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For better or worse, we’re getting an extra day of winter this year. Leap year, which adds an extra 24 hours to the end of February, occurs about every four years in order to keep the calendar in sync with the seasons. Since it takes the Earth approximately 365.2422 days to orbit the sun, and the handmade calendar year is exactly 365 days long, our seasons will eventually drift without accounting for the extra time.
This year, the addition of Feb. 29 falls on a Thursday. On the bright side, one more day of winter (editor’s note: or, what Minnesotans are calling winter this year) means more time to try something new or finish that project you’ve been putting off for months. Whether you want to relax, play, or be productive, here are a few ways to make the most of your extra day.
Try the Leap Year Cocktail
This celebratory drink was created in 1928 by Harry Craddock, one of the most influential bartenders of the time who worked at the famous Savoy Hotel in London. This recipe was featured in Craddock’s “The Savoy Cocktail Book,” in which the drink is said to “have been responsible for more proposals than any other cocktail that has ever been mixed.” Ring in the leap year with this concoction of gin, Grand Mariner, sweet vermouth, and fresh lemon juice.
Enjoy the Outdoors
With one more day of winter on the calendar, you might as well get outside and embrace it. Go for a snowy hike, hit the ski slopes, go skating, or find a snowshoeing trail in your area.
Try Something New
Now’s the time to try out that karaoke bar, trivia spot, or restaurant you’ve had your eye on.
Make a Leap Year Resolution
If you always find it difficult to achieve your New Year’s resolutions, maybe a four-year goal sounds a bit more realistic. Write something down that you want to achieve before 2028.
Volunteer Your Time
What better use of free time than giving back to the community? Many organizations throughout the Twin Cities and greater Minnesota have ongoing opportunities to get involved for a good cause.
Host a Party
A bonus holiday calls for a party. Get together with family or friends to reflect on the last four years over good food, drinks, and company.
Start Your Spring Cleaning
Hopeful for an early spring? Get into the spirit by starting your seasonal tasks a few weeks in advance. Take the day to deep clean the house, re-organize living spaces, or start a DIY home improvement project.
Celebrate a Special Birthday
People born on Feb. 29 generally celebrate on Feb. 28 or March 1, but this year they get to blow out the candles on the true day they were born. Don’t know anyone with a 2/29 D.O.B.? Rapper Ja Rule and soccer player Ferran Torres may accept your birthday wishes.
