April Fool's Day - April 1, 1582

The origin of April Fool’s Day has been disputed but most scholars and historians believe that the holiday originated in France on April 1st, 1582. In 1582, France switched to the Gregorian calendar and New Year’s – which had been celebrated on April 1st – was moved to January 1st. Up until this change, New Year’s celebrations began on March 25th and lasted eight days, until April 1st. Due to the slow news communication at the time, many people continued to celebrate the holiday on April 1st.

Some people refused to believe that New Year’s Day was now on January 1st and continued to celebrate on April 1st for principle. People began to call them ‘April fools’ and to play pranks on them. The holiday evolved and, even after no one celebrated the New Year on April 1st, people still continued to play pranks and pull stunts. The holiday soon spread from France to Scotland, England, and the American colonies. Today, April Fool’s Day is celebrated across the world with each country adding a different flavor to this prank-filled holiday. Its latest evolution has appeared on the Internet with hundreds of sites posting hoaxes across the web.

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