While much of the world is busy planning elaborate pranks for April Fools’ Day today, you might notice things are relatively quiet here in Mexico. If you are visiting us or studying Spanish at Ideal Spanish Mexico, you might be wondering: “Don’t Mexicans like a good joke?”

The answer is a resounding yes—we just have a different date for it!

The Mexican Counterpart: December 28th

In Mexico and throughout Latin America, the day for pranks, hoaxes, and lighthearted trickery is December 28th, known as El Día de los Santos Inocentes (Holy Innocents’ Day).

While the modern celebration is full of laughter, its origins are surprisingly somber. The day traditionally commemorates the biblical story of King Herod, who ordered the execution of all male children under the age of two in Bethlehem in an attempt to eliminate the infant Jesus.

Over centuries, the narrative shifted. The “Innocents” became associated with the “naive” or “gullible,” and the day evolved into a time to play harmless tricks on the “innocent” people around you.

“Innocent Little Dove…”

The most important rule on December 28th in Mexico is: Do not lend anyone money or jewelry. If you fall for a trick or lend something to a friend on this day, they are technically allowed to keep it (temporarily!) while reciting this traditional verse:

“Inocente palomita que te dejaste engañar, sabiendo que en este día nada se debe prestar.”

(Innocent little dove, you let yourself be Fooled, knowing that on this day, nothing should be lent.)

From “fake” news stories in major newspapers to friends telling you they’ve won the lottery, the spirit of the day is very much like the April 1st traditions you might be used to.

Happy April Fools’ to Our International Friends!

Even though we save our best pranks for December, we didn’t want to miss the chance to join the fun today.

To all our students, friends, and followers currently in the U.S., Canada, the UK, and beyond: We wish you a day full of laughter and harmless fun! May your coffee not be replaced with salt and your “kick me” signs be few and far between.

Interested in learning more about Mexican culture while mastering the Spanish language? Join us at Ideal Spanish Mexico and discover the rich traditions that make our country so unique. Whether it’s April or December, there is always something fascinating to learn!

¡Feliz April Fools’ Day!