APRIL FOOL’S DAY Learn about the History and Reason for April Fool’s Day!

Have you been a victim of an April Fool’s prank? Or, are you ready to pull a prank of your own this year?  April Fool’s Day falls on April 1 and has its roots in European history.  It’s supposed to be a day of fun and foolishness and nobody is expected to buy gifts or celebrate in an elaborate way.  You do, however, need to be vigilant and keep an eye out for deceptive tricks from friends, family members, and even local businesses.  Read on to learn more about the history of April Fool’s Day and a few fun jokes and gags to pull off on your own!

WHAT IS APRIL FOOL’S DAY?

Historians trace the beginning of the April Fool’s Day tradition to 1582 in France.  When New Year’s Day was officially moved to January 1 with the introduction of the Gregorian Calendar, many people didn’t receive the news for several years and continued to celebrate the beginning of the new year on April 1. They were called ‘fools’ because of it, and this day soon became the day to play pranks on one another to poke fun at the people who were still celebrating New Year’s Day too late.

APRIL FOOL'S DAY AROUND THE WORLD

The tradition of playing pranks is shared in most of the Western world, and many people play light pranks and jokes on friends, family members, coworkers and, in some cases, their boss.  Some historians believe that April Fool’s Day is actually just another ‘renewal festival’ that celebrates the end of the winter and return of spring.  These festivals have been celebrated throughout history; Hilaria is celebrated in Rome in March; the Festival of Lud honors the Celtic god of humor in Northern Europe; and Holi is celebrated near the beginning of March in India.

INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT APRIL FOOL’S DAY

April Fool’s Day is now celebrated and recognized in various forms around the world.  Here are some more fun facts about April Fool’s Day:

• In Scotland, April Fool’s Day is celebrated for two days; the second day is called ‘Taily Day’ where people post ‘Kick Me’ signs on friends, coworkers and family members

• Practical jokes are more common than highly involved pranks on April Fool’s Day; you don’t have to plan too much!

• Mexico honors something similar to April Fool’s Day on December 28 of each year

• In Rome, the Festival of Hilaria (Roman Laughing Day) is celebrated on March 25

• In England, the victim of a joke is called a ‘noodle’

• Sending people on ‘fool errands’ is a popular April Fool’s activity throughout Europe

FUN APRIL FOOL’S JOKES & PRANKS

Ready to join in the fun?  Here are a few funny pranks you can pull off this April Fool’s Day:

Set your roommate’s clock back an hour while they’re sleeping Make some fun food: meat loaf cupcakes; Chicken ‘Not-Pie’ made with pudding and candy instead of chicken and vegetables; and faux pies and meals are some fun ways to celebrate this tradition Tape newspaper over all the furniture in your friend’s house or coworker’s office Cover your roommate’s room with toilet paper ‘streamers’

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APRIL FOOL'S DAY FOOLISHNESS

Article Written By: Sabah Karimi; Sabah is a busy writer from Orlando, Fla., who is passionate about writing on health and fitness, beauty, fashion and style tips, spa and travel topics. She now uses her expertise as a freelance writer to contribute to both DivaVillage.com and VillageMAMA.com.