Don't Waste Your Chance: 29 Things to Do on Leap Day

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This year is a leap year, meaning there's one extra day added to the calendar, February 29. And today's the day, so what are you going to do with your extra time? This only happens once every four years, so there's extra pressure to make it count. To help, we've rounded up a list of some ideas (and even some for those who'd rather not buy into leap day).

1. Go for an Extra Workout

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You might think this sounds like an obligation, but you can use the extra day of the year to hit the gym or a fitness class. Chances are you'll feel much better after (thanks, endorphins). Bonus points if you try a class or workout that's new to you.

2. Catch Up With Someone

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If you haven't seen or talked to a friend or family member in a while, now might be a good time to reach out. Send them a text, call them (I know, a phone call! How novel!), or maybe even send them snail mail.

3. Clean Out Your Closet

4. Go to a Museum

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Or gallery or botanical garden or insert cultural institution here. It's a fun way to spend a few hours, either by yourself or with friends.

5. Plan an Impromptu Gathering With Friends

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On the morning of leap day, send a group text to all your friends seeing who's up for a spontaneous hangout. It can be brunch, dinner, a picnic (if you live in a warmer climate), an afternoon of board games, whatever your crew wants. Sometimes it's fun to not have plans in advance and just go with the flow.

6. Head Outside for a Walk

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If you're lucky to live somewhere that isn't too chilly this time of year, take advantage of that fact and go for a walk or a hike. And if you live in a place where a parka is mandatory, take a short walk. The fresh air might do you some good.

7. Read a Book

8. Make a To-Do List

9. Have a Self-Care Day

10. Do Something "Boring"

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This is similar to the to-do list idea, but you have to actually DO it. Take on something that's been on your list for a while, but you've been putting it off—like your taxes, organizing or cleaning your space, getting your important paperwork together, etc. It might help to tell yourself it's an extra day of the year, so technically you're not wasting your precious free time doing something you don't want to do.

11. Do Some Voting Research

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We have a big election coming up, and some important primary dates are happening soon. So now's a good time to do your civic duty and do some research on causes, issues, and candidates.

12. Reset

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We asked some of our readers what they were doing with their bonus day, and one person said they were going to use this time to reset. Take a moment to think about what's been going on in your life, say goodbye to some things that are holding you back, and do anything you need to do to start anew or reframe your mindset.

13. Do Something That's Free

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You don't have to spend a dime on your extra day. Take a look online or in your local newspaper for any fun (and free) activities that are happening in your neighborhood or city today.

14. DIY

15. Go Shopping

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Maybe you have some extra cash or got your tax refund early. Whatever the case, if you feel like revamping your wardrobe with some new spring finds, head to your favorite store. And if you don't have money to burn, window shopping is always fun, too.

16. Plan a Vacation

17. Do Something Alone

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Sometimes trying something by yourself can seem a little intimidating, like going to the movies, eating out, or even going on a solo day trip. But it can be fun and rewarding to spend time with yourself, so use this extra day to get to know yourself better. 

18. Binge-Watch a TV Show

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Since it's an extra day, I say we shouldn't feel guilty about spending it bingeing a new show or rewatching something you already love.

19. Cook Something New

20. Call Your Mom

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Or dad, grandma, sister, aunt, uncle… anyone in your family you need to catch up with. 

21. Go Somewhere, But Have No Set Destination

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Now, we're not saying to drive around aimlessly, but it can be fun to wander around, whether you're on foot, in a car, or using public transportation. Head out the door and decide once you get outside where you're going to go. Or start traveling in a certain direction and decide from there. Again, it's the perfect day to be spontaneous!

22. Try a New Look

23. Organize Your Photos

24. Write

25. Do Something That Scares You

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While you might not opt to go skydiving or bungee jumping today, you can try something that's out of your comfort zone.

26. Create Some Art

27. Start Learning Something New

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Thanks to technology, it's pretty easy to pick up a new hobby nowadays. Want to learn a new language? There's an app for that. Inspired by The Great British Bake Off and want to get into pastry-making? Guaranteed there are online tutorials. Whatever you want to do, there's probably an app, video, or website to help you achieve it.

28. Meditate

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Use the extra time to re-center, relax, and de-stress. 

29. Take a Nap

Disclaimer

This article is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to be used in the place of advice of your physician or other medical professionals. You should always consult with your doctor or healthcare provider first with any health-related questions.

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Managing Editor

Sarah is lifestyle writer and editor with over 10 years of experience covering health and wellness, interior design, food, beauty, and tech. Born and raised in Los Angeles, she attended New York University and lived in New York for 12 years before returning to L.A. in 2019. In addition to her work on THE/THIRTY andBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing , she held editor roles at Apartment Therapy, Real Simple, House Beautiful, Elle Decor, and The Bump (sister site of The Knot). She has a passion for health and wellness, but she especially loves writing about mental health. Her self-care routine consists of five things: a good workout, “me” time on the regular, an intriguing book/podcast/playlist to unwind after a long day, naps, and decorating her home.