift cards valued at $75 or more at Alamo Drafthouse Cinema — from April 27 to May 10, 2026. Consider picking up a few discounted gift cards for summer fun! 

Anthony’s Coal-Fired Pizza & Wings

Slice into a bonus at Anthony’s Coal-Fired Pizza & Wings. Buy a $100 gift cards and receive a $25  Bonus Card — from April 27 to June 21, 2026. The bonus can be redeemed from June 22 to Aug. 30, 2026. 

Applebee’s

Buy a $50 gift card and Applebee’s will throw in a $10 Bonus Card — from April 13 to June 28, 2026. The bonus card expires Aug. 2, 2026. 

BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse

Raise your glass at BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse! Buy a $50 gift card and enjoy a $10 Bonus Card — from April 27 to June 21, 2026. The bonus is valid June 22 to July 13, 2026. 

Bonefish Grill

Buy a $50 gift card at Bonefish Grill and get a $10 Bonus Card — from April 20 to June 21, 2026. The bonus card can be redeemed from June 22 to Aug. 23, 2026. 

Carrabba’s Italian Grill

Gather the family and enjoy a meal at Carrabba’s Italian Grill. For every $50 spent in gift cards, receive a $10 Bonus Card — from April 20 to June 21, 2026. The bonus card can be redeemed from June 22 to Aug. 23, 2026.

Chili’s

Celebrate any occasion with lunch or dinner at Chili’s. Buy a $50 gift card and get a $10 eBonus Card — from April 23 to May 9, 2026. The bonus is only available online. The bonus card is valid May 11 to June 15, 2026. 

Denny’s

Celebrate any occasion with the family at Denny’s. Buy a $25 gift card and get a $5 Bonus Coupon — from April 13 to June 21, 2026. See Bonus Coupon for redemption details. 

Dunkin’

Make spring every sweeter at Dunkin’! Buy a $25 e-gift card and receive a $5 eBonus Card — from April 27 to June 21, 2026. The bonus card is valid June 22 to July 31, 2026. Limit 4 per person. 

Einstein Bros. Bagels

Need bargain bagels for a celebratory brunch? All Einstein Bros. Bagels gift cards purchased online are 20% off — from April 22 to June 23, 2026. 

Flower Child

Fogo de Chão

Fogo de Chão can make springtime sizzle. For every $200 in gift cards purchased online, get a $50 Bonus eCard — from April 21 to June 21, 2026. The bonus card is valid June 22 to Aug. 31, 2026. 

Grand Lux Café

Celebrate any spring holiday with a luxurious lunch or dinner at Grand Luxe Café. From April 27 to May 10, 2026, purchase a $50 gift card online and receive a $10 Bonus eCard. The bonus card is valid May 11 to June 3, 2026.

IHOP

Hop over to IHOP for breakfast for any holiday or celebration. From March 30 to June 28, 2026, buy a $25 gift card and get a $5 Bonus Card. The bonus card expires Aug. 28, 2026. 

McAlister’s Deli

Slather on the savings at McAlister’s Deli. Receive a $5 Reward Card with the purchase of a $25 gift card — from April 28 to June 21, 2026. The reward is valid April 28 to July 31, 2026. 

Mimi’s Cafe

Enjoy a relaxing celebratory brunch at Mimi’s Cafe! Get a $10 Bonus Card with the purchase of a $50 gift card — through May 9, 2026. The bonus is valid May 11 to Aug. 29, 2026. 

Outback Steakhouse

Take a spring break “down under”. Buy a $50 gift card at Outback Steakhouse and enjoy a $10 Bonus Card — from April 20 to June 21, 2026. The bonus card is valid June 22 to Aug. 23, 2026. 

Panda Express

Get bowled over at Panda Express! Enjoy an $8 Bonus Card with the purchase of $30 or more gift card online. The bonus is available April 20 to June 21, 2026. The bonus valid from April 20 to July 31, 2026. 

Panera Bread

Enjoy a sandwich and soup at Panera Bread! Get a $10 Bonus Card with the purchase of a $50 gift card — from April 8 to May 31, 2026. The bonus is valid June 1 to 30, 2026. 

P.F. Chang’s

Enjoy lots of delicious Chinese dishes at P.F. Chang’s! Get a $10 Bonus Card with the purchase of a $50 gift card — from see P.F. Chang’s for promo dates. The bonus is valid June 24 to Sept. 1, 2026. 

QDOBA

Enjoy a frugal fiesta at QDOBA! Buy a $50 gift card and get $10 Bonus Card. The bonus offer is available April 1 to June 30, 2026. The bonus is valid July 1 to Aug. 31, 2026.

RA Sushi

Time for a sushi party! Buy a $60 gift card at RA Sushi and enjoy $10 Promotional Card. For a bigger bonus, buy a $200 gift card and receive a $60 Promotional Card. The bonus offer is available April 1 to May 10, 2026. The promo cards are valid May 11 to Aug. 3, 2026. 

Red Robin

Get a juicy deal at Red Robin. Buy a $50 gift card and get $10 Bonus Buck Reward. The bonus offer is available April 20 to June 21, 2026. The bonus is valid June 22 to Aug. 9, 2026.

Subway

Stop at Subway for a great deal! Get a FREE 6-inch sub with the purchase of a $25 gift card — from April 30 to June 30, 2026. The bonus is valid through July 31, 2026.

The Cheesecake Factory

Celebrate any occasion with an extravagant lunch or dinner at The Cheesecake Factory. From April 27 to May 10, 2026, purchase a $50 gift card online and receive a $10 Bonus eCard. The bonus card is valid May 11 to June 3, 2026. 

Village Inn

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Village Inn. From April 21 to June 21, 2026, buy a $25 gift card and receive a $5 eBonus Card. The bonus card is valid May 5 to July 26, 2026 — excluding Mother’s Day, May 10 and Father’s Day, June 21.