This was often called ‘The Ladies’ Privilege,’ and it is probably true to say that younger Canadians might not be aware of the tradition.
In previous times, some said that it was only on Leap Year day, that is the 29th of February, when a man could refuse a woman’s proposal only if he offered a gift, like a silk gown or money.
One story about the origin of the Ladies’ Privilege is set in Ireland: St. Bridget met St. Patrick one day and complained that women did not have the right to propose.
He offered the opportunity of once in every seven years, but she bargained him down to once in four.
It was reported recently that in England, a young couple discovered their wedding day will be even more special - their anniversary will only come round once every four years.
Emma Biggam and Andrew Pillsley of Rudge Road, Evesham will be walking up the aisle on Feb 29 this year, the date of a leap year. But they did not realise this until the vicar who will marry them at Rous Lench Church pointed it out to them. The revelation has not deterred their plans though and their traditional church wedding is still going ahead.
Leap Year only comes around every four years and it is announced by that last day of February. It also is the same year of the Summer Olympics and the U.S. Presidential Election.
Leap Year has been around for thousands of years. February usually has 28 days, but during Leap Year it has 29.
Why is there a February 29th?
Julius Caesar first created Leap Year in 46 B.C. so that the calendar year would match the solar year, the amount of time it takes the Earth to travel around the sun, that is about 365.2422 days. The extra .2422 creates an entire extra day every four years.
We now follow the Gregorian calendar which is slightly more exact. What about people who are born on February 29th? Their birthdays only happen every four years! February 29th is the Leap Day of the Leap Year.
Where to go on Feb. 29:
Leap Night
M.Y. Burrard Queen Ship
Boarding 8:30pm
Come celebrate with Loud Inc and Loud Inc Girls for a dance party aboard M.Y. Burrard Queen at “A Dock” in front of Bridges Pub, Granville Island. For more information visit Elwoods Pub, 3141 Broadway or call 604.716.5246.
Leap Year Ball
7:30pm at Billy Bishop Hall Ceroc is a fun mix of sexy salsa and stylish jive. Singles and couples welcome. Dress To Impress. Beginner level lessons all night.Visit:www.ceroc.ca for more info.
Chris Botti
7:30pm at Centre
Though best-known as a contemporary jazz performer, trumpeter Chris Botti made his initial splash on the pop music scene. A native of Oregon, he started playing at the age of ten, and while still in high school began performing professionally. Call 604.602.0616 or visit: www.centreinvancouver.com.
The Sleeping Beauty
8pm at Queen Elizabeth Theatre
With lavish scenery, rich costumes, and classical ballet at its finest, The Sleeping Beauty takes audiences on a magical journey to an enchanted kingdom. Visit: www.city.vancouver.bc.ca or see: www.rwb.org for info about the Royal Winnipeg Ballet.
Rough House
7pm at VECC
The Vancouver East Cultural Centre presents Andy Massingham who uses his tremendous physical talents to tell a story of falling down and rising up again. Visit: www.vecc.bc.ca for more details.
Missy Higgins
8pm at Plaza of Nations
The 23-year-old singer/songwriter from Melbourne has enjoyed phenomenal success in her homeland in spite - or perhaps because - of shunning the usual synthetic packaging. Visit: www.plazaofnations.com for more info about the concert or see: www.missyhiggins.com to learn more about Missy Higgins.
