The Best Hilarious Pranks for Jokesters of Every Age

The Best Hilarious Pranks for Jokesters of Every Age

  • Hilarious Practical Jokes for Grown-Ups

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  • Designed for Children

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  • For Friends

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  • At Home

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  • Prank Phone Calls

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  • Playful April Fools’ Tricks

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  • Video

This piece was collaboratively written by Aly Rusciano, a staff writer at wikiHow. Aly Rusciano is a Creative Writer residing near Nashville, Tennessee. With more than a decade of experience, she has excelled in creative, academic, and professional writing. Her work has earned national recognition in the Sigma Tau Delta Rectangle and has appeared in publications such as Blue Marble Review, The Sunshine Review, PopMatters, and Cathartic Literary Magazine. Aly holds a BA in English from The University of Tennessee at Martin, specializing in Creative Writing with a minor in Theatre.

This article includes 12 references, all listed at the end of the page.

The facts in this article have been verified to guarantee the correctness of all referenced information and to validate the credibility of its sources.

This piece has been read by 2,813 individuals.

Looking to play a joke on a friend or family member? You’re in the perfect spot! We’ve gathered a collection of the funniest and most playful pranks for April Fools’ Day, over the phone, or anytime. These tricks will definitely surprise, baffle, and (above all) have everyone in stitches. Scroll down to discover the most amusing pranks you can try next.

The Most Enjoyable, Safe, and Simple Pranks to Pull

  1. Bubbling Toilet:Hide snap fireworks beneath a friend’s toilet seat.
  2. Tiny Ducks:Scatter small rubber ducks in various spots throughout someone’s house.
  3. Frosted Bugs:Embed plastic bugs inside ice cubes by freezing them, then add the cubes to beverages for a surprising twist.
  4. Defective Shampoo:Put plastic wrap beneath the lid of another person’s shampoo container.
  5. “I’m occupied.”Call a friend on Facetime—when they answer, tell them, “I’m occupied right now; can I get back to you later?”

Hilarious Practical Jokes for Grown-Ups

  1. Remove all the hand sanitizer from the bottle. Next, pour a . Keep the bottle uncapped overnight to let the glue harden. The following day, reattach the cap and set the “hand sanitizer” out for others. They’ll be completely puzzled when nothing dispenses![1]

    • When using a pump hand sanitizer, ensure the pump top is reinserted into the bottle to allow the glue to set properly around it.

  2. 2
    Leftover Soap PrankGot a roommate or family member who prefers bar soap? This prank is ideal for them! Let their most-used soap dry completely. Next, coat it with clear nail polish. When they attempt to use it later, no lather will form, leaving them completely baffled.[2]
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  3. The next time you’re in the passenger seat of a friend or family member’s vehicle, crank up the temperature. Adjust it when they’re preoccupied and not paying attention, or increase it before they start the engine.[3]
  4. 4
    Pranking with Mailing ListsWant to leave a friend utterly baffled? Sign them up for a random mailing list so they receive endless junk mail from some obscure store or business. It’s the perfect prank that keeps delivering laughs![4]
  5. Play a hilarious trick on a friend, roommate, or relative by hiding snap fireworks beneath their toilet seat. This simple joke is harmless and won’t create any serious mess. Just raise the seat and position several snaps around the edge. Carefully lower the seat back down. The unsuspecting victim will get a startling shock the next time they visit the bathroom![5]

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  • When using a pump hand sanitizer, ensure the pump top is reinserted into the bottle to allow the glue to solidify around it.

