May 44 min read

National Asshole Day: Guide to Everything April Fools

written by: Daniel Currie

Cover photo for this blog and its title "National Asshole Day" with link to Article Relevance

Introduction

Alright, prank enthusiasts and curious minds alike—have you ever stumbled upon a calendar so bizarre it features a "National Asshole Day"? If you've ever thought this quirky occasion sounds suspiciously like April Fools' Day, you're not alone. Today, we dive into "everything April Fools," exploring its cheeky connection with National Asshole Day and unveiling the rich tapestry of history and hijinks that surround this day of practical jokes.

The Quirky Origins of National Asshole Day and Its Twin, April Fools:

Every year, as April 1st rolls around, a certain mischievous spirit fills the air. It's not just any playful spirit; it's one that some might call the essence of National Asshole Day. But what's the deal with this unofficial holiday?

National Asshole Day isn't recognized on any official calendar, despite numerous contradictions and random dates from sites, but its spirit is alive and well on April Fools' Day. This is the one day a year where pranks pull us together or push us to vow revenge. From the harmless to the elaborate, pranks are both the hallmark of April Fools and the reason why it might as well be called National Asshole Day.

Delving into the History: Everything April Fools

The origins of April Fools' Day are as murky as the coffee you switched for saltwater in your spouse's mug this morning. Historically, it dates back to the 16th century when France shifted from the Julian calendar to the Gregorian calendar as called for by the Council of Trent. Those who failed to realize that the start of the new year had moved to January 1st and continued celebrating it during the last week of March became the target of jokes and hoaxes.

AI image of 16th century France with man pinning a paper fish on another's back on the street with everybody laughing

These early pranks gave rise to an annual celebration of shenanigans that spread across Europe and, later, the world. The term "Poisson d'Avril" (April Fish) became a popular joke in France, involving pinning a paper fish on someone's back as a declaration of gullibility.

Epic Pranks That Defined National Asshole Day (AKA April Fools)

Fast forward to modern times, and the pranks have only gotten more ingenious and, yes, sometimes more asshole-ish. Here are some of the most memorable April Fools' pranks that perfectly capture the spirit of National Asshole Day:

AI image of the 1905 Berliner Tageblatt April Fools' article of burglars digging under the U.S. Treasury and robbing it

1905: A German newspaper company, Berliner Tageblatt, released a fictional story of burglars digging under the U.S. Treasury and robbing it, which sent the U.S. into panic mode, trying to catch the fictional characters
1957: The BBC aired a fake news segment about Swiss farmers enjoying a bountiful spaghetti harvest, complete with footage of people picking spaghetti from trees.

1985: Sports Illustrated published a story about a rookie pitcher named Sidd Finch who could throw a fastball over 168 miles per hour.

Sidd Finch, the fictional Sports Illustrated character throwing a ball on a beach in a Mets uniform

1996: Taco Bell convinced the public they had purchased the Liberty Bell and were renaming it the "Taco Liberty Bell."
1998: Burger King advertised a "Left-Handed Whopper," leading to request chaos at restaurants.
2013: The U.S. Army declared they were drafting cats, citing cost-cutting measures and an all-paws-on-deck policy.

AI image of a cat dressed in an Army uniform and helmet reporting for the Army's 2013 (April Fools') recruitment

Tips for Celebrating National Asshole Day Responsibly

While pulling off the perfect prank can feel like a badge of honor, it's important to keep the spirit of fun alive without crossing into actual asshole territory. Here are some tips for responsible pranking:

Keep it light: The best pranks are harmless and generate laughter from everyone involved, including the prankee.
Know your audience: What works for one person might not be appropriate for another. Tailor your pranks to suit the individual's sense of humor and tolerance.
Safety first: Never compromise someone's safety (or your own) for the sake of a joke.

AI image of a teenage boy in a classroom with a bookbag and jean jacket holding a sign saying "Tree nut allergies are life-treating not a joke!"

Wrapping Up: Why We Embrace the Prankster Within

National Asshole Day and everything April Fools remind us of the value of humor in our lives. In an age where laughter sometimes seems in short supply, a well-executed prank can be a welcome distraction and a means to bond with friends, family, and coworkers.

So, as we look forward to April 1st, let's plan to unleash our inner pranksters—but maybe keep the real asshole moves to a minimum. Have any epic pranks you've pulled or fallen for? Share your stories below, and let's have a laugh!

Final Thoughts

Whether you call it National Asshole Day or April Fools' Day, the first of April is a time for laughter, jest, and the occasional look over your shoulder. It's a day to celebrate the trickster in all of us and to remember not to take life too seriously—at least not today.

AI image of young teenage girl laughing playing a prank on her father by putting toothpaste on smiley face cookies making them look like they are brushing their teeth

Let me know in the comments what you did this April Fools! Did you play it safe, or did you earn the title of "Ultimate Asshole" with your pranks? Cheers to a day filled with laughs and good-natured fun!