The Mothering Sunday or UK Mother’s Day
The History and Evolution of Mother’s Day in the UK and France
Mothering Sunday in the UK: Religious Roots
The British tradition of Mothering Sunday dates back to the Middle Ages and originally had religious rather than maternal significance. Celebrated on the fourth Sunday of Lent, it was a time when people were encouraged to return to their “mother church”—the main church or cathedral in their region, or the one where they had been baptized—for a special service and spiritual reflection.
By the 17th century, the day had also become an occasion for servants and apprentices, who often lived far from home, to return to their families. This homecoming gradually evolved into a day to honour mothers, with children bringing gifts such as flowers or a Simnel cake, a traditional fruit cake associated with Lent.
From Tradition to Modern Celebration
The transformation into the modern concept of Mother’s Day did not occur until the 20th century, largely under the influence of the United States. In 1914, American activist Anna Jarvis successfully campaigned for a national day to honour mothers. President Woodrow Wilson officially declared the second Sunday of May as Mother’s Day.
The American model of Mother's Day gained popularity abroad, especially during and after World War II, when American soldiers stationed in the UK helped promote the tradition. As a result, Mothering Sunday in Britain gradually adopted the emotional and celebratory tone of the American holiday, while keeping its original date during Lent.
Mothering Sunday vs. Mother’s Day
Although the UK continues to observe Mothering Sunday on the fourth Sunday of Lent, its meaning today closely aligns with modern Mother’s Day. The religious aspect has become less central, and the day now focuses on celebrating mothers with cards, gifts, and family gatherings, much like in other countries. The key distinction is the timing, as most other nations celebrate Mother’s Day in May.
Mother’s Day in France: Republican and Familial Roots
Historical Background
In France, the story of Mother’s Day follows a different path. While local celebrations existed as early as the late 19th century, the first national observance occurred in 1920. It was created to honour mothers who had lost sons during World War I, emphasizing the sacrificial role of women in the postwar family context.
The holiday became official in 1950, when the French government issued a decree under the Fourth Republic, establishing Fête des Mères as a national celebration to be held on the last Sunday of May—or the first Sunday of June if Pentecost coincides with that date (Decree of May 24, 1950, Journal Officiel de la République Française).
Modern Traditions in France
Mother’s Day in France is widely celebrated and deeply rooted in family life. Key customs include:
Gifts and flowers: Children typically give flowers, especially carnations, considered the traditional bloom of the day. Other common gifts include chocolates, jewelry, or handwritten cards.
Family meals: It is customary to enjoy a home-cooked meal or go out to a restaurant. Many restaurants offer special menus for the occasion.
School activities: French schools play a central role in the tradition, with children preparing handmade cards, drawings, and poems as heartfelt gifts.
Tributes and speeches: In some families, the day may include a speech or moment of appreciation where mothers are honoured with words of love and gratitude.
Between Tradition and Commercialization
While the commercial aspect of the holiday has grown significantly in recent decades, Fête des Mères remains a meaningful and emotional family tradition. Simple gestures like flowers, thoughtful gifts, and time spent together continue to carry deep significance.
Fine Wines and a Delicious Meal to Celebrate!
Grand Cru and Etiquette offers a family-style menu with a single bottle of wine to accompany the entire meal on this beautiful occasion. Don’t forget to create a warm and family-friendly atmosphere. You could decorate the table with fresh flowers, candles, and elegant placemats.
What makes this Champagne pair so well with this menu?
The Starter: The minerality and fine bubbles of the champagne enhance the scallops' delicate sweetness while balancing the acidity of the citrus.
The Main Course: The fruity notes and structure of the champagne pair beautifully with the richness of the duck. The sauce, both simple and refined, enhances the duck’s depth of flavor without overpowering it. The honey highlights the champagne’s red fruit aromas, while the sherry vinegar brings a refreshing acidity that echoes its effervescence and minerality.
The Dessert: The sweetness of the almonds and the tartness of the red berries mirror the champagne’s fruit-forward notes while maintaining a refined and delicate balance. The toasted almond adds a subtle nuttiness that complements the champagne’s brioche nuances, while the red berry acidity creates a beautiful harmony with its vinous character.
This refined menu highlights the complexity of Champagne AOC, R. Pouillon et Fils, Premier Cru Rosé, playing on a balance of freshness, acidity, and roundness.
❝ Dear Wine Enthusiasts🌸,
Mother’s Day in the UK and Ireland falls on Sunday, March 30, 2025, and what better way to honor the special women in our lives than with fine French wines and a delicious homemade dessert?
Whether you’re planning a family gathering or an intimate afternoon tea, we have the perfect wine pairings for the occasion!❞
Grand Cru and Etiquette
Sources:
Katharine Antolini, Memorializing Motherhood: Anna Jarvis and the Struggle for Control of Mother's Day, WVU Press, 2014.
Stephen Baskerville, "Mother’s Day and the Family in Britain", Journal of Social History, Vol. 37, No. 1, 2003.
Yvonne Knibiehler, La Révolution maternelle, Perrin, 2007.
Décret du 24 mai 1950 instituant la fête des mères – Journal Officiel de la République Française.
