Calendar Confusion?
One popular theory, which QI examined with skepticism, links the festival to calendar reform in the late 16th century. Before the adoption of the Gregorian calendar, many countries celebrated the New Year at the end of March or early April.
In 1582, Pope Gregory XIII introduced the new calendar, moving New Year’s Day to January 1st. Those who still celebrated the "old" New Year in April were mocked as fools. This theory has appeal, especially given its association with France, but there is little documentary evidence to support it.
Poisson d’Avril: The French Connection
In France, April 1st is known as Poisson d’Avril, or “April fish,” where pranksters tape paper fish to people's backs. QI panellists discussed this oddity with amusement—why fish?
The fish may relate to Lent, when eating meat was forbidden, and fish became a common food. The fish symbol also has associations with Christianity and fertility, adding layers of symbolism.
Whatever its origin, April Fool’s Day has thrived in cultures across the world, with pranks ranging from harmless to historical. The BBC itself once fooled viewers in 1957 with a now-legendary report about spaghetti growing on trees—a stunt that would have delighted QI’s love of absurdity. shutdown123