National Time Refund Day on February 29 will soon be the favorite holiday for Americans since it requires you to do nothing. The day that comes after every four years during the leap year, is an occasion where you are given back 24 hours to celebrate and do as you please. This means the day can either be spent partying, doing chores, or lazing around. The bottom line is, that you have to use the day to perform tasks that you otherwise find no time for. The next time the leap year arrives, we expect you to celebrate its occurrence in whichever way you please.
History of National Time Refund Day
Every four years, a bonus day is added to the calendar. This special year which has 29 days in February, is known as a leap year and it is considered special since it gives the world an extra 24 hours. But have you ever wondered how a leap year occurs? Well, it has everything to do with the Sun! It takes our Earth 365 days, five hours, 48 minutes, and 45 seconds to circle the Sun once. And since the Gregorian calendar has only 365 days, adding an extra day to February is essential if we want our calendars to stay on track.
To better consume this extra day, H&R Block founded National Time Refund Day. This is an organization that has a virtual tax product that can help Americans in saving time since they no longer have to visit the office for tax advice and preparation. Instead, the time usually spent on doing taxes can be used to have fun! Hence, the term ‘time refund’.
The purpose behind the creation of the day was to give Americans some extra time since a survey by H&R Block revealed that people between the ages of 18 and 40 often complain about having little to no time for themselves. 70% of respondents said that they would even pay to buy more time.
National Time Refund Day timeline
Julius Caesar introduces the first leap year.
The Julian calendar adds an extra day to February.
Pope Gregory XIII states that the leap day would occur in any year divisible by four.
The first modern leap year is celebrated in Britain.
National Time Refund Day FAQs
Does February 2022 have 29 days?
No. February 2022 has 28 days.
What is a leap year?
A leap year is one where February has 29 days.
Are leap year babies lucky?
They are considered lucky since leap years are rare.
National Time Refund Day Activities
Take a nap
Too tired to do anything? Fret not, you can simply sleep the day away! Yes, turn off your phone and get ready to sleep throughout the day to rejuvenate your mind and body.
Spend time with family
On this day, you can dedicate your entire time to your family. You can do this by visiting a theme park with your children, going out for dinner, or hosting a B.B.Q. in your backyard.
Read a book
Too busy or tired to read a book on a normal day? Well, on National Time Refund Day, you have the next few hours to read any book of your choice. Simply snuggle in your bed and start reading.
5 Interesting Facts About Leap Years
Marriage during leap year
Greek superstition says it’s unlucky to get married during the leap year.
Leap year babies
They are called ‘leaplings’ or ‘leapers.’
People born on February 29
4.1 million people around the world have been born on this day.
Refusing proposal on February 29
In Denmark, a man refusing a woman’s proposal on this day has to give her a dozen pairs of gloves.
Irish tradition related to proposals
The day is known as Ladies’ Privilege since women can propose to men.
Why We Love National Time Refund Day
It provides some time off
The day is special because it gives everyone a chance to take a breather from their busy schedules and have some time off for themselves. This time can be used for anything one likes to do.
It helps one recharge
We love this day because it allows you to do absolutely nothing if that’s what you prefer. This means that someone who works long hours will be given a chance to recharge.
It brings families together
A lot of people who are otherwise busy with the office and other daily chores are finally given some time to enjoy themselves with their family. They can bond with their children or visit their parents/grandparents.
National Time Refund Day dates
Year | Date | Day |
---|---|---|
2025 | February 28 | Friday |
2026 | February 28 | Saturday |
2027 | February 28 | Sunday |
2028 | February 28 | Monday |
2029 | February 28 | Wednesday |