This year is a leap year and that means an extra day in February. February 29 comes only once every 4th year. This extra day is designed to ensure the calendar stays current with the seasons of the year. Over the centuries since it was introduced there have been some traditions created to help mark this day, including birthday celebrations and a festival in Anthony, Texas.

Unusual Traditions In some countries Leap Day is a traditional day for women to propose marriage to men, rather than waiting for the man to propose. In ancient Ireland men were sometimes expected to pay a penalty if a woman proposed to them on leap day and they declined. Leap Day is also St. Oswalds Day. This Saint was an archbishop who died on leap day in the year 992. In some locations it is considered unlucky to be born on leap day, but this is largely a matter of opinion.

Leap Day Birthdays Individuals born on leap day can make their own choices about when or if to celebrate during non-leap years. For those who are born on February 29 a large celebration is often the desire when it is a leap year. For non-leap years these individuals may choose to celebrate on February 28 or March 1 according to their own desires, but legally they do still add a year so that they can be eligible to drive, sign a contract or any other legal action that requires a specific age.

Worldwide Leap Year Festival The town of Anthony TX declared itself the Leap Year Capital of the Year in the 1980′s and has been holding a festival every leap year since. The festival is 4 days long and is filled with parades, family events and of course a birthday party. Unfortunately the event may not be held this year, 2012. Supporters are working to get funding and get the event planned. Hopefully they will be able to continue this fun event.

Leap year comes only once every four years and is worth a bit of celebration.

Want to find out more about things to do with kids this year? Read Dawn Marcotte’s 365 Days of Fun In Minneapolis to get some more ideas.