We celebrate April Fools' Day as a way to have fun and trick our friends and family with harmless untruths said in a very convincing manner. After we get them to buy into our devilish story, we spring them with “April Fools.”

Well, the French have a slightly different take on things...Poisson d'avril.....or April Fish. This quaint custom came to my attention last year and I fired off the story rather incredulously to my friend Isa, a French friend who resides in Montpellier, in the south of France. Yes, it’s true - the sophisticated French have a great sense of humor too... But what of this April Fish?

Well, in researching the story, it appears that up until 1564 under the reign of Charles IX the new year began on March 25th or the first of April. Then the King with the edict of Roussillon shifted the New Year to January 1 of each year.

Until this point traditional family gifting had been done around the New Year or April 1. To show opposition to the calendar shift, a fish was substituted as the "gift" item. A myriad of reasons as to why the fish was selected were given including the zodiac sign of the Fish….Pices or  Poisson...or Catholicism, lent and substituting fish for meat. Over time the real reason was lost in lore but the fun remains. Poisson d’Avril is now a colorful holiday and loads of fun for French residents with a sense of humor.

Mark Stine is a guest writer for Delicious Destinations bringing his perspective on food and culture from around the world. For exquisite gourmet food gifts and gourmet meals delivered to nationally, visit GourmetStation.

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