April Fools’ Day 2023: Why is it celebrated on April 1? You will be shocked to find out why
What's the origin, history, and significance of April Fools' Day 2023? Here's everything you need to know.
We all look forward to that time of year when we can try playful pranks on our loved ones. With the fun moment comes the historical evidence behind the celebration of this day. Nevertheless, before you know the reason, let's go back to the enjoyable time of year. Every year on April 1, April Fools' Day is observed. But do you know why?
To be specific, this day is neither a holiday nor an occasion, yet it has been observed by the United Kingdom (UK) for the past two centuries. It extends its observance to several parts of the world. Even India celebrates this day with a variety of jokes and humorous programmes.
Do you remember the iconic Bollywood song with the lyrics 'April Fool Banaya '? Yes, the song represents April Fools’ Day and the fact that this day is also observed in our country. To learn more about this day, read about its history and origins below.
APRIL FOOLS’ DAY 2023: KNOW THE ORIGIN BEHIND THE CELEBRATION OF THIS DAY
There have been many hypotheses regarding the origin of this day. Yet, the most well-known ones date back to the 16th century, when Pope Gregory XIII instituted the Gregorian calendar. This calendar established January 1 as the beginning of the New Year. According to the Julian calendar, the new year begins on April 1.
In the process of changing the New Year, France became the first country to implement the modifications in New Year's celebrations. Some other countries did not embrace the New Year's Day adoption. As a result, individuals who followed the Gregorian calendar were mocked and ridiculed.
Those who refused to follow were afterwards mocked and labelled as stupid. This gave rise to the April Fools' Day custom on April 1. Several Indian states observe their new year in the months of March and April. And still, this never stopped Indians from being united with varied cultures and traditions.
APRIL FOOLS’ DAY 2023: SIGNIFICANCE
The pranks performed on this day should not be harmful and overburdened. The day is just to have fun and create memories.
Though we know the reason behind the celebration, this day also brings positivity to our lives.
APRIL FOOLS’ DAY 2023: CELEBRATION ACROSS THE WORLD
In France, the day is dedicated to children playing pranks on their friends by fixing paper fish on their backs.
In Scotland, this day is observed for two consecutive days and the second day is called 'Taily Day.' The pranks gave rise to the ‘kick me’ symbol.
Since 1986, there have been fake news releases promoting a non-existent April Fools' Day Parade in New York.
On April Fools' Day, countries like Canada and England celebrate this day traditionally by abstaining from jokes after midday.