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Leap Day: Six Hours Longer

By:Kim Salerno

On February 29,2020, many cultures will celebrate Leap Day which only happens every four years. Many people don’t know why Leap Day occurs.

Junior Jacob Collins stated, “I know it happens every four years, but I don’t know exactly what it’s for.”

Leap Day occurs because the Earth takes about six more hours to rotate around the sun compared to a regular 365 day year. So in a brief explanation, leap years have 365.2422 days which is why February 29th is on leap years.

Jacob commented, ““Even though it’s the shortest month, I feel like February has been going on forever.”

Around the world, many weird traditions take place in many places. For instance in Aurora, Illinois, women are allowed to arrest men on a five dollar fine on Leap Day.

Sophomore Ashleigh Green said, “I don’t think that’s very fair to do that just because it’s a holiday.”

Many famous stars have birthdays on Leap Day. Famous singer Dinah Shore and famous model Lena Gercke both celebrate birthdays on February 29th. In the UK, it’s tradition that people born on February 29 celebrate their birthday on March 1. In Taiwan, many people born on Leap Day will recognize their birthday on February 28. Usually though, it’s up to the preference of the person.

Junior Lucy Wultzabacher commented, “ I would rather have it on March 1 since I like March better than February.”

Many major cities in the U.S. have various activities on Leap Day. Tampa, Florida and New York City all have gatherings in the city to celebrate those extra six hours. The Badin community hopes that you enjoy those extra six hours for relaxation or celebration.