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7 gift ideas for Grandparents' Day 2026
Grandparents' Day is approaching! A lovely occasion for grandchildren to celebrate their grandpa and remind him how much he means to them.
And to make him happy, you don't necessarily need to look very far. A personalized gift, a few photos gathered in an album, his favorite cake, or a day spent together can sometimes mean so much more than a grand present. So this year, let's forget the eternal pair of socks!
Here are 7 ideas for Grandparents' Day, to make, to give, or simply to share as a family.
When is Grandparents' Day in 2026?
In France, Grandparents' Day is celebrated on the first Sunday of October. In 2026, mark your calendar for Sunday, October 4th! Less well-known than Grandmothers' Day, it is nonetheless a lovely occasion to bring grandchildren and grandparents together over lunch, a walk, or simply a moment spent together.
Gifts and little tokens of affection to dream up with the children
To start, let's hand the floor to the grandchildren — Grandparents' Day is the perfect opportunity to involve them in choosing a gift that truly reflects their grandpa's personality.
A personalized gift just for grandpa
An item with his first name, initials, nickname, or a little note can turn an everyday object into a unique gift.
At Petit Picotin, there's something for every grandpa: a personalized pouch to keep his little belongings within reach, a glasses case for the one who's always searching for them, a personalized sweatshirt for cozy days indoors, or even a cooler bag for the grandpa who's always up for a family outing.
And if you're short on inspiration, don't panic! We'll share a few personalization ideas to help you find the one that truly suits him.
A photo album of their most cherished memories
Phones are overflowing with photos of the children… but how many actually end up printed? This celebration is thus the perfect opportunity to select a few beautiful memories: family holidays, birthdays, outings with grandpa… and then gather them in a small photo album. A simple gift, but one that grandpa is likely to flip through more than once!
A recipe prepared especially for him
We all know that cake grandpa loves… So, for his special day, the children head to the kitchen! Choose a simple recipe they can prepare almost all by themselves.
To play chef to the fullest, grandchildren and grandfather can even put on their personalized apron from Petit Picotin with their first name or their little nickname. Then wrap the sweet treats in a pretty box with a handwritten note. And if a few cookies mysteriously disappear before being given… we won't say a word.
A homemade gift: a box filled with little notes
Each child writes little messages to their grandpa: "I love it when you…", "My best memory with you is…", "You make me laugh when…", or "I'd love for us to do together…".
For the youngest ones who can't write yet, drawings are of course very welcome. Grandpa can then pick out a little note whenever he feels like it.
Original ideas to create new memories with grandpa
Give him an activity to share together
What if, this year, the gift didn't necessarily come in a package? A trip to the cinema, a walk in the forest, a fishing outing, a museum visit, or a board game afternoon: choose an activity grandpa enjoys and turn it into a little gift voucher. The children can make their own invitation: "Good for an afternoon with grandpa", to be used whenever he wishes. A great excuse to create new memories together!
Organize an interview with grandpa
This time, it's the children's turn to ask the questions!
Get grandpa settled comfortably and prepare a little family interview:
- "What job did you want to do when you were little?", - "What was your biggest mischief?", - "What did you play at our age?", - "How did you meet grandma?"…
You can film the conversation, record it, or write down his answers in a little notebook.
A fun way for the children to discover another side of their grandfather, and also to preserve family stories that aren't always thought to be told.
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Recreate an old family photo
Bring out the old albums! Choose a photo of grandpa when he was younger, with his children or grandchildren, then try to recreate it a few years later: same pose, same location if possible, and for the most motivated, similar outfits.
An original idea that gives you a reason to dust off the albums, share a few memories with the children, and pass on a little piece of family history.
How to choose the right gift for Grandparents' Day?
Hard to choose? Simply start by thinking about what the grandfather you want to treat really loves.
And if you're still looking for a gift idea, browse our selection of personalized gifts for grandparents: pouches, clutches, tote bags, aprons or even sweatshirts to personalize according to his habits and preferences.
In the end, there's no need to go overboard!
On Sunday, October 4th, 2026, make the most of this day to call grandpa, pay him a visit, share a laugh, and enjoy a wonderful family moment!
Quotes from your little ones
"Grandpa, how old are you? I was born in 1921. Ahh, very close to Jesus Christ!"
– Benjamin, age 4
"Grandpa is old, but he still runs fast when he wants to catch the cake."
– Lucas, age 5
"Grandpa, were you already a grandpa when Dad was a baby?"
– Léontine, age 4
AUTHOR
Hello, moi c’est Capucine ! J’espère que cet article vous a plu. Passionnée par la rédaction et spécialisée dans les contenus autour de la petite enfance, je fais partie de l’équipe éditoriale Petit Picotin. Au fil du blog, j’explore les questions du quotidien des familles pour vous partager conseils, idées et inspirations, en m’appuyant sur des recherches, des sources spécialisées et l’expertise de notre équipe.
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