February 2024 - List of Important Days

Why does February have 28 days (and sometimes 29)?

February originally had 30 days, but Julius Caesar's calendar reforms in 45 BCE shortened it to 29 days. Later, Augustus adjusted it to 28 days, with an extra day added every four years for leap years.

What is the origin of the name "February"?

The name "February" comes from the Latin word "februarius," meaning "purification." It was named after the Roman festival Februa, held on the 15th of the month.

Why is February the shortest month?

The Romans initially considered an even-numbered month unlucky, so they made February the last month of the year. When Julius Caesar reformed the calendar, February ended up with fewer days to align with the lunar cycle.

What is Leap Year, and why does it affect February?

A leap year occurs every four years to compensate for the fact that Earth's orbit around the sun takes about 365.25 days. This additional day, known as Leap Day, is added to February, making it 29 days instead of 28.

Are there any significant holidays in February?

Yes, February includes various holidays such as Valentine's Day on the 14th, Presidents' Day (third Monday), and in some years, Lunar New Year. Additionally, it hosts awareness days like World Cancer Day and events like the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival.