Did you know? Leap year fun facts!

2024 is a leap year and we thought we’d give you something a little bit different in our latest blog.

We have put together some fun facts about the history and traditions behind this special day…

Extra day

Leap years have 366 days instead of the usual 365 days. The extra day, February 29th, is added to keep the calendar year synchronised with the astronomical year.

Julian calendar

The concept of a leap year dates back to the Julian calendar introduced by Julius Caesar in 45 BCE.

Gregorian calendar

The current leap year rule is based on the Gregorian calendar, introduced by Pope Gregory XIII in October 1582.

Birthdays

People born on February 29th are called "leap day babies" or "leap year babies." Since their birthday occurs only once every four years, they often celebrate on February 28th or March 1st in non-leap years.

Rare events

The chance of being born on a leap day is approximately 1 in 1,461.

Olympic games

The Summer and Winter Olympic Games often coincide with leap years. This scheduling helps to maintain a consistent cycle for the games.

World Leap Year capital

Anthony, a town in Texas, declared itself the "Leap Year Capital of the World." It hosts a Leap Year Festival every four years.

Have any other interesting facts about leap years? We’d love to hear them via our social media pages!