Everything You Need to Know About Father's Day
Every year, Father’s Day is an opportunity to say thank you to those who have passed down to us much more than just a name: values, memories, and sometimes even a questionable sense of humor. But where does this tradition come from? What can we give to this often-unassuming yet essential figure? And above all, how can we celebrate without falling into clichés or overconsumption? The Sessile.fr editorial team has put together this little guide dedicated to Father’s Day!
What is the origin of Father's Day?
Few people know the history of this celebration. Yet Father’s Day did not arise from a marketing ploy: its origins lie primarily in religious and social traditions, long before it found its place in our modern calendars. As early as the Middle Ages, certain father figures began to be honored—notably through the quiet but significant veneration of Saint Joseph. Over the centuries, the holiday has evolved, taken on new forms, and crossed borders.
The First References in the Middle Ages: The Figure of Saint Joseph
Toward the end of the Middle Ages, fathers began tentatively to emerge from the shadows, inspired by a discreet yet symbolic figure: Saint Joseph, the foster father of Jesus. Although less popular than the Virgin Mary, Joseph nonetheless remains a model of righteousness, hard work, and protection. It was around March 19—his feast day in the Catholic calendar—that the first forms of recognition of fatherhood began to emerge, particularly in countries deeply steeped in Christian tradition, such as Spain, Portugal, and Italy.
From Religious Worship to Social Recognition of Fathers
It was only over the course of centuries that the celebration moved beyond a religious context. The father gradually became a social figure, recognized not only for his authority but also for his emotional role within the family. In the United States, the holiday took on a modern form in the early 20th century, driven by citizens and business owners who wanted to ensure equal recognition for both mothers and fathers.
When is Father's Day celebrated around the world?
The date varies by country: in Spain, Italy, and Portugal, it’s always March 19. In the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada, it’s the third Sunday in June. And in France? We’ll get to that…
I find my bouquet of flowers
Why do we celebrate Father's Day?
We often think of Mother’s Day, but not so much Father’s Day. Yet fathers, too, deserve a moment of their own. It’s time to celebrate their presence, their sense of humor, their patience… and their unexpected acts of help.
An opportunity to express one's love for one's parents
No matter how old you are, there’s always something touching about telling your father thatyou love him. And it doesn’t necessarily have to be a big speech: a simple gesture, a flower, or a little note can make all the difference.
The Role of Father Figures Today
The role of the father has changed significantly. Whether biological father, adoptive father, stepfather, or guardian, fatherhood takes many forms today. Celebrating Father’s Day also means recognizing all these nuances.
Is this holiday still underrated?
Less institutionalized than Mother’s Day, Father’s Day sometimes gets overlooked. Yet it’s a wonderful opportunity to celebrate these relationships, which are often more understated but just as strong.
When is Father's Day in France?
It’s hard to keep track without a quick reminder: the date changes every year. In France, it’s always a Sunday in June, but which one? We’ll give you the information clearly and simply, so you don’t end up ordering a bouquet at the last minute (oops).
In 2025, Father's Day will be on Sunday, June 15. As is always the case in France, it falls on the third Sunday in June (unless it coincides with Pentecost, which can cause a slight shift in the date).
Here are the specific dates for this holiday through 2030:
- Father's Day 2026: June 21
- Father's Day 2027: June 20
- Father's Day 2028: June 18
- Father's Day 2029: June 17
- Father's Day 2030: June 16
What should I get for Father's Day?
Every year, the same question comes up: What on earth should we get him? A gift that suits him, that’s useful, attractive, personalized, and not too cliché… In short, the bar is set high. Fortunately, we have a few simple, effective, and common-sense ideas.
Timeless classics that are always a hit
A shirt, a book, a bottle of good wine, a watch, a high-tech screwdriver… Yes, these are classics, but they work. Because a good gift is also one that’s well-chosen—and doesn’t have to be original at all costs.
Personalized gifts to mark the occasion
An engraved item, a handwritten note, a bouquet in her favorite colors (yes, it really does exist!): personalized gifts hit the mark, especially when they’re chosen with sincerity.
Why give flowers to a man?
Because flowers aren't gendered. Because a bouquet is beautiful, vibrant, and always lifts your spirits. And because a father deserves a floral gift too—especially if it's chosen from the heart!
How can we make Father's Day more sustainable?
Want to give a gift without overconsuming? It’s possible. Father’s Day can certainly go hand in hand with mindfulness and enjoyment. All it takes is a slight shift in how we view this day and a focus on gestures that matter—to him… and to the planet.
Focus on long-lasting gestures of thoughtfulness
Instead of giving a gadget that will end up in a drawer, you can opt for an experience (a workshop, a show, a walk), a handcrafted item, or simply time spent together. Less is more.
Give Local Flowers with Sessile
At Sessile.fr, we celebrate the work of local florists and growers committed to providing flowers that are more local, more sustainable, and not transported by cargo plane. Giving a bouquet becomes a gesture that is as beautiful as it is meaningful.
Prioritize emotion over consumption
A sincere gesture, a thoughtful surprise, a moment of togetherness: Father’s Day isn’t about the race to buy the perfect gift. It’s about wanting to say thank you, in your own way.
Sessile.fr's take on Father's Day
At Sessile, we love flowers… but most of all, we love the stories they tell. For Father’s Day, they can convey so much: admiration, tenderness, gratitude. And when they’ve been handpicked and arranged by a local artisan florist, they also say something about you.
And maybe that's the best gift of all.
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.
