Is Leap Day unlucky for weddings? This county says it’s ‘special’

LOS ANGELES – In some cultures, Leap Day and Leap Year are believed to bring bad luck. Greek and Ukranian folklore suggests that getting married on Leap Day will ultimately end in divorce.

But to most Americans, it seems Leap Day is nothing but an extra 24 hours in the year. In fact, the County of Riverside in California has even encouraged couples to tie the knot on Feb. 29, saying it’s “special because it’s so rare.”

Greek and Ukranian folklore suggests that getting married on Leap Day will ultimately end in divorce. FILE PHOTO

“ Leap Year gives us the chance to host weddings on Feb. 29th, a date that’s special because it’s so rare, appearing just once every four years,” Riverside County Assessor-Clerk-Recorder Peter Aldana said this week.

“I look forward to seeing couples take this unique opportunity to celebrate their love. We’re committed to ensuring that every wedding ceremony, especially on Leap Day, is as memorable and unique as the date itself.”

Couples looking to tie the knot on Leap Day to solemnize their relationships in civil ceremonies during the quadrennial event were encouraged to make appointments with the Riverside County Assessor-Clerk-Recorder’s Office.

Aldana said the Assessor-Clerk-Recorder’s offices have openings, with certified wedding commissioners standing by for residents who want to exchange vows.

“Celebrate your love by joining hands in marriage on Leap Day, transforming a rare moment into the beginning of your lifelong journey together,” he said.

Walk-ins will be welcome, but priority will be given to appointments, officials said.

Leap years are a product of calendar year math and the number of days required for Earth to orbit the sun, according to astronomers.

A leap year is necessary to mark for the change in seasons. Rather than a regular 365-day year, the leap year adds an extra day to keep the calendar in sync with the season.