April Fool's Days History

The History of April Fool's Day is uncertain, but the current thinking is that it began around 1582 in France with the reform of the calender under Charles IX. The Gregorian Calender was introduced, and New Year's Day was moved from March 25 - April 1 (new year's week) to January 1.

Communication traveled slowly in those days and some people were only informed of the change several years later. Still others, who were more rebellious refused to acknowledge the change and continued to celebrate on the last day of the former celebration, April 1.

These people were labelled 'fools' by the general populace, were subject to ridicule and sent on ''fool errands'', sent invitations to non-existent parties and had other practical jokes played upon them. The butts of these pranks became known as a ''poisson d'avril'' or ''April Fish'' because a young naive fish is easily caught. In addition, one common practice was to hook a paper fish on the back of someone as a joke.

poissonavril

This harassment evolved overtime and a custom of prank-playing continue on the first day of April. This tradition eventually spread elsewhere like to Britain and Scotland in the 18th century and was introduced to the American colonies by the English and the French. Because of the spread to each country celebrating the holiday in its own way.

 In Scotland, for instance, April Fool's Day is devoted to spoofs involving the buttocks and as such is call Taily Day. The butts of these jokes are known as April 'Gowk', another name for cuckoo bird. The origin of the "Kick Me" sign can be traced back to the Scottish observence.

In England, jokes are played only in the morning. Fools are called 'gobs' or 'gobby' and the victim of the joke is called a 'noodle'. It was considered back luck to play a practical joke on someone after noon.

In Rome, the holiday is known a Festival of Hilaria, celebrating the resurrection of the god Attis, is on March 26 and is also referred to as "Roman Laughing Day".

In Portugal, April Fool's Day falls on the Sunday and Monday before lent. In this celebration, many people throw flour at their friends.

The Huli Festival is celebrated on March 31 in India. People play jokes on one another and smear colors on one another celebrating the arrival of Spring.

So, no matter where you happen to be on the world on April 1, don't be suprised if April fools fall playfully upon you.