April Fools’ Day

“April 1st: This is the day upon which we are reminded of what we are on the other three-hundred and sixty-four.” — Mark Twain

April Fools’ Day is celebrated on April 1st throughout Western Europe and North America. It’s a day for playing pranks or suffer being a fool. In some countries the pranks last only until noon; in others, the festivities continue all day.

April Fools’ Day has its roots in the celebrations surrounding the vernal equinox on March 25. Prior to the 16th century, New Year’s Day was marked on April 2 and April Fools’ Day pranks were part of the send-off of the old year. The practice was first seen in France and Britain.

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