Silly Jokes for Children

  1. Tell your prank target you’ve prepared vanilla pudding for them to taste. They’ll eagerly anticipate a sweet dessert, but instead, you’re giving them a generous portion of mayonnaise. Dish out a hearty spoonful and enjoy their reaction as they recoil from the surprising savory spread.[6]

    • Mix things up by using a vacant mayo container for vanilla pudding or repurposing an empty pudding cup to hold mayo.
    • This joke works best with larger gatherings of children.
  2. 2
    The Balloon Room Surprise PrankBring joy and laughter to any child with this lighthearted prank. Simply inflate several balloons and scatter them across their room. When they open the door, they’ll be surprised by an unexpected burst of excitement![7]
  3. Open two cereal boxes and swap the inner bags, placing each cereal into the opposite box. When a child pours a bowl, they’ll be completely surprised by the mix-up![8]
  4. 4
    Spider Scare PrankSuspend a fake plastic spider using a length of fishing line. When the target of the prank is relaxed or distracted, toss the spider toward them while holding the line firmly. Wiggle the spider to mimic realistic movement for maximum effect.[9]
  5. Surprise a child by slipping a rubber snake into their lunchbox or backpack for a fun scare. They might get a little startled at first, but they’ll end up with a cool toy to enjoy afterward![10]
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  • Change things up by using a vacant mayo container to hold vanilla pudding or repurposing an empty pudding cup for mayo.
  • This joke is ideal for larger gatherings of children.

Hilarious Jokes to Play on Your Friends

  1. Bake a tasty batch of cookies…with an unexpected twist! Swap the sugar in the cookie recipe for salt. It’s bound to surprise everyone!

    • For a surprising twist, coat cookie dough balls with salt rather than cinnamon or sugar to create a contrasting bitter flavor.[11]
  2. 2
    The Lemon Juice Practical JokeWithout your friend noticing, add a splash of lemon juice to their water or beverage. The moment they take a drink, they’ll be in for a sour surprise![12]

    • Ensure your friend isn’t allergic to lemons before attempting this prank.
  3. This prank requires some advance preparation. The evening prior, put a bowl filled with milk and cereal into the freezer. The next morning, kindly offer to prepare breakfast for your target. When they aren’t paying attention, retrieve the frozen bowl and enjoy their reaction as they attempt to eat a rock-hard cereal meal![13]
  4. 4
    Mischievous Mini Ducks TrickPurchase a large quantity of and secretly stash them throughout a family member or friend’s house. Tuck them into closets, drawers, pockets—anywhere you can think of! They’ll keep discovering these little ducks for weeks to come.
  5. Adjust the clocks of a friend or family member to trick them into believing they’re behind schedule. This playful joke works especially well during a sleepover. Simply move the clocks forward by an hour when they’re unaware—ideally while they’re sleeping.[14]

    • Ensure the person you’re pranking has no urgent commitments on the day of the joke. Keep in mind that pranks should be lighthearted, not mean-spirited.
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  • For a surprising bitter flavor, try coating balls of cookie dough with salt rather than cinnamon or sugar.[11]
  • Before attempting this joke, ensure your friend isn’t allergic to lemons.
  • Ensure the person you’re pranking has no urgent commitments on the day of the joke. Keep in mind that pranks are meant to be enjoyable, not mean-spirited.

Hilarious Practical Jokes to Play Around the House

  1. This joke is easy to pull off, incredibly funny, and a great long-game gag. Print multiple images of yourself or a beloved public figure. Gradually place them over existing family pictures around your home, beginning with smaller ones and progressing to larger frames. Continue the prank until the target finally catches on![15]
  2. 2
    Leaky Faucet PrankThis prank works great if your home has a detached sink sprayer nozzle. Just secure a rubber band around the handle or use tape to keep it fixed in the “on” position. When someone turns the water on next, they’ll get a surprise splash to the face![16]
  3. Want to drive a friend or family member crazy? While they’re away, stash a few in their house. Every now and then, a chirping sound will erupt, sending them on a frantic hunt for the mysterious “cricket” making the noise.
  4. 4
    Prank with Non-Functional ShampooLoosen the cap of your target’s preferred shampoo. Cover the opening with plastic wrap, trim off the extra material, and secure the lid again. As they attempt to use it during their shower, they’ll grow frustrated when the bottle refuses to dispense any product.[17]
  5. This prank is ideal for remote workers or those who frequently use a computer. Place a piece of tape over the sensor on the underside of their mouse. When they attempt to use it, they’ll need to figure out why it suddenly stopped functioning.[18]

