The year 2024 brings the quadrennial occurrence of an additional day known as Leap Day, observed at the end of February. The astronomical purpose of this event is to align the calendar year with the seasonal year. Since Earth does not complete a full revolution around the sun in 365 days, the extra day every four years helps balance it out. Different parts of the world have added their own twists to the extra hours of sunlight. While some may overlook February 29, many surround the day with superstitions and events.

In Ireland, Bachelor’s Day is celebrated—a day in the year that allows women to break from traditional gender roles and propose marriage to their partners. According to legend, this tradition dates back to the 5th century, originating from a conversation between St. Bridget and St. Patrick. St. Bridget noted that women have to wait exceptionally long for men to propose, leading St. Patrick to declare that women could propose on this one day every four years. If a man refuses a proposal on Leap Day, he is expected to compensate the woman with a kiss or a gift, such as a silk gown or a pair of gloves, as a gesture of apology for declining.

However, Italians refrain from making significant changes on Leap Day due to the perceived bad luck associated with it. This includes decisions such as getting married, starting a new job, or having a child. Leap Day is often regarded as a time of uncertainty and unpredictability, prompting people to delay important milestones until March 1, when luck is believed to be more favorable.

In Russian culture, Leap Day holds a tradition of reconciliation and penance. It is considered an opportune time to mend broken relationships, resolve conflicts, and extend forgiveness to others. This belief stems from the teachings of Russian Orthodox Christianity, which emphasizes the importance of repentance during significant times of renewal. Leap Day is a fresh start, allowing individuals to let go of grudges and begin anew with a clean slate.

Those born on this special day are known as “leapers” or “leaplings,” facing a unique situation since Leap Day occurs only once every four years. In non-leap years, they often celebrate their birthdays on February 28 or March 1. Despite the joy surrounding the occasion, there is a superstition in Scotland that being born on February 29 is unlucky. To counter this perceived bad luck, it is customary to present leaplings with a gift or token of good fortune, such as a family heirloom or a lucky charm.

This day offers a fascinating intersection of science, culture, and tradition. While its purpose is more technical, different parts of the world have instilled this extra day with their unique customs and superstitions. Consider making this Leap Day one to remember by adopting previous traditions or creating your own.