Not a prank: April Fools’ Day is happening during Mercury Retrograde

April Fools’ Day is gonna feel extra real this year, thanks to the planet Mercury. The little planet is going retrograde on March 22nd for three weeks, which means it will definitely affect all the shenanigans happening on April 1st.

When Mercury is in retrograde, you can expect delays in all things related to communication, technology, and travel. Miscommunication is always a big deal at this time, but with Mercury going backwards in Aries, giving and receiving any mixed signals are grounds for, like, war. (Or at least a big blowout.) That’s because Aries are known for being rash, impatient, and sometimes even a bit childish when they don’t get what they want, when they want it. Mercury Retrograde in Aries will only enhance these qualities, which is why it’s extra important for us to think before we speak, hold back on any impulsiveness, and to take things nice and slooooooowly.

However, April Fools’ Day is going to throw a monkey wrench into those plans.

As most of you know, on April 1st, it’s pretty much tradition to pull fun pranks on friends and colleagues, and to even tell elaborate stories. However, with Mercury Retrograde, it’s possible that well-meaning hoaxes could totally get out of hand. In fact, don’t be surprised if “fake news” spreads like wildfire and ends up gaining traction in the media. And because everyone’s so on edge, your little joke could actually make a lot of people lash out rather than LOL.

Ugh.

It’s not that you can’t or shouldn’t celebrate April Fools’ Day, but it’s important to keep in mind that some people just aren’t in a playful place right now. It’s not personal — it’s written the stars ’tis all.

In other words, keep things low-key and save the major pranks for next year.