Leap Year Traditions: Women Proposing and Celebrating Anniversaries

Leap Year Traditions: Women Proposing and Unique Anniversaries

As February 29 approaches, many couples are embracing the tradition of women proposing during leap years. This age-old custom, said to date back to the fifth century in Ireland, has become a fun and meaningful way for couples to celebrate their love.

According to modern folklore, St. Bridget once urged St. Patrick to allow women the right to propose. A compromise was reached, allowing women to propose once every four years during a leap year. Another story traces the tradition back to Queen Margaret of Scotland in 1228, who passed a law requiring men to accept women’s marriage proposals during leap years or buy them a dress.

While there is no concrete evidence to support these tales, many couples find joy in the idea of having a “real” anniversary every four years. Ryan Celestina, a mental health counselor, and his fiancée Emily Grupp, an ICU nurse, are set to tie the knot on leap day at the Pelican Club in Jupiter, Fla. They see the leap year anniversary as a unique opportunity to celebrate in a special way every four years.

Similarly, Justin Sampogna, a radio producer, and Katherine Stewart, a training and organizational development specialist, appreciate the idea of having an anniversary only once every four years. “In four years, it will be our first anniversary,” joked Ms. Stewart, highlighting the novelty and excitement of celebrating their love in a different way.

With fewer anniversaries to commemorate, these couples see leap year traditions as a chance to make each celebration more extravagant and memorable. Whether rooted in history or simply a fun custom, the tradition of women proposing and unique leap year anniversaries continue to bring joy and excitement to couples around the world.