Leap Day: The Once-in-a-Blue-Moon Occurrence
Couples who Forget Special Days Prefer February 29
Every day, countless couples tie the knot and marriage halls are bustling with celebrations. However, today marks a unique date on the calendar – February 29, a day that only comes around every 4 years. But do couples actually prefer this day for their weddings?
According to Marriage Unit Manager Serpil Özden, couples do not necessarily see February 29 as a special or preferred day for their weddings. In fact, it is often groom candidates who have forgotten their special days who opt for this date. “Couples who truly want to celebrate their wedding anniversaries, the happiest day of their lives, every 4 years do not generally choose February 29,” Özden stated.
Contrary to expectations, the number of weddings at the Istanbul Beşiktaş marriage office continued at its normal pace on February 29. One couple, who would be celebrating their wedding anniversary every 4 years due to this date, were not even aware of its significance. “We never really thought about it. It was a coincidence, but a nice one for us. We celebrate our anniversary on both February 28 and March 1,” the couple shared.
In hospitals, the maternity wards saw a decrease in activity on February 29. Expectant mothers who did not want their children’s birthdays to fall on this date chose other days for their deliveries. Gynecology Specialist Dr. Duygu Işıl Gencer highlighted one case where a mother requested a change in the morning, and the hospital accommodated the request. “Some families may want to change the birth date of children born on February 29, but it is important to note that the date and time of birth are automatically processed and recorded accurately,” Dr. Gencer emphasized.
While February 29 may not be the top choice for most couples tying the knot or expectant mothers delivering babies, it remains a unique day that presents a different kind of celebration for those who embrace it.
