April Fools' Day, How Did It Start?

Today is April 1, which means it's April Fools' Day, the day for pranks. But how did it get started?

The history of April Fools' Day, which is sometimes called All Fools' Day, is not totally clear. Some believe it evolved simultaneously in several cultures at the same time, from celebrations involving the first day of spring.

The closest point in time that can be identified as the beginning of April Fools' Day is 1582, in France. Prior to that year, the new year was celebrated for eight days, beginning on March 25. The celebration culminated on April 1. When the Gregorian Calendar was introduced, New Year's Day was moved to January 1.

Communication being what it was in the days when news traveled by foot, many people did not receive the news for several years. Others, the more obstinate crowd, refused to accept the new calendar and continued to celebrate the new year on April 1. These folk were labeled "fools" by the general populace. They were subject to some ridicule, and were often sent on "fools errands" or were made the butt of practical jokes. 

Are you playing a prank this year? Here's a few ideas.

This harassment evolved, over time, into a tradition of prank-playing on the first day of April. It spread around the world and April Fools' Day became an international fun fest, so to speak, with different nationalities specializing in their own brand of humor at the expense of their friends and families.

TELL US: What is the best prank you've ever seen or pulled? Share your stories in the comments section below.

Also, if you're planning to trick someone on April Fools’ Day, let us know how it goes! Take a photo or video and share it with local readers on Northville Patch by clicking on the “Upload photos and videos” icon above.