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In Spain the classic April Fools' Day on 1 April practically does not exist. The Spanish equivalent of the day of pranks falls on 28 December and is called Día de los Santos Inocentes. The Spanish are no strangers to a sense of humour, it has simply been moved in time.
When is the day of pranks in Spain?
The role of April Fools' Day in Spain is played by 28 December – Día de los Santos Inocentes. If you expect jokes, fake news and smiles on 1 April in the Polish style, you may be surprised. The Spanish approach this date completely differently from us.
What does Día de los Santos Inocentes look like?
28 December in Spain:
- the media publish made-up stories, often very credible,
- television channels and websites play “controlled” jokes,
- friends play small pranks on each other,
- children stick paper figures on adults' backs.
Importantly, nobody gets offended. It is a day of not taking yourself or the world too seriously.
What happens in Spain on 1 April?
1 April in Spain is an ordinary day: with no tradition, no jokes and no special cultural significance. If someone plays a prank on you that day, it is quite possible that they will be a foreigner.
What does this difference say about life in Spain?
It is a small thing, but it shows cultural differences well:
- the Spanish celebrate tradition and the calendar of religious holidays,
- humour is present, but “on its own terms”,
- life goes on more calmly, without the compulsion to be funny “because you have to”.
It is precisely such details that make life in Spain different from life in Central Europe: it is more natural and less formulaic.
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Frequently asked questions
Is April Fools' Day celebrated in Spain on 1 April?
No. The classic April Fools' Day practically does not exist in Spain, and 1 April is an ordinary day with no tradition or jokes.
When is the Spanish day of pranks?
On 28 December, on Día de los Santos Inocentes. On this day the Spanish play jokes similar to our April Fools' ones.
What kind of jokes are played on Día de los Santos Inocentes?
The media publish made-up, often credible stories, television channels and websites play “controlled” jokes, friends play pranks on each other, and children stick paper figures on adults' backs.
Do the Spanish take offence at the jokes on 28 December?
No. Día de los Santos Inocentes is a day of not taking yourself or the world too seriously, so nobody gets offended.
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