History of April Fools' Day in Timeline

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By Popular Timelines Editorial Team  · Updated:
April Fools' Day

April Fools' Day, observed annually on April 1st, is a tradition characterized by the performance of practical jokes and hoaxes. Those perpetrating the pranks typically reveal their actions by exclaiming "April Fools!" at the target of the joke. Mass media outlets sometimes participate in these hoaxes, disclosing the truth on the subsequent day. Historically, dedicating a day to harmless pranks has been a widespread custom across various cultures.

1957: BBC Spaghetti Tree Hoax

In 1957, the BBC broadcast a segment on their Panorama program showcasing Swiss farmers harvesting freshly-grown spaghetti, leading to a flood of inquiries about purchasing spaghetti plants. The next day, the BBC declared the film a hoax.

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1957: Newspapers Split on BBC Spaghetti-Tree Hoax Reception

In 1957, the reception to the BBC "spaghetti-tree hoax" caused newspapers to split over whether it was "a great joke or a terrible hoax on the public".

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1973: Origin of Humorina in Odesa

In 1973, April Fools' Day gained a special local name in Odesa: Humorina. This marked the beginning of its unique celebration in the city.

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1993: Publication of April Fool's Day by Bryce Courtenay

In 1993, Bryce Courtenay's novel "April Fool's Day", was published, its title referring to the day Courtenay's son died.

The Ghost And The Bounty Hunter: William Buckley, John Batman And The Theft Of Kulin Country
The Ghost And The Bounty Hunter: William Buckley, John Batman And The Theft Of Kulin Country
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2004: Launch of Gmail

In 2004, Google announced the launch of Gmail with 1-gigabyte inboxes, which many dismissed as a joke.

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2010: Inauguration of the International Clown Festival

Since 2010, April Fools' Day celebrations in Odesa have included an International Clown Festival, celebrated jointly as one event.

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2019: Humorina Dedicated to Odesa Film Studio Anniversary

In 2019, the Humorina festival was dedicated to the 100th anniversary of the Odesa Film Studio, with all events emphasizing cinema.

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2021: Google Decides Not To Do Pranks

In 2021, Google decided not to do pranks, as the pandemic was still ongoing.

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