How Should We Observe April Fool’s Day During COVID-19 Epidemic?

Over the past two decades, April fool’s pranks have been a mainstay of brands around the world. For example, a Google gag last year claimed the firm had released a file that would automatically clean your phone if you spilled spaghetti sauce, dirt or whatever on its surface.

But this year — in the wake of COVID-19 — Google, which typically spends a big chunk of money on April fools tricks, has decided to opt out. (Wise choice.) Yet, Parade, an entertainment magazine, today has tactlessly printed a list of “60 Outrageous April Fool’s Day Pranks” that is says will show off your ‘inner-jokester.’

Among the tasteless pranks that Parade recommends is, at the office, to put tape under a coworker’s computer mouse, and “watch them try to figure out why it’s not working!” (Many of the people who weren’t among the millions of Americans who have — without warning — become unemployed, are teleworking).

In another ill-thought prank, Parade recommends taping fake roaches inside a lampshade, with the light on, “making everyone immediately feel creepy-crawly.” Parade helpful provides a link that shows where to buy fake roaches. All this as more than 2,800 Americans have died from COVID-19, and another 174,000 Americans have been infected with the disease.

With April Fool’s Day just around the corner, how do you recommend you observe the custom? I’m interested in hearing your ideas.