april fool's day

The Origin of April Fools Day

The origin of April Fool's Day seems to be a bit of a mystery. The Encyclopedia Britannica states "that although it has been observed for centuries in several countries, the origin of the custom is unknown. It resembles other festivals, such as the Hilaria of ancient Rome (March 25) and the Holi festival of India (ending March 31). Its timing seems related to the vernal equinox (March 21), when nature "fools" mankind with sudden changes in the weather. read more...