April Fools' Day, celebrated on April 1st, is a widely recognized day of pranks and jokes around the world. However, in Peru, this day does not have a deep-rooted tradition like in other countries. Instead, the equivalent day of mischief in Peru takes place on December 28th, known as "Día de los Santos Inocentes" (Day of the Holy Innocents). Nevertheless, as globalization influences cultures, April Fools' Day has begun to gain traction, especially among younger generations and in digital spaces. But what makes pranking and playful deception special in Peru, and how can travelers experience this lighthearted side of the culture?
History, Unique Traditions, and Travel Pranks to Try!
What is April Fools' Day and How Did It Start?
 | April Fools' Day, celebrated every April 1st, is a day dedicated to practical jokes and hoaxes. But where did it originate? The most common theory traces it back to 16th-century France, when the calendar switched from the Julian to the Gregorian system, moving New Year’s celebrations from April 1st to January 1st. Many people resisted the change or were simply unaware of it, so they continued celebrating in April. Others began playing tricks on them, calling them “April Fools” and so the tradition was born. Other historians link April Fools' Day to ancient Roman festivals, such as Hilaria, where people disguised themselves and played tricks on one another. Regardless of its true origins, the celebration has spread worldwide, with each country adding its own twist. |
How is April Fools' Day Celebrated Around the World?
Different cultures have adapted April Fools' Day in unique ways:
France & Italy: Known as "Poisson d'Avril" (April Fish), people stick paper fish on others' backs.
Scotland: Celebrated over two days, the second day is dedicated entirely to butt-related pranks (yes, you read that right!).
Spain & Latin America: Instead of April 1st, a similar tradition exists on December 28th, called Día de los Santos Inocentes.
April Fools' Day and Its Peruvian Counterpart
While April 1st is often marked by hoaxes and fake news in many countries, Peruvians historically engage in pranks during December 28th, a day originally meant to commemorate the biblical story of King Herod's massacre of innocent children. Over time, it evolved into a lighthearted day of jokes, where media outlets publish fake stories, and friends trick each other for fun. If you're visiting Peru around April, you may not find widespread pranking, but you will notice a growing acceptance of the global April Fools' trend in social media and urban areas.
How Peruvians Celebrate Pranks and Humor
Media and Online Hoaxes: Some local websites and social media pages take advantage of April 1st to post fake news and playful pranks, similar to their tradition in December.
Tourist Pranks & Experiences: Some hotels, restaurants, and even tour agencies may participate in lighthearted jokes, offering funny twists to experiences.
Cultural Influence from Travelers: The rise of international tourists and expats in Peru has made April Fools' Day more recognized, especially in major cities like Lima and Cusco.
Does Peru Celebrate April Fools' Day?
Peru doesn't officially celebrate April Fools' Day like other countries. However, because of its strong Spanish influence, Día de los Santos Inocentes (December 28th) is when Peruvians play pranks.
On this day, Peruvian newspapers publish fake news articles, TV stations broadcast hoaxes, and people try to trick their friends and family into believing ridiculous stories. If you fall for one, the trickster yells "¡Inocente palomita!", which loosely translates to "You innocent little dove!".
While Peruvians don't traditionally prank each other on April 1st, travelers and expats who follow international customs have started bringing the tradition to major tourist areas like Cusco, Lima, and Arequipa.
Bonus: Religious and Cultural Events in April
If you visit Peru in April, you’ll also witness important religious festivities:
- Semana Santa in Ayacucho: The most spectacular Holy Week celebration in Peru, with elaborate processions and fireworks.
- Lord of the Tremors (Cusco): A powerful Andean-Catholic tradition where a sacred statue of Christ is paraded through the city.
- Anniversary of Amantaní Island (Lake Titicaca): Experience authentic indigenous culture with music, dance, and traditional homestays.
Famous Travel Pranks in History
April Fools' Day pranks aren't just for friends and family—some have even been pulled off on travelers! Here are some of the most legendary travel-related hoaxes:
1. The Sydney Iceberg Hoax (1978, Australia)
A businessman towed a fake iceberg into Sydney Harbour, convincing thousands that he had brought it from Antarctica to provide fresh water.
2. Big Ben Goes Digital (1980, UK)
The BBC reported that London's famous Big Ben would be switched to a digital clock, causing massive outrage among traditionalists.
3. Flying Penguins (2008, BBC)
The BBC released a documentary claiming that penguins in Antarctica had evolved to fly. Millions believed it until they realized the date: April 1st!
April Fools' Day Pranks for Travelers
Planning a trip? Make your adventure even more memorable with these lighthearted, harmless pranks to play on your travel buddies. These playful tricks are guaranteed to bring laughter without causing any stress or ruining the trip!
1. Fake “Customs Form”
Create a fake customs declaration asking for absurd items like “number of alpacas owned” or “chocolate consumption limit exceeded.” Hand it to your friend at the airport and watch their reaction!
2. The “Closed Attraction” Trick
Before heading to a famous site like Machu Picchu, tell your travel group that the government has just closed it for renovations. Bonus points if you keep a straight face while they panic.
3. Fake Hotel Check-Out Time
Move the hotel alarm clock forward by two hours and tell your travel buddy the check-out time is 6 AM instead of 8 AM. Watch them scramble to pack!
4. The “You Forgot Your Passport” Prank
Pretend to check your bag at the airport and then suddenly exclaim, “Wait… where’s your passport?!” (Only do this if you're sure they actually have it!).
5. Pranks Inspired by Peruvian Culture
While April Fools' Day is not an official tradition in Peru, here are some prank ideas with a local twist:
- "Pisco is Chilean": Tell a Peruvian that a new study has confirmed that pisco actually belongs to Chile. Watch their reaction! (For brave pranksters only).
- Andean Legends Come to Life: If you're in Cusco or the Amazon, tell your friends you saw a "Pishtaco" (a mythical Andean vampire) or a "Yacuruna" (a water spirit) and enjoy their reaction.
6. Tourist Destination Pranks
Make the most of your trip by playing harmless pranks in iconic locations:
- At Machu Picchu: Tell your group that a newly discovered mountain has even better views than Huayna Picchu but has a five-year waiting list.
- In the Amazon: Claim that a new mosquito repellent works using ultrasonic sounds and get everyone to try and "hear" it.
- At San Pedro Market (Cusco): Ask for the famous "instant-effect coca leaf tea" and act shocked when you drink it.
April Fools' Day is a fun excuse to add humor to your travels, whether you’re visiting Peru’s incredible landscapes or simply planning a vacation with friends.
If you’re looking for expertly planned tours that mix adventure, culture, and fun, Andean Travel Experience can help you design the perfect itinerary no pranks included (unless you want them!).