Father’s Day In France

Father's Day in France is celebrated on the third Sunday in June and is called Fête des Pères. This day of celebration honours the role fathers and father figures play in raising children. What a fabulous photo above of a father and his children enjoying a day out 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!

The History of Father’s Day in France

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 of 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 Father's Day in France 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.

A 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 often celebrate twice a year, once when in France on the day, and then again in Australia.  The location however is not important, but rather being together.

What do you do on Father's Day?

Pin Father's Day in France to read again, or share with friends

Related Posts