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Random Facts About Leap Day

By February 28, 2020March 4th, 2020Student Community

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It’s the moment we’ve been waiting for. Four years have come and gone, and we finally have an extra day of the year to enjoy! But what’s so great about Leap Day? We’ve got some random facts about the day to at least entertain you, if not, inspire you to do something great this February 29.

1. Leap Day is a day to get engaged…or get some gloves

Irish tradition (and at some points in history, law) states that every February 29, women can propose to a man that day, and the man has to accept. If he refuses, he must buy you a pair of silk gloves. So either way, leap day is a win for the ladies.

Of course, there is a slight catch. For any woman planning to propose, she must wear something scarlet colored to give guys proper warning.

2. Or, depending on your view, not get married this year

Greek and few other cultures, on the other hand, believes the entire year is bad luck to get married. So the silk gloves might be a better option after all!

3. Leaplings have special talents 

Leaplings, or people born on February 29, are believed by astrologers and some cultures to have special talents, ranging from burping the alphabet to being an accomplished piano player. But one thing they don’t have: A set birthday every year. In fact, country’s laws vary as to when important birthdays like the 18th, 21st actually occur for leaplings–some say February 28, others make them wait until March 1 to celebrate.

4. But if you’re not a leapling,  you can still get candy

If you’ve ever watched the TV series “30 Rock,” you’ve probably already heard of Leap Day William. Once ever four years, the old man with gills, a blue suit and top hat named Leap Day William emerges from the Mariana Trench, the deepest part of the sea, and trades tears for candy.

5. Unless you don’t wear blue and yellow, then you get kicked and poked

There is a catch. If you don’t wear blue and yellow, you don’t any candy and risk getting either kicked, poked in the eye or have your hair pulled. It just might be worse than a pinch on St. Patrick’s Day.

6. But more importantly, it’s a day to take chances

Over the many years, leap day has become known as a day to, well, take a leap. After all, it only comes once every four years, so don’t miss your opportunity to take chances and try something you normally wouldn’t. Try a new restaurant, go to a new place or enjoy relaxing. Whatever you do, make the most of this February 29!

  • How do you plan to spend your Leap Day? Share with us in the comments below!

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