On Sunday, March 2, 2025, France will celebrate Grandmothers' Day, an occasion dedicated to honoring grandmothers across the nation. The holiday, which falls on the first Sunday of March, was established not from any historical or religious significance but as part of a marketing strategy by the coffee brand Café Grand’Mère. According to Nadine Cretin, a historian specializing in religious anthropology, "It’s a holiday created by the brand to boost sales, similar to how Father's Day was imagined by another Breton company to sell more lighters."
The story of Grandmothers' Day dates back to 1954 when René and Lucette Monnier, who ran a fine grocery store in Roubaix, France, decided to create their own coffee brand after noticing the demand for Belgian coffee known as "Grootmoeder". Their coffee, Café Grand’Mère, quickly became popular and was sold nationwide, leading to its acquisition by Kraft Jacob Suchard in the 1980s.
It was during this boom, in 1987, when the brand launched Grandmothers' Day as part of their marketing push. Holly Leng, the senior product manager at the brand, explained, "It was our opportunity to highlight the status of grandmothers and instill values of kindness and generosity." What began as a commercial venture has since turned this unofficial holiday, unlike the officially recognized Mother's Day, which is set by the family department of France, becoming widely embraced across the nation. Today, the French population consists of about 8.9 million grandmothers, according to the last census conducted by INSEE.
While the celebration is unique to France, similar festivities occur globally. For example, Grandparents' Day is celebrated on the first Sunday of September in Canada and the U.S., on October 2nd in Italy, and July 26th in Brazil. Poland marks Grandmothers' Day on January 21, showcasing the diverse ways grandparents are honored worldwide. Interestingly, Grandfathers' Day is celebrated on the first Sunday of October in France, with this year’s event scheduled for October 5, 2025.
Many families choose this day to gather around special meals, creating opportunities to share not only food but also cherished moments together. This year, there are numerous delightful recipes to craft for Grandma, commemorated through culinary traditions. A selection of three delectable dishes can provide just the right touch for gatherings. These include healthy, light meal options combining wellness and enjoyment, emphasizing the importance of caring for our loved ones.
One recipe presents the idea of blending seasonal vegetables with nutritious proteins, offering alternatives like shrimp, marinated tofu, or chickpeas for vegetarian options. Another suggested dish reminds families to explore the sweetness of fruits with no heavy desserts, ensuring health and joy are on the table. Family members are encouraged to show their love not just through food but with flowers too, which florists assert become fast-selling items for Grandmothers' Day.
Amandine Caurette of the Pivoine flower shop in Bayeux noted, "Tulips and the well-known daffodils symbolize our attachment to grandmothers." Other florists agree—creating beautiful bouquets or picking bright blooms can convey sincere affection. For those unable to visit their grandmother, even a simple phone call can mean the world, reminding her of their thoughts and affection.
The day also encourages events to celebrate grandmothers explicitly, such as special gatherings or even photo sessions to spotlight their beauty at any age. This year, Fabrègues will host free photography sessions for senior women, helping combat the loneliness many feel during these holidays. The event, organized at the S21 studio by Caroline Gastaud, encourages participation by focusing on beauty and self-celebration, along with services like complimentary makeovers and manicures. “We wanted to showcase our elderly community differently and help them realize they hold significant value,” Gastaud shared.
The unique approach of this initiative has drawn participation from local beauticians and photographers eager to capture joyous moments and uplift the spirits of seniors. Photographer Sabrina Boirel expressed, "I believe it’s important to focus on the fun and valuable contributions older generations can offer, reminding them they are not alone.” Sessions aim for fun and uplifting photography, where the seniors will leave with delightful prints as mementos.
Personal stories also resonate deeply with many. Take the story of Nathalie, who became a grandmother at the young age of 39. Sharing her experiences highlights the nuances of intergenerational relationships and how labels like "grandmother" can evolve over time. Preferring to be called "Mayou", Nathalie maintains close ties with her grandson Ylan, showcasing modern family dynamics. "Ylan is one of the most beautiful things to happen to me," she recalls, reflecting on how beautifully her life has changed.
The beauty of Grandmothers' Day, illustrated through various narratives and delicious family meals, is about cherishing these relationships. Gifts may include flowers, carefully arranged meals, or even unforgettable moments shared through laughter and conversation. Loving gestures are sure to remind grandmothers how special they truly are to their families this March 2.