How to Celebrate Mother’s Day, the French way

How to Celebrate Mother’s Day, the French way: A Joyeux Fête des Mères!

When is Mother’s Day or La Fête des Mères in France?

Unlike the UK, where Mother’s Day is tied to the Christian calendar and falls on Mothering Sunday, the French celebrate La Fête des Mères on the last Sunday of May. However, if that date coincides with Pentecost, it’s shifted to the first Sunday of June.

French Mother’s Day Traditions

Breakfast in Bed French mothers often start their day with a lovingly prepared breakfast in bed. Think freshly baked croissants, pain au chocolat, and a steaming cup of coffee. Some families may even include a glass of Crémant to toast the occasion.
Handmade Gifts and Poems For younger children, Mother’s Day in France is all about the cadeaux faits maison (homemade gifts). Schools often encourage children to write heartfelt poems called "poèmes pour maman", guaranteed to melt hearts.
Flowers, Glorious Flowers You can’t celebrate La Fête des Mères without a beautiful bouquet. Popular choices include roses, lilies, and peonies. French florists do a roaring trade in personalised floral arrangements, often tied with a delicate ribbon and accompanied by a thoughtful card.
Family Lunch Much like any good French celebration, food takes centre stage. Families typically gather for a long, leisurely lunch featuring coq au vin, ratatouille, or a decadent gratin dauphinois. And for dessert? A luscious tarte aux fraises or a delicate éclair is often served, accompanied by a glass of champagne.

French Vocabulary for Mother’s Day

La Fête des Mères - Mother’s Day
Maman - Mum
Je t’aime, Maman - I love you, Mum
Un cadeau - A gift
Un bouquet de fleurs - A bouquet of flowers
Bon appétit ! - Enjoy your meal!
Bonne Fête des Mères ! - Happy Mother’s Day!

A Light-Hearted French Spirit

The French tend to keep things elegant yet understated. There’s no over-the-top commercial frenzy. Instead, it’s all about simple pleasures: quality time, delicious food, and heartfelt gestures.

So, if you fancy adding a little French flair to your Mother’s Day, why not try serving up a fresh pâtisserie alongside a heartfelt note? As the French say, "C’est la pensée qui compte" – it’s the thought that counts.

Bonne Fête des Mères à toutes les mamans !