April Fool's Day

Everybody thinks Aprils Fool’s Day began around 1582 in France, but the history is uncertain of the exact time period.  It is known that all this confusion started with the reform of changing the Gregorian calendar under French king, Charles IX.  New Year’s Day was moved from weeklong celebrations of March 25-April 1 to January 1. Those days communication traveled slowly, the news did not reach many people and so when some people continued to celebrate on the last day of the New Year week, i.e. April 1; such people were called “fools”. Such people were sent on “fool errands”, or sent invitations for nonexistent parties. 

 Over time, fooling people on April 1 has evolved into playing pranks. Slowly it was spread to different countries and has added their native flavor to it. In Scotland it is more of spoofs, in England more of jokes, in Portugal throwing flour at their friends. April Fool’s Day is celebrated for-fun-only. Today, practical jokes are played; pranks are played upon from simple to elaborate at offices, at schools and home.  It is so common that when somebody plays practical joke on you, you immediately say ha! Today is not April 1. When we are fooled we will be told that today is Fools Day sometimes we feel embarrassed. Keep the pranks mild, and see to it that it does not hurt others feelings. Recently my younger one filled empty toothpaste with water and kept ready for me to use. Unaware of it, I started to push the toothpaste on to the brush and water spilled all over; when I heard his laughing, I soon realized he played a prank on me. No matter where you happen to be in the world on April 1, don't be surprised if someone plays practical joke on you.

"April 1.  This is the day upon which we are reminded of what we are on the other three hundred and sixty-four."

-Mark Twain