Did You Know?
There are a host of events that have happened in April across the years, here are some you may not be aware of.
Before we look at a few, why is April called April?
The origins of the use of the word April are unclear. Some historians believe that it stems from the Latin words,”aperire” to open, or “apricus” sunny, as April is regarded as the month of sun and growth in the northern hemisphere. Another explanation is that the word April goes back to Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love, beauty and procreation.
Here are some interesting dates and events that happen in April and their links to history:
Of course we cannot forget April Fools’ Day, but what is its origin?
Hilaria in Ancient Rome
Historians have also linked April Fools’ Day to festivals such as Hilaria (Latin for joyful), which was celebrated in ancient Rome at the end of March by followers of the cult of Cybele. It involved people dressing up in disguises and mocking fellow citizens and even magistrates and was said to be inspired by the Egyptian legend of Isis, Osiris and Seth. The world Hilaria is a link to the word Hilarious
2nd April 2024
Held on or around Hans Christian Andersen’s birthday, which is celebrated to inspire a love of reading and to call attention to children’s books.
Here is one date for the children!
Unicorn Day
9th April 2024
A day on which to celebrate the most popular mythical creature ever, which is also the symbol of Scotland.
22nd April to 30th April 2024
Passover, or Pesach, is the major Jewish spring festival which commemorates the liberation of the Israelites from Egyptian slavery, lasting eight days (seven in Israel). It is also known as Chag Hamotzi, the Feast of Unleavened Bread.
Earth Day
22nd April 2024
Worldwide event to raise awareness of the environmental issues which face the whole of planet Earth. The Earth Day organisation campaigns on environmental issues worldwide and promotes sustainability and reducing pollution.
St. George’s Day
23rd April 2024
The annual celebration of England’s patron saint is not a national holiday in England, however, St. George’s Day is celebrated by flying the English flag and by taking part in traditional English activities such as Morris dancing.
National Shakespeare Day
23rd April 2024
23rd April was both Shakespeare’s birthday and date of his death. Celebrations in honour of the bard are held in his hometown of Stratford-upon-Avon and around the UK.
International Jazz Day
30th Apr 2024
International Jazz Day brings together communities, schools, artists, historians, academics and jazz enthusiasts all over the world to celebrate and learn about jazz and its roots, future and impact.
The Graham Agency