Interesting Things About the Month of February

February: A Unique Month

February follows January, which has 31 days, and comes before March, which also has 31 days. Therefore, the shortest month of the year is sandwiched between two long months. February is the only month on both the Julian and Gregorian calendars with only 28 days. During a leap year, the month has 29 days. Because a common year has only 28 days, it has no full moon because full moons occur every 29 and a half days.

A leap year comes every four years. There was a leap year in 2016, 2020, and 2024, with 366 days in the year and 29 days in February. Those who were born on February 29 won't be able to do it again until 2028.

Even though February is the shortest month of the year, there are a lot of things to celebrate during the month.

February Is Black History Month

February is known as “Black History Month” where African Americans are recognized for their contributions to the world.

Black History Month is an annual observance in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. The Netherlands was added to the list in 2016. The United Kingdom holds its observance in October.

President Gerald Ford recognized Black History Month in 1976. He encouraged Americans to “seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.” Presidents of the United States have issued national decrees every year since 1976. Black History Month has a new theme every year.

Events In February 2026

• February 2: Groundhog Day
• February 4: World Cancer Day
• February 8: Super Bowl LX
• February 12: Abraham Lincoln's Birthday
• February 14: Valentine's Day
• February 16: Presidents' Day
• February 22: George Washington's Birthday

Valentine's Day, also called Saint Valentine's Day, is an annual holiday celebrated on February 14, regardless of the day of the week it falls on. People love celebrating Valentine's Day, even though it is not a public holiday in any country.

There are many traditions associated with love and romance. The average amount spent on Valentine's Day is between $18 billion and $23.9 billion. A consumer is expected to spend about $175.41 on cards, flowers, gifts, chocolates, dinner, and other romantic things.

Some traditional things people do on Valentine's Day include the following:

• Give flowers, usually red roses
• Give candy, usually chocolates
• Send Valentine's Day cards
• Go out to dinner
• Exchange romantic gifts

Adults love receiving gifts that usually come in heart-shaped boxes on Valentine's Day. Even schoolchildren exchange cards and give candies to their classmates on February 14, especially if it falls on a school day.

Presidents' Day

Two U.S. Presidents were born in February. Abraham Lincoln was born on February 12, and George Washington was born on February 22. Presidents' Day is not celebrated on the same date every year. They are celebrated on the third Monday to give workers a day off. Both presidents' birthdays are observed on Presidents' Day. The official legal holiday is observed between the two birthdays, during which all federal organizations and offices are closed.

Every year, there are big sales surrounding Presidents' Day. Many shoppers head to the malls to grab bargains.

Other February Observances

There are other observances in February that should also be noted. For instance, February is American Heart Month when people are made aware of heart diseases and what can be done to prevent heart attacks. February is also National Children’s Dental Health Month and National Library Lovers' Month.

• Riddle: Which month has 28 days?
• Answer: All of them.

Things To Buy In February

Some of the things that are best to buy in February include the following:

• Bedding
• Broadway tickets
• Clothes
• Furniture
• GPS units and audio equipment
• HDTVs and home theater
• iPads and tablets
• Tools

February Flowers: Violet and Primrose

February Birthstone: Amethyst

It might be a surprise to some that not all Black Americans are on board with the idea of designating an official month to celebrate Black people.