Leap Day traditions around the world

Michaela Ramm

Leap Day doesn’t just happen every year.

Feb. 29, otherwise known as Leap Day, was introduced on the Gregorian calendar. It was added because astronomers discovered that it actually takes Earth 365.2421 days to rotate the Sun. Leap Day was added in order to keep the calendar in sync.

Around the world, people celebrate Leap Day in unique ways; however, some cultures have some superstitions about the day.

Women propose to Men: Like Amy Adams in the film “Leap Year,” Feb. 29 is the only day women can propose to their male counterparts. 

Based out of Ireland, legend states that St. Brigid struck a deal with St. Patrick to allow this tradition.

Hiding the bare ring finger: Queen Margaret of Scotland (1070-1093) made it law that any man who refused a marriage proposal on a leap year had to pay fines. In Europe, tradition holds that he would have to buy her 12 pairs of gloves, so she could hide the fact she does not have a ring.

Leap Day babies: According to the BBC, the chances of having a birthday on a Leap Day is one in 1,461. Leap Day babies, otherwise known as “leaplings,” are said by astrologers to have unusual talents.