April Fools' Day, April 1. A day on which practical jokes are played on people.
Also known as
All Fools' Day. In northern England this day is
known as
April Noddy, and in Scotland as
Huntigowok Day. In France, the person fooled is called a
poisson d'avril, or "April fish", possibly meaning a young fish that is easily caught.
There are various theories about how April Fools' Day originated; the most plausible is that
it originated in France.
Although the new year began on January 1 during the Roman Era, during the Middle Ages it began
to be observed around March 25, being considered the spring equinox as well as Easter.
The celebrations lasted for a week, ending with, on April 1, a day of social calls and gift
giving.
In 1564, Charles IX reestablished January 1 as New Year's Day.
Those who were resistant to the change, continued to observe the new year's customs on
April 1st, which included exchanging gifts and social visits.
These people were then made fun of by others, who sent them mock invitations or mock gifts.
It is also possible that April Fools' Day has ancient origins, since there are similar customs
throughout the world near the beginning of spring.
Arab League Day
Arab League Day, March 22. Anniversary of the establishment of the Arab League in 1945.
Oberserved in Egypt, Iraq, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Syria, and Yemen.
Arbor Day
Arbor Day. First observed in Nebraska on April 10, 1872, at the
suggestion of J. Sterling Morton, one time governor of Nebraska.
Presidential proclamation designates the last Friday of April as
National Arbor Day, but different states observe it at different times due to local
climates, etc.
Plant a tree on this day.
It is even a legal holiday in some states.
Similar days are also observed in Canada, Jordan, South Korea, and Spain.
Antigua and Barbuda
April Fools' Day, April 1. A day on which practical jokes are played on people.
Also known as
All Fools' Day. In northern England this day is
known as
April Noddy, and in Scotland as
Huntigowok Day. In France, the person fooled is called a
poisson d'avril, or "April fish", possibly meaning a young fish that is easily caught.
There are various theories about how April Fools' Day originated; the most plausible is that
it originated in France.
Although the new year began on January 1 during the Roman Era, during the Middle Ages it began
to be observed around March 25, being considered the spring equinox as well as Easter.
The celebrations lasted for a week, ending with, on April 1, a day of social calls and gift
giving.
In 1564, Charles IX reestablished January 1 as New Year's Day.
Those who were resistant to the change, continued to observe the new year's customs on
April 1st, which included exchanging gifts and social visits.
These people were then made fun of by others, who sent them mock invitations or mock gifts.
It is also possible that April Fools' Day has ancient origins, since there are similar customs
throughout the world near the beginning of spring.
