Grandmothers' Day: Origins, Dates, and Traditions
Whether she’s a doting grandma or a rock-’n’-roll grandma, every spring we celebrate these maternal figures who surround us with wisdom mixed with tenderness. The origins of the holiday, celebration dates in France, gift ideas… The Sessile.fr editorial team reveals the secrets of Grandmothers’ Day!
Grandmothers' Day: Unusual Origins
Unlike Mother's Day, which has its roots in centuries-old traditions, Grandmothers' Day is a relatively recent celebration.
Interestingly, this holiday was established in 1987 tomark the 20th anniversary of the Grand’Mère coffee brand! It was a marketing campaign that quickly took root in French culture, turning this commercial buzz into a true national holiday dedicated to grandmothers.
Celebration and Popularity of Grandmothers' Day in France
In France, Grandmothers' Day has become a well-established tradition since its inception in 1987. Every year, many people take advantage of this special day to show their affection for their grandmothers.
Sunday meals and little gestures of kindness set the tone for this day dedicated to intergenerationallove!
I find my bouquet of flowers
Dates for Grandmothers' Day in France
Grandmothers' Day is celebrated every year on the first Sunday in March. This date, which has been set since the holiday's inception, clearly distinguishes this celebration from other family holidays such as Mother's Day and Father's Day.
Here are the specific dates for this holiday through 2030:
- Grandmothers' Day 2025: March 2
- Grandmothers' Day 2026: March 1
- Grandmothers' Day 2027: March 7
- Grandmothers' Day 2028: March 5
- Grandmothers' Day 2029: March 4
- Grandmothers' Day 2030: March 3
Grandmothers' Day Around the World: Foreign Customs and Traditions
While Grandmothers’ Day as we know it in France is unique, other countries also have days dedicated to grandmothers or, more broadly, to seniors. Let’s take a look at some of their local traditions:
United States
In the United States, Grandparents Day is celebrated on the first Sunday afterLabor Day, in September. Established in 1978, this holiday highlights the importance of grandparents in the lives of American families. It features fun, intergenerational activities such as picnics, school events, and community projects.
Italy
In Italy, the Festa dei Nonni (Grandparents’ Day) is celebrated on October 2, which coincides with the Feast of the Guardian Angels in the Catholic calendar. This day is dedicated to honoring the role of grandparents as protectors and guides at the heart of families. Italians celebrate this holiday by giving gifts and organizing memorable family gatherings. In schools, children make cards and handmade gifts for their grandparents. Parks and public gardens traditionally open their doors to host celebrations and activities for families coming together.
Poland
In Poland, Grandmothers' Day (Dzień Babci) is celebrated on January 21, followed closely by Grandfathers' Day (Dzień Dziadka) on January 22!
These two holidays are widely celebrated throughout the country. Grandchildren traditionally give fresh flowers, handmade gifts, and cards with messages to their elders.
Schools and daycare centers organize performances, songs, and dances to proudly celebrate this intergenerational love.
Japan
In Japan, Respect for the Aged Day (敬老の日, Keirō no Hi) is a national holiday dedicated to the elderly, celebrated on the third Monday in September.
Families take this opportunity to visit their parents and grandparents, give them gifts, and share a nice meal together.
Ceremonies and community events are also held to show respect and gratitude for the elders.
How can we celebrate Grandmothers' Day?
Love notes, bouquets of fresh flowers, cute drawings, invitations to dinner… Everyone has their own way of telling their grandmother how much she means to us!
Gift Ideas for Grandmothers' Day
At Sessile, we’ll help you find some wonderful ideas for celebrating Grandmothers’ Day with warmth and sincerity:
Sessile's Thoughts on Grandmothers' Day
On the first Sunday in March, let’s not forget to pay tribute to the women who have always surrounded us with warmth. Daffodils, gerberas, anemones, ranunculus…The artisan florists in the Sessile.fr network are putting all their expertise to work to fill our grandmothers’ hearts with joy!
Whether it’s a sunny, colorful, or pastel bouquet, trust our team ofpassionate artisans to create a floral arrangement that perfectly reflects your beloved grandma’s personality.
Who are we?
Sessile champions the independence of artisan florists online. Founded in 2019 by six friends, Sessile brings together 500 florists committed to transforming the industry and enables flower delivery throughout France, Belgium, and Luxembourg. By breaking away from the traditional online catalog model, the network highlights each florist’s expertise and helps keep the art of floristry alive. Florists can pursue their passion and create more creative bouquets because they have greater freedom to offer seasonal flowers and, whenever possible, locally sourced flowers.
