Another New Year is upon us, Montreal…and this time with an extra day! The official leap day will be on February 29th, a day that only comes around once every four years. Normally, the month of February only has 28 days.
But why do we have a leap day in the first place? What’s its purpose? Simply put, leap days are essential for keeping our planet in check. Leap years help planet Earth stay in synch with its seasons, helping it orbit around the sun in a year’s time.
On average, the Earth orbits around the sun for 365.25 days. The leap day we experience every four years therefore accounts for these four extra 0.25 days. We know, it’s hard to wrap your head around! Apart from the science behind it, here are a few things you should know about the upcoming leap year:
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Leap babies will celebrate their birthday
That’s right! Those with birthdays on February 29th will finally (and accurately) get to celebrate their birthday! If you know a leap baby, make sure to wish them a happy birthday!
You might make more..or less…money
Depending on how often you get paid at work, you might end up making more or less money because of this extra day in February. Make sure to double-check with your employer!
It’s a lucky day for Irish women
Traditionally , women in Ireland are allowed to ‘pop the question’ to their partner on a leap day. This tradition dates back to the 5th century…talk about a long standing tradition!
Do you like to do anything special on leap day, Montreal?
