April Fool’s Day 2023

This Saturday marks April Fool’s Day, the first day of April where practical pranks are expected and enjoyed. And of course, New York City knows how to celebrate! But first why does this tradition of pranks and practical jokes on April 1st exist at all?

While the actual history or birth of April Fool’s Day is unknown, historians speculate that April Fools’ Day dates back to Medieval France. In 1582, France switched from the Julian calendar to the Gregorian calendar. This was due to a change mandated by the powerful Council of Trent in 1563. In the Julian Calendar, the new year began with the spring equinox around April 1. Since it was medieval times, news of the change traveled slowly. Those who continued to celebrate the new year on the last week of March and 1st of April were mocked and made of fun of with jokes and pranks. The tradition seems to have lived on.

New York’s irreverent April Fools’ Day Parade returns this year. The theme of the 2023 parade is “Countdown to Complete Idiocy”. The parade traditionally pokes fun at the past year’s displays of political corruption, public deceit, bigotry, and open displays of foolishness as captured by the media. New Yorkers and tourists alike are encouraged to participate in the shenanigans and the fun spirit of the parade. According to the parade’s official press release, participants “create outrageous floats and dress up as look-alikes in colorful costumes to reflect the folly of the nuttiest politicians, crooked corporate leaders, silly celebrities, and whoever else has been a total fool in the past year. The public is encouraged to participate, in or out of costume, with or without floats. Customized bicycles, tricycles, baby carriages, and helium balloons are welcome.”

The parade will start at Fifth Ave and 59th St at 12 noon, Saturday, April 1, and proceed downtown to Washington Square Park. In Wash Park, the parade will end with a celebration and in the climactic crowning of the King of Fools! You won’t want to miss it! You can find the official press release and more information here.

This April 1 is the perfect day to get some hilarious comedy in. Luckily this event has got you covered with comedians, musical guests and actors alike putting on a star-studded show. April Fools Comedy Jam features Tiffany Haddish, Rip Micheals, Donnell Rawlings, Emmanuel Hudson, Conceited, Bill Bellamy and more! Tickets available online.

Saturday April 1, 2023

8pm

Barclay’s Center

620 Atlantic Avenue

Brooklyn, New York 11217

This April Fool’s Day, come to Rufus King Park for an event that’s fun for the whole family. The King Manor Museum invites you to learn about some safe and fun jokes and pranks from the 19th century, harvest your own donut seeds, and make the classic Rattlesnake Eggs envelope prank. This fun tribute to April Fool’s Day pranks will bring out the cheeky spirit!

Saturday, April 1, 2023

1:00 p.m.–4:00 p.m.

King Manor Museum

Rufus King Park

150-03 Jamaica Ave

Jamaica, NY 11432

Although it’s not exactly known for its practical jokes or April Fool’s shenanigans, there’s something playful about a day trip to an amusement park. Plus, it signals the beginning of spring! Grab your sunglasses and sunscreen because the ever-fun amusement park Luna Park in Coney Island is officially opening for weekends on March 31. Join in the fun, catch the rides, play games and see the historical merry-go-round, built in 1906 and recently restored. There is an official opening celebration on April 2.

Luna Park in Coney Island

1000 Surf Avenue

Brooklyn, NY 11224

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*Due to Covid-19 our restaurant, cafe and gym will remain closed for a time.