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Leap Year
Leap Year
Leap year day—Feb 29—only happens once every four years!
Words by Lifestyle Staff
The origin of leap years dates back to 46 B.C., at the time of Julius Caesar’s reign as Roman emperor. He decided that the year 46 B.C. would be 445 days long, rather than 365 days long. Caesar then made a year with 365.25 days (called the Julian calendar) which added a leap year every four years. February now has 29 days every four years, rather than 28 to compensate for the fact that a normal year is shorter than a tropical year by about 6 hours.
Facts
Chances of being born on the 29th of February during a Leap year is 1 in 1,500.
People born on a leap day are called “leaplings” or “leapers.”
A tradition in some cultures says that women may propose to men on this day—and men may not refuse. In Finland, the man owes the woman enough fabric for a skirt, and in Denmark, the man declining must bring the woman a dozen pairs of gloves.
February 29 isn’t technically a legal day.
Celebration
Time Capsule
Create a leap year time capsule filled with mementos, photos, and notes. Open it on the next leap year to reminisce and see how things have changed.
Learn Something New
Dedicate the extra day to learning a new skill or hobby. It could be a cooking class, art workshop, or any other activity you've been meaning to try.
Travel Adventure
Plan a spontaneous getaway or a day trip to explore a new place. Use the extra day to embark on a travel adventure.
Charitable Acts
Spend the day giving back to the community. Volunteer at a local charity or organize a community service project with friends.
Leap Year Movie Marathon
Host a movie marathon featuring films with leap year themes, such as “Leap Year” or movies that involve time travel.
Leap Year Resolutions
Set special leap year resolutions for yourself. Consider goals that you can achieve within the next four years.
