History of April Fools Day

There are two theories on the history of April Fools Day – interestingly, they both surrounding the coming of a New Year.

Persian Theory

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• One likely theory is that April Fool’s Day comes from the Persian tradition of Sizdah Bedar – the last phase of the Persian New Year – which is believed to be the oldest prank-related tradition in the world still alive, celebrated by Persians as far back as 536 BC.
• The custom is to spend the day outdoors in the parks or the countryside. It is believed that Joy and Laughter clean the mind from all evil thoughts, and the picnic is usually a festive or happy event.
• In modern times people go to parks, have a picnic and throw their sabzeh – the sprouts they grow – into a river, symbolizing the cycle of life. Some people also release goldfish into a pond or river.

See our ideas for an April Fools Day Joy & Laughter Picnic

French Theory

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• There is a theory that when France changed its calendar in 1564 to recognize January 1st as the beginning of the New Year rather than March people played tricks on those who failed to embrace the change.
• One of these tricks was to stick paper fish to their backs and call them Poisson d’Avril or April Fish, which what they still call an April Fool to this day.

See our ideas for an April Fools Day Poisson d’Avril Party

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I found the history of April Fools Day very inspiring! We’ve celebrated the day using both traditions and made it our own. I hope you get some great ideas on how to put more play in your April Fools Day – not just mean pranking – to create happy memories.

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What Now?

• Are you interested in “celebrating” April Fools day – or is it just a prank day to you? Tell us all about it in the comments!
• Want more April Fools Day ideas? See our Pinterest Inspiration Board.
• Planning an April Fools Day party? Want ideas on how to celebrate with your kids? Check out the articles shown below.

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April Fools Day Invitation Ideas Full of Laughs

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April Fools Day Can of Tricks for Surprise on Kids' Lunch or as Invitation

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TV Dinner Cupcakes Wows the Crowd & They'll Never Know How Easy It Was

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Kids April Fools Day Activities that are Tears-free & Fun to the Max

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Kids Backwards Party Ideas that Delight & Amaze

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It's Poisson D'Avril - Time for Pranks and Party

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