April Fools’ Day
Expect good natured pranks, tricks and humor today.
Expect good natured pranks, tricks and humor today.
Origin
Although the exact origins are unknown, some historians believe the history of April Fools’ Day dates back to 1582 when France switched from the Julienne to the Gregorian calendar (which became the international standard). With the switch, the new year began on January 1, not April 1 like on the Julian calendar. Those who forgot and celebrated in April were called “April fools” and became the butt of jokes and pranks.
When it is observed
April Fools’ Day is celebrated on April 1 of each year.
Traditions
Friends, families, coworkers, and even major commercial brands alike play pranks and jokes on this day. Whether simple or elaborate, the goal is to have fun. In one legendary 1957 prank, the UK's BBC TV convinced viewers that Swiss farmers harvested spaghetti from trees. When interested viewers asked how they could grow a spaghetti tree of their own, they were advised to stick a pasta strand in tomato sauce and see what happened.