The Leap Year Proposal

On the 29th of February, women around the world celebrate the Irish tradition of the Leap Year Proposal, also known as Ladies’ Privilege or Bachelor’s Day. But before we get into legend, let’s get some clarity on what a leap year is. Every four years, except if the year is a multiple of 100, an extra day at the end of February is added to our calendar of 365 days. The reason we have February 29 every four years is because of two different time cycles involved with the rotation of the Earth.

Now that we understand the basis of a Leap Year, we can return to the ‘when’ and ‘why’ of the Irish tradition based on the legend of Saint Bridget and Saint Patrick, by which women propose to men on Leap Day, 29 February. According to the legend (that once had a legal basis in Scotland and England), St Brigid of Kildare complained to St. Patrick that maidens had to wait too long for their suitors to ask for their hand, and so St. Patrick decreed that on the extra day of a leap year, women could propose to men.

And there you have it…so ladies, it’s time to channel your inner Monica by proposing to the man you love!

Browse our collection of men’s ring below for inspiration;