De Efteling is a fantasy theme park in the Netherlands. Roller coasters at the park normally have age and height restrictions for safety purposes. But De Efteling found a solution for even the smallest visitors, announcing: “We gaan baby’s toelaten in de Python (We will allow baby’s into the Python)”  The Python is one of the Park’s fastest rollercoasters, and the move would make the park the first in teh world to allow babies on a roller-coaster.

In a Youtube, video Efteling announced that the 37-year old Python was due a renovation. And with this opportunity, they decided to modify the ride to accommodate all ages – including babies, by adding Baby seats. The baby seats were developed in partnership with Maxi-Cosi. The seats were subjected to crash-dummy testing and researchers found that the child experiences as much force in the ride as while playing regularly, thus being completely safe. The seats were even custom painted to match the ride.

The project designer said that the Python is completely safe and fun and leaves an everlasting impression, even at such a young age. And that the thing park employees look forward to most is ‘happy and wonderful little faces speeding along at 3g forces!’”

Each year, Stand-Up Strategist selects, ranks, and celebrates the best corporate April Fools campaigns worldwide – based on their potential to impact corporate strategy and culture.

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Ranking Criteria

Entertainment Value – How universally funny, original and clever is the underlying concept? To what extent does it make you laugh, ponder, and make you want to share it with others?

Quality of Execution – How well is the underlying concept presented, what is the level of execution, attention to detail and overall campaign quality?

Opportunistic Absurdity – To what extent does the underlying concept actually capture the seed of a new business idea or potential market offering?

Brand Relevance – To what extent is the underlying concept consistent with, and can help propel the brand essence and market positioning of the company?

Cultural Impact – To what extent can the underlying concept serve to unify and align staff around optimal strategy and culture?