Did you ever wonder why anyone acknowledges April 1st as anything special?  Although it is not an “official holiday”; people seem to enjoy celebrating it by playing tricks on friends and family members alike.

The origin of April Fools Day (otherwise known as All Fools Day) is a bit uncertain though.  Some believe that is was a celebration of a new calendar year while others believe that it was a celebration of the turn of a season.  Most people believe that it was the first scenario though.

In ancient times, the beginning of the New Year was on or around April 1st.   Like any other “New Year” celebration, there was drinking and other fun to be had by all.  People were knows as “fools” for their hyjinx and crazy behavior at the town celebrations.

The calendar was changed in 1582 and then January 1st became the official New Year.  The interesting fact is that initially people did not like the new calendar.  They decided to keep on celebrating their old New Year on April 1st.

Today, all western cultures celebrate April Fools Day.  People try to play pranks on others and try to make them believe silly stories.  I have vowed that next year, I too am going to join in the fun.  My mind is already racing with the tricks I can play!