Thousands celebrate Lilac Sunday’s 100th

BOSTON. When they first came on the first Mother’s Day in 1908, the lilacs likely smelled great and probably looked just as nice. Little has changed in 100 years.

A rite of spring as notable as anything in these parts, Lilac Sunday at the Arnold Arboretum turned 100 yesterday, drawing thousands to gawk at the purples and pinks.

As is always the case, family was also at the forefront.

Next to her 15-month-old great-granddaughter and 38-year-old granddaughter, Kathleen Simmons, 91, sat on a bench adjacent a flank of lilacs.

“It’s just magnificent,” Simmons said. “We live in a beautiful town, and it’s a beautiful day.”

Simmons has attended the festival off and on over the years. Steps away was a true veteran, Luz Doyle, who has visited on Mother’s Day nearly every year since moving from the Philippines in 1972.

“I’ve always loved the lilacs and the fragrances, but not only that, it brings the family together,” Doyle said, her future daughter-in-law at her side.

Although attendance is hard to count, Arboretum officials cite that roughly 43,000 attended in 1941 as a “noteworthy peak.”

Each likely has a different reason for going. Simmons keeps it simple.

“This keeps me happy,” she said. "It's very meaningful."