Geoffrey Chaucer‘s The Canterbury Tales (1392) contains the first
recorded association between April 1 and foolishness. The custom
of setting aside a day for the playing of harmless pranks upon one’s 
family and friends is recognized everywhere.

PUNXSUTAWNEY, Pa. (AP) — The handlers of Pennsylvania’s
most famous groundhog, Punxsutawney Phil, say the furry rodent
has failed to see his shadow, meaning means he’s "predicted" an
early spring.

Members of the top hat-wearing Inner Circle announced the "forecast"
at sunrise, just before 7:30 a.m. (ET) Tuesday.