Do you like pranking people?

If the answer is yes then this blog is definitely for you!

You’ve probably heard of or even celebrated April Fool’s Day in previous years, a day full of practical jokes and hoaxes that happens all around Europe in different countries.

Spain does something very similar to this but here it is called «Dia de los Santos Inocentes» which translates to «Day of the Holy Innocents» and it is celebrated in several Spanish-speaking countries on December 28th.

If you want to experience some laughs and find out all about this Spanish tradition then keep on reading!

What is the history of Dia de los Santos Inocentes?

One surprising thing is that the history of this event is actually far from humorous and fun! Its origin dates back to a biblical event recorded in the Gospel of Matthew, which recounts King Herod’s order to execute all male infants in Bethlehem to try to kill the baby Jesus, whom he saw as a threat to his throne.

This tragic event is actually remembered as the «Massacre of the Innocents,» and it is commemorated on December 28th to  honor the innocent children who became the unintended victims of King Herod’s cruelty.

Luckily for us, over time, the Day of the Holy Innocents has transformed in some cultures into a day of light-hearted pranks. While remembered as a somber and tragic biblical event, the day has evolved into a time for playful tricks and jokes among friends, family, and communities in Spanish-speaking countries!

What types of jokes do people come up with on this day?

There is not just one joke that people play on this day, there are various things that friends and families engage in to bring laughter and joy to the occasion!  Here are some examples:

Practical Jokes: Maybe in the office or at your place at work would be the best place for practical jokes. These include putting salt inside the sugar bowl, setting up harmless traps or placing a whoopee cushion on the seats – the opportunities are endless!

Media Hoaxes: Sometimes, newspapers, radio stations, and other media outlets publish fake news or stories to entertain their audience. These stories are clearly labeled as pranks to avoid confusion

Silly Behaviors: Engaging in silly or goofy behaviors, like wearing mismatched clothes, pretending to be someone else, or making exaggerated claims, ( this is all in good fun of course).

Are there other ways to celebrate this day?

Dia de los Santos Inocentes isn’t only about joking around! Unlike April Fools Day, in Spain this day is also celebrated with lots of food! No matter your location on the peninsula, you will surely be surrounded by tasty tapas, feast on an enormous meal, or be able to snack on delicious sweets at bakeries and street stands.

A lot of medium-sized cities have parades, carnivals, and even balls and fund-raising banquets to help kids in need; many others host small stands in their main squares selling food and funny playthings like wigs or masks to help people dress up for the occasion.

If anything, this tradition is a lot more than just jokes and pranks, its a way for people to come together and help those in need whilst also spreading joy, laughter and humor across the whole country.

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