Leap Day
This holiday is featured in the Obscure Holiday Calendar app with emoji-style visuals, reminders, and daily fun facts.
Overview
Leap Day, observed on February 29th, is an additional day inserted into the calendar every four years during a Leap Year. This intercalation ensures that the calendar year remains synchronized with the astronomical or tropical year, which is approximately 365.2425 days long, preventing a gradual drift of seasons and holidays over time.
Observed each year on February 29, Leap Day invites people to pause, share the story, and bring a little themed joy to their day.
Origin and story
Individuals born on February 29 are often referred to as 'leaplings' or 'leapers.'
Historically, Leap Day was associated with a tradition, sometimes called 'Ladies' Privilege' or 'Bachelor's Day,' where women were 'permitted' to propose marriage to men. This custom is sometimes linked to an old Irish legend involving St. Bridget and St. Patrick.
Quick facts
- DateFebruary 29
- TypeCultural / community observance
- Great forFriends, Families, Classrooms, Teams
Also on this date
Ways to observe
- Learn why leap years keep the calendar aligned with Earth's orbit.
- Try something new with the extra day.
- Finish a task you have postponed.
- Start a small Leap Day tradition.
- Learn about Leap Day folklore and traditions.
- See how leap-year birthdays are celebrated.
Fun facts
- A leap year occurs every four years, with exceptions for century years unless divisible by 400.
Sources and attribution
Leap Year Explained (Encyclopaedia Britannica)
External links may lead to third-party websites.
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FAQ
- When is Leap Day?
- It is observed on February 29 each year.
- What is Leap Day?
- Leap Day, observed on February 29, is an additional day inserted into the calendar every four years during a Leap Year. This intercalation ensures that the calendar year remains synchronized with the astronomical or tropical year, which is approximately 365.2425 days long, preventing a gradual drift of seasons and holidays over time.
- How do people observe Leap Day?
- Learn why leap years exist, try something new, or start a small tradition.
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