    • Leave a note to brighten their day, such as, “Caught you! Hope your day is amazing!” or “The prank battle begins. Starting with something simple ;)”
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  • Leave a cheerful note to brighten their day, such as, “Caught you! Hope your day is amazing!” or “The prank battle begins. Starting simple ;)”

  1. Trick your friend or group chat by making them believe you’re typing when you’re actually not. Share a GIF of the typing indicator dots that show up when someone is composing a message. They’ll be left puzzled, convinced you’re in the middle of writing something lengthy.[19]
  2. 2
    Prank Involving Song LyricsConfuse your favorite person with this playful trick! Choose a song you love, then text them the lyrics as if you’re engaged in an actual chat. Continue replying with song lines until they finally figure it out.[20]

    • Consider adding tracks such as “I’m Just Ken” from the Barbie movie, “Call Me Maybe” by Carly Rae Jepsen, and “Hello” by Adele to your playlist.
  3. Convince a friend they unknowingly enrolled in a subscription plan. Act as an automated messaging system bombarding them with promotional deals and discounts. To maximize the effect, conceal your phone number or contact them from an unfamiliar number. For instance, send a message like this:[21]

    • “Welcome to Puppy Facts! Starting now, you’ll get fun puppy trivia delivered daily. Woof woof 🐶 Reply YES for an extra fact. Text STOP to opt out.”
  4. 4
    The Social Media Fake Scar PrankText a friend acting shocked about their recent Instagram, Snapchat, or Facebook post. Play along to watch them freak out—they might even suspect their account was hacked! The exchange could go something like this:[22]

    • You:WOW, your post is mind-blowing! 😲
      Them:Which post are you referring to? I haven’t shared anything.
      You:Were you actually planning to share that??
      Them:Post what now?!
      You:People keep messaging me nonstop about this.
  5. Pretend you don’t recognize who’s messaging you to drive a friend crazy. If they text you, respond with things like “Who is this?” “Have we met?” or “Are you certain you’ve got the correct number?”
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  • Consider adding tracks such as “I’m Just Ken” from the Barbie movie, “Call Me Maybe” by Carly Rae Jepsen, and “Hello” by Adele to your playlist.
  • “Welcome to Puppy Facts! Starting now, you’ll get fun daily puppy tidings! Woof woof 🐶 Reply YES for an extra fact. Text STOP to cancel your subscription.”
  • You:OMG, your post is mind-blowing! 🤯
    Them:Which post? I haven’t shared anything.
    You:Were you intending to share that??
    Them:Post what did you say?!
    You:People keep messaging me nonstop about it

Hilarious Phone Call Practical Jokes

  1. Surprise a special someone by tricking them into believing they’ve scored an amazing reward with this timeless joke. Mask your caller ID and alter your voice. Next, inform your friend they’ve won a contest for event passes or a massive jackpot. Explain that they need to solve a quiz to claim the prize, then throw an impossibly difficult question their way—one they’re sure to get wrong.[23]

    • Hide your phone number during prank calls by entering *67 before dialing the desired number.
    • Be aware that prank-calling could violate local laws. Verify your state regulations before placing a call, and ensure you respect others’ time.
  2. 2
    You Pranked Me by CallingPhone a friend, and once they pick up, inquire, “Who’s on the line?” If they question why you dialed them, play along by saying, “Wait, you’re the one who called me, so…”[24]
  3. Call your closest friend on FaceTime. As soon as they pick up, quickly say, “I’m swamped right now. Can I talk to you later?” Then, end the call. They’ll be totally stunned![25]
  4. 4
    It’s Over! PrankDial a random phone number (remember to hide your caller ID). Once the person picks up, act as if you’re their partner ending the relationship. Choose between a heartbroken or furious tone—this is your chance to flex your improvisation talents!
  5. Call up a friend and prepare to put on a performance! Act as if you’re stuck in a public bathroom with no toilet paper and panic about what to do next. Find out if they’d be kind enough to rescue you—it’s the ultimate friendship test!
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  • Hide your phone number during prank calls by entering *67 before the number you dial.
  • Be aware that prank-calling could violate local laws. Review your state’s regulations before placing a call, and always consider others’ time and privacy.

