Father’s Day In France is called Fête des Pères
Father’s Day in France is celebrated on the third Sunday in June. This day of celebration honours the role fathers, and father figures play in raising children and what a fabulous photo above of a father and his children enjoying a day out. I took this photo only weeks ago in the sculpture garden of Musée Rodin, Paris.
This dad had pencils and paper ready for his children to draw the sculptures and colour pictures of the artwork around the museum. What a champion dad!!
French History of Father’s Day
St Joseph’s Day is said to be the origin of the modern Father’s Day, celebrated on March 19, this day of Saint Joseph, the foster father of Jesus was more a religious celebration. In 1952 an offical degree was made to recognise fathers and Father’s Day is now celebrated on the third Sunday of June each year in France.
Father’s Day Gifts
On this day gifts are given to fathers, grandfathers and significant men in the family. Gifts often include chocolates, books and handmade items by children. Cards are often handmade and given with presents.
Day of Observance
In France Father’s Day is not an official public holiday but rather a day of observance.
For my family, we are five in number and have celebrated Father’s Day both in France and Australia. With the two countries celebrating this occasion on different days of the year, we’ve even celebrated twice in one year happening to be in both France and Australia on their respective Father’s Days. The location however is not important, but rather being together.
Father’s Day 2019 – Sunday, 16 June
Father’s Day 2020 – Sunday, 21 June
Father’s Day 2021 – Sunday, 19 June
Father’s Day 2022 – Sunday, 19 June
More French Traditions to Read About
Mother’s Day – How do the French celebrate this day?
Whit Sunday or Pentecost Sunday – What is this French tradition?
National Croissant Day – Croissant celebrations and an easy croissant recipe
Bastille Day – How do the French celebrate this, the greatest day on their National calendar?
La Chandeleur or Candlemas – Why are crêpes eaten on this day?
