Día de los Inocentes: The Mexican Version of April Fools’ Day
Every year, on April 1, people in the United States and other countries play pranks and jokes on their friends, family, and even strangers. This day is known as April Fools’ Day, and its origins are unclear. Some historians trace it back to the 16th century, when France changed its calendar and moved the new year from April to January. Others link it to ancient festivals of laughter and mischief, such as the Roman Hilaria or the Indian Holi.
But did you know that there is another day of fun and foolery in the world? In Mexico and other Latin American countries, December 28 is celebrated as Día de los Inocentes, or Day of the Innocents. This day has a different and darker history than April Fools’ Day, but it also involves making jokes and tricking people.
Día de los Inocentes commemorates the biblical story of King Herod, who ordered the massacre of all the male children under two years old in Bethlehem, hoping to kill the newborn Jesus. The innocent victims of this cruel act are known as the Holy Innocents, and they are honored as martyrs by the Catholic Church.
However, over time, the solemn meaning of the day faded and people started to use it as an excuse to have fun and make fun of others. The most common prank is to borrow something from someone and never return it, saying “Inocente palomita que te dejaste engañar, sabiendo que en este día nada se debe prestar” (Innocent little dove that you let yourself be fooled, knowing that on this day nothing should be lent). Another popular joke is to stick a paper fish on someone’s back and call them “poisson d’avril” (April fish), a French expression that also means a gullible person.
Like April Fools’ Day, Día de los Inocentes also features fake news and hoaxes in the media, especially on social media platforms. Some of these jokes are harmless and funny, but others can be offensive or dangerous. Therefore, it is important to be careful and check the sources before believing or sharing anything on this day.
Día de los Inocentes and April Fools’ Day are two different traditions that share a common spirit of humor and creativity. They are both ways of celebrating life and friendship, and of coping with the challenges and uncertainties of the world. So, whether you are in Mexico or in the U.S., don’t forget to laugh and have fun on these days, but also to be respectful and responsible with your jokes. And remember, don’t trust anyone on December 28 or April 1!
TYT Newsroom
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The people who were hurt by this horrible act are called the Holy Innocents, and the Catholic Church honors them as saints.