April Fools’ Day 2025 Around The World: 8 Countries With Most Extreme Prank Traditions

April 1st—the one day of the year when trust issues are fully justified. From innocent jokes to elaborate hoaxes, people across the world embrace April Fools’ Day with open arms (and hidden agendas). But while some stick to classic gags, others have turned prank culture into an art form.

Ever wondered how different countries celebrate this day of deception? Here’s a look at eight places that take April Fools’ pranking to extreme levels—consider this both an inspiration and a warning.

 

Think prank wars are modern? The French have been at it since the 16th century. Instead of fake lottery tickets or staged engagements, they prefer a more fishy approach—literally. On April 1st, children (and some mischievous adults) stick paper fish onto unsuspecting people's backs, yelling “Poisson d’Avril!” (April Fish). No one really knows why, but it’s an enduring tradition that’s both harmless and hilarious.

One day of pranks isn’t enough for the Scots. They go all in with Hunt the Gowk Day on April 1st, where people are sent on absurd wild goose chases. Just when you think it’s over, the next day rolls around, bringing Tailie Day—a full 24 hours dedicated to sticking embarrassing notes on people’s backs. Scotland clearly takes prank season seriously.

 

In Poland, April Fools’ Day (known as Prima Aprilis) is all about deception. The rule of the day? Trust no one. Even news outlets and government agencies get in on the fun, spreading fake stories with a straight face. The popular saying, “Prima Aprilis, uważaj, bo się pomylisz!” (April Fools’ Day, be careful—you can be fooled!), serves as a warning to the gullible.

Brazilians call April 1st Dia das Mentiras (Day of Lies), and they mean it. Expect fake news, wild rumors, and expertly crafted fibs making their way through social media. If you value the truth, your best bet is to stay skeptical—or better yet, log off entirely.

Long before April Fools’ Day was a thing, Persians were already celebrating deception. Sizdah Bedar, observed on April 1st or 2nd, is a mix of superstition, nature outings, and (of course) pranks. The goal? Have fun and ward off bad luck while tricking friends and family.

Germans don’t just play practical jokes—they create Aprilscherz, pranks so convincing they make you question reality. Even newspapers and TV stations participate, publishing absurd but oddly believable fake stories. If you ever read about Germany launching a nationwide “nap time” law, take it with a grain of salt.

Portugal doesn’t bother with April 1st—because their prank season comes before Lent. Instead of subtle tricks, pranksters go all out by throwing flour at unsuspecting victims. It’s messy, chaotic, and probably the most hands-on prank tradition in the world.

Why stop at April? In Spain and much of Latin America, pranksters wait until December 28th for Día de los Santos Inocentes (Day of the Holy Innocents). The best part? The victims have no right to be angry—if you fall for a joke, you just have to accept it and laugh along.

Whether you're dodging paper fish in France, double-checking news in Germany, or shaking off flour in Portugal, one thing is clear: pranks are a global language. Just remember—on April 1st (or December 28th, if you’re in Spain), trust no one!

(Pics Credits: Freepik)

 

 

(This article is intended for your general information only. Zee News does not vouch for its accuracy or reliability.)