There are many theories as to the origin of "April Fool's Day" or "All Fool's Day" on April 1. Some people believe that it may have begun in 1564 in France when the date of New Year's Day was changed from March 25 to January 1. Prior to that change, New Year's was celebrated from March 25 till April 1. As a joke, some Frenchman offered gifts to those who had forgotten the change of date.

Although the origin of the day was unknown, its celebration became common practice in England in the eighteenth century. The custom was brought to America by early settlers from England.

April Fool's Day is traditionally a day to play practical jokes on others, send people on fool's errands, and fool the unsuspecting. Some old stunts which are still used today include pinning signs on people's backs, putting salt or pepper in candy, telling people they have a hole in their clothes or food on their face, holding items in place by string, and passing false messages or phone calls.

Even though April Fool's Day is not a real American holiday in the sense that it is observed by schools or the government, it is still a day recognized by many. Everyone is "taken in" at some time or another on April 1.