The Fish of Fortune: Celebrating Poisson d’Avril in France

Among the traditions we explore on this blog, few are as delightfully peculiar as the French celebration of April 1st—Poisson d’Avril or “April Fish.” On this day, mischievous spirits awaken, inspiring young and old to craft paper fish and stealthily affix them to unsuspecting backs. A giggle follows as the victim is greeted with cries of “Poisson d’Avril!”—a joyful proclamation of prankish triumph.

Why the fish?

Poisson d’avril, France's distinctive version of April Fools' Day, is rooted in centuries of tradition. It traces its origins to the late 16th century, following the switch from the Julian to the Gregorian calendar, which shifted New Year’s Day from April 1st to January 1st. Those who missed the news of the change became the subjects of jokes, known as "April Fish."

Because April 1 usually occurs during Lent, a time when Christians often ate fish instead of meat, small gifts of fish would be given to mark the holiday.

While the prank originally consisted of hooking a small fish to an unsuspecting person’s back, the current practice uses paper fish, a playful reminder of this long-standing French tradition.

Today, the holiday remains a lively occasion. The Poisson d’Avril reminds us that laughter, like fortune, often comes when we least expect it, and that life’s absurdities are worth celebrating, even with a paper fish.

Happy 1 April from The House of Good Fortune!

“Des fleurs pour vous charmer, Mon coeur pour vous aimer!”

Bonheur d’Avril: Ce gros poisson plein de promesses; ponte la chance et la tendresse

The old postcards above illustrate the connection between fish, good luck and the first of April traditions in France. They were purchased in Paris at the Marches les Puces de St. Ouen. Note the four-leaf clover, horseshoe, roses and pansies.