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‘April Fool’s Day’, also called ‘All Fools’ Day’, in most countries is the first day of April. It received its name from the custom of playing practical jokes on this day—for example, telling friends that their shoelaces are untied or sending them on so-called fools’ errands.

Although the day has been observed for centuries, there are different explanations for its origin. It resembles festivals such as the Hilaria of ancient Rome, held on March 25, and the Holi celebration in India, which ends on March 31.

The modern custom may have originated in France when the Gregorian calendar, which moved New Year’s Day from March 25 to January 1, was adopted in 1582. Those who continued to celebrate the end of New Year Week on April 1 were referred to as fools. The timing of the day also may be related to the vernal equinox (March 21), a time when people are said to be fooled by sudden changes in the weather.

There are variations between countries in the celebration of April Fools’ Day, but all have in common an excuse to make someone play the fool.

Extracted from:
“April Fools’ Day.” Encyclopædia Britannica. 2007. Encyclopædia Britannica Online Library Edition. 25 Oct. 2007

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Answered by Ms TAY Hwee Chen, Librarian, Adult and Young People’s Services

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