When is it?

When is Fête des Mères 2023 in France?

Mother's Day celebrated on the last Sunday in May unless it coincides with Pentecost

Local date

Sunday, June 4, 2023

Time zone · Europe/Paris

How it's calculated

Last Sunday in May (or first Sunday in June if Pentecost Sunday falls on last Sunday)

Updated through 2023

History & Origins

The Story Behind Fête des Mères

Mother's Day originated in the United States when Anna Jarvis held a memorial for her mother in 1908. She then campaigned for a national holiday, which was officially established in 1914 by President Woodrow Wilson. The tradition spread globally, though many countries celebrate on different dates based on their own cultural traditions.

Traditions & Celebrations

How Fête des Mères is Celebrated

Common traditions include giving cards, flowers (especially carnations), and gifts to mothers. Many families prepare special meals or take mothers out to restaurants. Children often make handmade cards at school, and it's one of the busiest days for restaurants and florists.

Date Calculation

How the Fête des Mères Date is Determined

In the US, Canada, and Australia, Mother's Day falls on the second Sunday of May. The UK celebrates on Mothering Sunday, which is the fourth Sunday of Lent (usually in March). Other countries have their own fixed or variable dates.

Fête des Mères worldwide

Compare 2023 dates across countries