7 Heartwarming Ways to Celebrate Mother’s Day in France as an Expat Partner
“C’est ta fête, maman !”
The phrase caught Ana off guard. It was her first Fête des Mères in France, and her five-year-old daughter had just handed her a handmade card, covered in glitter and hearts.
As an expat partner, Ana had experienced her fair share of culture shock but that morning in their Parisian apartment, something clicked. She felt, perhaps for the first time, at home.
What Makes Mother’s Day in France Unique?
Mother’s Day in France (La Fête des Mères) is a tender celebration rooted in both tradition and creativity. Unlike the U.S. or the U.K., where the date varies, in France it is celebrated on the last Sunday of May, unless it coincides with Pentecost, in which case it’s moved to the first Sunday of June.
A Brief History
The origins trace back to Napoleon and post-WWI efforts to honor mothers of large families. But it was officially declared a national celebration in 1950. Since then, it has grown into a cherished moment of connection.
How can you, as an expat in France, truly embrace Mother’s Day in a meaningful and memorable way?
Feeling Distant on a Family Day
Many expat mothers (or expat partners supporting mothers back home) feel a pang of disconnection on Mother’s Day. Your own family is far away. The customs are different. You may not receive that usual bouquet or brunch invitation.
But here’s the good news: Mother’s Day in France offers beautiful, new rituals and an opportunity to create your own.
Discovering Local Joys
Let’s go back to Ana. After that first card, she decided to lean into the French version of the celebration.
She joined a parent-child pottery workshop in the 11th arrondissement. She bought macarons at Pierre Hermé. And, thanks to a neighbor’s recommendation, she even reserved a table at a café poussette, where her toddler could play while she enjoyed a well-earned brunch.
Suddenly, it wasn’t just a day. It was her day, shaped by her new life in France.
7 Unforgettable Ways to Celebrate Mother’s Day in France
1. Make Something Together — The French Way
Join a creative atelier for families. In Paris, places like Les Inventeurs offer hands-on crafting sessions — a true win-win for bonding and souvenirs.
2. Picnic Like the Parisians
Grab a baguette, some cheese, and head to Parc Monceau or the Jardin du Luxembourg. It’s simple, beautiful, and kid-approved.
3. Visit a “Kid-Friendly” Café
Places like Le Poussette Café (yes, it exists!) mix good food, stroller space, and play areas. See our article on café poussette in Paris.
4. French Florals: Say It with Peonies
Florists all over France sell stunning spring bouquets. In 2023 alone, over 5 million flowers were sold for Mother’s Day in France (source). Think peonies, lilacs, or lily of the valley for a seasonal twist.
A bouquet of pink peonies – a timeless gift for Mother’s Day in France.
5. Write a Love Letter (En Français?)
Even a simple note saying “Merci pour tout, Maman” in French can be powerful. If you’re learning French, this is a great chance to practice emotional vocabulary!
6. Brunch With a View
Try brunch at Le Perchoir, overlooking the Paris rooftops, or for a family vibe, opt for Ground Control, which is full of food stalls and play corners.
7. Call Home — Creatively
If your own mother is far away, set up a virtual cooking session or a French-themed Zoom call. Sharing the day is what counts.
A New Kind of Celebration
By embracing Mother’s Day in France, Ana didn’t replace old memories — she enriched them. She created traditions that blended her roots with her new environment.
And isn’t that what expatriation is all about? Reinventing, reimagining, and reconnecting in unexpected ways.
You Deserve to Be Celebrated
Whether you’re a mother, a daughter, or simply someone far from home this is your moment to celebrate love, care, and presence.
In France, they say “Bonne fête, Maman!” But what they mean is:
“You matter. You’re loved. You’re not alone.”
Absolutely French – Who We Are – Companies Services
Absolutely French is the first French language school entirely dedicated to expat partners and expatriates.
Our mission:
To support dual careers in expat families by helping partners integrate quickly and confidently into French life.
Our method:
Fun, friendly, and innovative French courses that guarantee results — and help build a local network.
Looking for French classes tailored for expat partners?
Want to register your employee’s spouse for a high-quality program?
Let’s connect!
Email: contact@absolutely-french.eu
Phone: +33 (0)1 83 73 98 49
Address: 4, rue Faraday, 75017 Paris