Protaprilia: All you need to know about the Greek version of April Fools’ Day

·

April Fools’ Day — on April 1 each year — has been celebrated for several centuries by different cultures. Traditions include playing hoaxes or practical jokes on others, often yelling “April Fools!” at the end to clue in the subject of the April Fools’ Day prank.

While its exact history and origins are shrouded in mystery, the embrace of April Fools’ Day jokes by the media and major brands has ensured the unofficial holiday’s long life.

Origins of April Fools Day:

There are two scenarios regarding the origins of April Fools’ Day. One version says the tradition originates with the Celts. The Celtic fishing season begun on April 1st but during that period, there were not that many fish, leading the fishermen to lie about the amount of fish that they caught.

Another, more historically acceptable version regarding the origins of April Fools day, dates back to 1582 when France switched from the Julian calendar to the Gregorian calendar. This switch meant New Year’s would be celebrated on January 1st instead of April 1st. The people of France were divided in two – with some opposing the change and continuing with the celebration on April 1st, while others accepted the change but continued to send New Year’s presents on April 1st as a tease.

April Fools Day in Greece:

Since Greece belongs to Europe, the April Fools tradition spread throughout the country as well, with a slightly different version.

The basic idea was that Greeks started telling small, innocent lies on April 1st, thinking that whoever manages to trick the “victim,” will have luck along his/her side for the rest of the year.

In other parts, it is believed that the person who plays the trick, will have good crops.

In addition, if it rains on April Fools’ Day, in some parts in Greece, the water is believed to have healing powers.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

Hellenic Lyceum of Sydney unites generations at vibrant Ypapanti Dance

The Hellenic Lyceum of Sydney held its second inter-generational Ypapanti Dance in traditional paniyiri style at the Greek Community Club.

Greek Glendi shines at Canberra’s National Multicultural Festival

Canberra came alive with the sights, sounds and flavours of Greece over the weekend as the National Multicultural Festival took place.

Cousins Danielle and Vicki Vlahos battle over $800k loans and fashion label

Two cousins, Danielle and Vicki Vlahos, who founded the $7 million fashion label Portia & Scarlett, are embroiled in a legal battle.

David Catsoulis promotes new $477m mining venture amidst past failures

David Catsoulis, a twice-bankrupt mining promoter, is once again pursuing a new venture, despite past failures.

Sarantis Parissos faces victim impact statements over hit-and-run and police car theft

A female police officer who was dragged along the ground in a horrific hit-and-run has expressed doubts about continuing her career.

You May Also Like

Choose To Challenge on 2021 International Women’s Day: Six events you can attend

This year’s theme International Women's Day theme focuses on the ability to ‘call out’ gender bias and inequity in every day situations.

Elfa Moraitakis joins Multicultural NSW Advisory Board

Multicultural NSW has welcomed two new voices to the Multicultural NSW Advisory Board and reappointed two current members.

Sylvania Waters boy James Mina charged with drug possession after police raid

23-year-old James Mina was charged with drug possession after a dramatic police raid reportedly found $2300 cash, anabolic steroids and a prohibited weapon.