France's Fête des Mères Mother's Day Celebration

Think one Mother's Day a year simply isn't enough? Well, I agree in the interests of exploring other cultures and customs.  My grandmother came from France with her family when she was 8 years old.  I am always interested in what that culture has in store. 

All of us Moms can get a second dose of attention by celebrating France's Fête des Mères on May 25. A French tradition that was inaugurated by Napoleon and made official in 1950, this day honoring mothers dates back to Ancient Greece and is found in several countries.

In France, the tradition calls for a variety of honors for mother. She might receive a gift from her children, or the children might let mom (or mère) relax, and, as all things in France, it usually culminates in a large dinner in mom's honor. These dinners are usually a major family affair.

The main thrust is that this is a day when, much like in America, mothers do not work and their families cater to their whims. Mothers here also usually get cards and flowers. Sometimes children write short poems for mom.  I would love it if my son, Grant or my daughters wrote me a POEM!  Wow, what a treat that would be.

Why not offer your mom ~ or suggest to your family a chance for two Mother's Days in a year. She doesn't need to get another full-blown Mother's Day, but perhaps moms can get a nice meal or even a poem. Just in the interests of exploring other cultures and customs, of course.