An ancient Roman festival and a fish?
The theories behind April Fools Day are no joke.
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Key Takeaways
April first is a prankster’s paradise.
Photo:Olga Yastremska/Getty Images
Here are a few common theories and some background on this mischievous holiday.
April Fools Day always falls on the first day of April.
For die-hard pranksters already thinking ahead, it falls on a Wednesday in 2026.
Hilaria called for all sorts of amusements and gamesincluding masquerades and imitations.
It is thought that people who were stillcelebrating the new yearin the spring were teased.
The term is first referenced in a poem from 1508.
The poem tells of a nobleman sending his servant onfruitless errands.
The servant recognized that, because it was April 1st, he was being sent on fools errands.
(Maybe a perfect excuse to make somefish-shaped cookies?)
Scotland
The Scottish apparently dedicate two whole days to fun and pranks.
But could playing a prank bring you good luck?
Just play it safe and check that whatever pranks you pull won’t harm others.
For Kids
Fun With Food
Item and Routine Swaps
HILA RIA.
A Dictionary of Greek and Roman Antiquities (1890).
Library of Congress Blogs.
How a BU Prof April-Fooled the Country.
