Since the Gregorian calendar was established in 1582, Feb. 29 has been designated Leap Day. The extra day in the shortest month of the year is meant to account for the difference between our calendar and the actual amount of time, a little less than 365.25 days, the Earth takes to revolve around the Sun. The occasion occurs every four years except for centennial years not evenly divisible by 400.
Though it is not a federally-recognized holiday or a date with much commercial fanfare, there are several fun and creative ways to commemorate the quadrennial occasion. Here are seven Leap Day activities in and around Boston this year to enjoy February’s extra day.
HIKE BOSTON: LEAP DAY HIKE
Boston’s daytime hiking series is ringing in Leap Day with a walk through Olmsted Park in Jamaica Plain. Led by former Emerald Necklace park ranger Steve Kruszkowski, the informal hike will feature some information about the surrounding scenery and a limited supply of traction cleats. The hiking group will meet at the Daisy Field parking lot. 10-11 a.m. Free. 217 Jamaicaway, Boston. boston.gov
FROG ORIGAMI AT THE BOSTON PUBLIC LIBRARY
Celebrate Leap Day with leaping-themed origami. The Brighton branch of the Boston Public Library will host a frog origami event, where participants can learn to fold and create their very own leaping frog. All materials will be provided. 2-3 p.m. Free. 40 Academy Hill Road, Brighton. bpl.org
