February is the shortest month of the year with only 28 days. It is sandwiched between two long months because January and March have 31 days. February is the only month on both the Julian and Gregorian calendars with only 28 days.
February in a leap year
February is one day longer during a leap year that comes every four years. There was a leap year in 2016 and 2020 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 2024.
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. There is a new theme for each Black History Month. The theme for February 2023 is "Black Resistance."
While Black History Month seems to be a good thing for the majority of African Americans, not all people believe having a month dedicated to Blacks is a good thing. Black actor and director Morgan Freeman calls Black History Month "ridiculous."
Hear what Freeman says in his own words:
Freeman argues that there should be no Black History Month because there is no White History Month. Recognition of accomplishments for any race should not be reduced to just one month in the year.
Events in February
- February 2: Groundhog Day
- February 4: World Cancer Day
- February 12: Abraham Lincoln's Birthday
- February 12: Super Bowl LVII
- February 14: Valentine's Day
- February 20: Presidents' Day
- February 22: George Washington's Birthday
February 14 is Valentine's Day
Valentine's Day, also called Saint Valentine's Day, is an annual holiday celebrated on February 14 no matter what day of the week it falls on. Valentine's Day is not a public holiday in any country.
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. Even school children exchange cards and give candies to their classmates on February 14, especially if it falls on a school day.
Presidents' Day
Presidents' Day is not celebrated on the same date every year. However, it is always celebrated on the third Monday to give workers a day off. The day is celebrated between Abraham Lincoln's birthday on February 12, and George Washington's birthday on February 22. Both presidents' birthdays are celebrated on Presidents' Day on February 20, 2023. Banks, post offices, schools, and federal organizations are closed on Presidents' Day.
Other February observances
There are other observances during the month of February. 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 National Children’s Dental Health Month and National Library Lover's Month.
February zodiac signs
- Aquarius (January 20 - February 18)
- Pisces (February 19 - March 20)
February flowers and birthstone
- February Flowers: Viola plant and the Primrose
- February Birthstone: Amethyst
Happy Birthday to all persons born in the month of February!
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