What Happened on February 29?

This special day only exists once every four years! Learn why humans invented leap day and meet people who only have a birthday every four years.

1504 — Columbus uses a lunar eclipse to impress Jamaica's leaders

Stranded in Jamaica, Christopher Columbus predicted a total lunar eclipse, using astronomy to regain help from local people. Read the full story →
1692 — First arrest warrants issued in the Salem witch trials

Colonial officials in Massachusetts issued warrants for three women accused of witchcraft, beginning the infamous Salem trials. Read the full story →
1712 — Sweden has a double leap day

To fix its calendar, Sweden added TWO extra days to February in 1712, creating a February 30 that no other nation ever used. Read the full story →
1940 — Hattie McDaniel wins the first Oscar given to a Black performer

Actress Hattie McDaniel became the first African American to win an Academy Award, taking Best Supporting Actress. Read the full story →
2012 — Tokyo Skytree reaches full height

Japan finished building Tokyo Skytree on leap day 2012, making it the tallest tower in the world at 634 meters. Read the full story →

Famous birthdays

Gioacchino Rossini (1792–1868) · Jack Lousma (1936) · Ja Rule (1976)

Rare Disease Day