We love the beginning of April—not just because it marks the midpoint of spring, but also for the joy and laughter brought on by April Fools’ Day. Here in Britain, we eagerly await spoof newspaper headlines and hoax news stories that never fail to amuse. But did you know April Fools’ Day is celebrated all over the world? Since our team and clients hail from many countries, let’s take a look at how some cultures celebrate this whimsical day.
Around the world, April Fools’ Day brings cultures closer through shared laughter and playful traditions. If you love discovering cultural quirks like these, there’s no better way than meeting people from around the globe. Our escort agency proudly represents the perfect companions to help you explore new traditions in the heart of the city.
A Surprising History of Jokes and Pranks
France: April Fools’ Day originated in medieval France. Until the mid-16th century, the New Year began on April 1st. When King Charles IX shifted the start of the year to January 1st, some people kept celebrating in April, prompting others to play pranks on them. Given that April fell during Lent, when fish was the preferred dish, many jokes involved fake fish. Today, the French honor the Poisson d’Avril tradition by taping paper fish to unsuspecting victims’ backs—making them the ‘April Fish.’
Brazil: Many of our wonderful escorts hail from Brazil, where April Fools’ Day is known as ‘o dia das mentiras,’ or the day of lies. Brazilians embrace the fun wholeheartedly, playing pranks and spreading spoof stories in the media. In the 19th century, the satirical newspaper Mentiras became famous for its outlandish articles, including a notorious fake report about Emperor Pedro’s death—and even a fictional address for creditors to claim their money.
Scotland: Scots, famous for their dry wit, have made the most of April Fools’ Day by turning it into a two-day affair. The first, known as ‘Hunt the Gowk Day,’ involves sending friends on ridiculous errands via sealed messages that keep the fun going. On the second day, participants attach signs to each other’s backs for even more mischief.
Persia: Long before the tradition reached Europe, Persians were marking April 1st as the start of the New Year with humor, pranks, and celebrations as far back as 536 BC. The day is spent outdoors with friends and family, sharing food and laughter. As part of the tradition, Iranians toss away vegetables after their picnic to symbolically rid themselves of bad luck or illness for the year ahead.