Playful April Fools’ Day Jokes

  1. Surprise your friends and family by passing off a hated veggie as tasty cake pops! Simply spear Brussels sprouts on sticks, dip them in chocolate, and finish with a sprinkle topping. Then, watch their reactions as they take a bite.[26]
  2. 2
    Drive-By Honk and Greeting PrankStick a sign on the rear of a friend’s vehicle with the message, “Honk and wave—April Fools’ joke!” While your friend is driving, they’ll be baffled by the sudden kindness from strangers.[27]
  3. Combine M&M’s, Skittles, and Reese’s Pieces in a single bowl. Then, let unsuspecting people try the mix. This trick works well whether you’re at home or in the office.[28]

    • Ensure that nobody is allergic to the mixed candies before carrying out this prank.
  4. 4
    Frozen Insect PrankFill an ice tray with water and add a few . Allow the ice to freeze. Once ready, place the cubes into your victims’ drinks to observe their reactions![29]
  5. Do you have several children? Are they deep sleepers? In that case, swap them while they’re asleep! Move each child to a separate bed during the night so they’ll be confused when they wake up.[30]

    • No one understands your children like you do, so attempt this prank only if you’re confident they’ll enjoy it rather than be frightened.
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  • Before carrying out this prank, confirm that no one is allergic to the mixed candies.
  • No one understands your children like you do, so attempt this prank only if you’re confident they’ll enjoy it rather than be frightened.

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References

  1. ↑ https://www.lovetoknow.com/parenting/teens/harmless-funny-pranks-do-friends-adults
  2. ↑ https://www.lovetoknow.com/parenting/teens/harmless-funny-pranks-do-friends-adults
  3. ↑ https://www.lovetoknow.com/parenting/teens/harmless-funny-pranks-do-friends-adults
  4. ↑ https://mashable.com/article/easy-pranks
  5. ↑ https://dyeclan.com/miscellaneous/practicaljokes/
  6. ↑ https://www.lovetoknow.com/parenting/teens/harmless-funny-pranks-do-friends-adults
  7. ↑ https://www.lovetoknow.com/parenting/teens/harmless-funny-pranks-do-friends-adults
  8. ↑ https://montanahomesteader.com/easy-fun-and-harmless-pranks-for-kids/
  9. ↑ https://www.lovetoknow.com/parenting/teens/harmless-funny-pranks-do-friends-adults
  1. ↑ https://mashable.com/article/easy-pranks
  2. ↑ https://www.lovetoknow.com/parenting/teens/harmless-funny-pranks-do-friends-adults
  3. ↑ https://www.lovetoknow.com/parenting/teens/harmless-funny-pranks-do-friends-adults
  4. ↑ https://www.natgeokids.com/uk/discover/history/general-history/april-fools-pranks/
  5. ↑ https://dyeclan.com/miscellaneous/practicaljokes/
  6. ↑ https://mashable.com/article/easy-pranks
  7. ↑ https://dyeclan.com/miscellaneous/practicaljokes/
  8. ↑ https://mashable.com/article/easy-pranks
  9. ↑ https://mashable.com/article/easy-pranks
  10. ↑ https://parade.com/984978/kelseypelzer/april-fools-pranks/
  11. ↑
  12. ↑
  13. ↑
  14. ↑ https://www.seventeen.com/celebrity/music/a28004775/funny-prank-call-ideas/
  15. ↑ https://www.seventeen.com/celebrity/music/a28004775/funny-prank-call-ideas/
  16. ↑ https://www.seventeen.com/celebrity/music/a28004775/funny-prank-call-ideas/
  17. ↑ https://parade.com/984978/kelseypelzer/april-fools-pranks/
  18. ↑ https://parade.com/984978/kelseypelzer/april-fools-pranks/
  19. ↑ https://parade.com/984978/kelseypelzer/april-fools-pranks/
  20. ↑ https://www.today.com/life/holidays/april-fools-pranks-rcna75932
  21. ↑ https://www.today.com/life/holidays/april-fools-pranks-rcna75932

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