Because 2020 is a Leap Year, that makes Saturday a special day — February 29. Only once every four years do we get an extra day in the month of February. It all has to do with our trip around the sun, as it actually takes slightly longer than 365 days each year to do so. As a result, an extra day is added to the calendar in every year that is divisible by four.
This week, we take a look at five items related to this unusual day on the calendar.
Famous People Born this Day
Approximately 4.1 million people around the world have been born on Feb. 29, although the chances on being born on this day are around one in 1,461. While Feb. 29 is the least common day of birth, there are still several famous people who have been born on this day.
Those born on Leap Day include hockey players Henri Richard, Cam Ward, and Simon Gagne, as well as motivational speaker and author Tony Robbins, and rapper Ja Rule. During common years, Leapers celebrate their birthday on either Feb. 28 or March 1. Some people, however, prefer to celebrate on Feb. 29 exclusively. Jurisdictions around the globe also differ as to the date of legal status (e.g. in the United Kingdom, people turning 18 in a non-Leap Year gain status on March 1, whereas in Taiwan the date is Feb. 28).
Fictional characters who celebrate their birthday on Feb. 29 include Superman, Little Orphan Annie, and Cameron Tucker from the TV show Modern Family.
Traditions, Superstitions, and Observances
In some countries, there is a tradition that allows women to propose marriage to any man they wish on Feb. 29. If the man refuses, he may need to pay a penalty that, depending on the country, might include gloves or even money. “Bachelor’s Day” may have Irish origins, thanks to a legend regarding Saint Patrick and Saint Brigid. This tradition was the premise of 2010 film, Leap Year, starring Amy Adams, Matthew Goode, Adam Scott, and John Lithgow. It was not well received.
There was once a tradition in Aurora, Illinois where women got to take over the city’s various administrative roles. They were then able to arrest and fine eligible bachelors. It was a different time.
In Greece it is considered unlucky to get married during a Leap Year.
Rare Disease Day is also observed on Leap Day (or on Feb. 28 in common years).
Plot Point
The Pirates of Penzance is perhaps best known for its song, 'I am the very model of a modern Major-General,' but it also makes Leap Day an important plot point. In the opera/film, the young Frederic has turned 21 and can now end his pirate apprenticeship and run off with the young Mabel. Unfortunately for Frederic, it is later revealed that he was born on Feb. 29, which means he won’t turn 18 for many, many years.
Party Central
The twin cities of Anthony, Texas and Anthony, New Mexico celebrate Leap Year every four years with a festival and parade. This area is considered to be the “Leap Year Capital of the World.” The idea was the brainchild of Leaper and Anthony resident Mary Ann Brown back in 1988. She suggested creating a Worldwide Leap Year Festival and Worldwide Leap year Birthday Club. Anthony’s Chamber of Commerce agreed and soon the governors of both Texas and New Mexico were on board, too. The idea continues to grow and attracts Leap Year Babies from across the globe.
A Family Tradition
Over in the U.K., the Keogh family has found a way to make Leap Day a family tradition. The Keoghs are in the Guinness Book of World Records for having the most generations born on Feb. 29, with three. Peter Anthony was born on Feb. 29 1940. His son Peter Eric was born on the same day in 1964. Peter’s granddaughter Bethany Wealth followed suit in 1996. A truly remarkable occurrence, given the rarity of anyone being born on Feb. 29!
Enjoy your “extra” day of the year!
