Leap Day, occurring every four years on February 29, presents a unique opportunity for consumers to access special promotions, particularly for individuals born on this date. The next occurrence of Leap Day will be on Wednesday, February 29, 2028. While the calendar adjustment is necessary to synchronize the calendar year with the astronomical year, which is approximately 365.25 days, businesses often utilize this occasion to offer discounts, freebies, and deals. These offers generally fall into two categories: those exclusively for "Leaplings" (individuals born on February 29) and those available to the general public.
Based on historical data from previous Leap Years, such as 2024, and predictions for the upcoming 2028 event, a variety of businesses are expected to participate. Eligibility for Leapling-specific offers typically requires the presentation of a valid government-issued ID or birth certificate to verify the birth date. Offers and local participation may vary by location.
Freebies for Leaplings (February 29 Birthdays)
Individuals born on February 29 can anticipate exclusive rewards from various restaurants and retailers in 2028. These offers usually require proof of birth date.
Food and Beverage * Krispy Kreme: Leaplings can expect to receive a free dozen Original Glazed doughnuts. This offer generally requires a valid ID and is available without a purchase. * Insomnia Cookies: Predictions suggest that Insomnia Cookies will offer Leaplings a free 6-pack of cookies and a birthday party in-store. This typically requires a valid ID. * Home Run Inn: This pizza chain is expected to give away pizzas to the first 29 Leap Year babies (ages 18 or older) who present a valid ID on February 29, 2028. * Jackson's Taziki's (Tennessee): Dine-in guests with a Leap Day birthday and valid ID may receive freebies such as a pack of Taziki's cookies, a slice of baklava, or a slice of baklava cheesecake. * Cowboy Chicken: Guests with a Leap Day birthday may receive a free wood-fire rotisserie chicken, provided they present a valid ID. * Buffalo Wild Wings: Members of the Blazin' rewards program may get six free wings during their birthday month. For Leaplings, this window would extend from February 29 to March 29, 2028.
Retail and Entertainment * Milk Bar: This bakery is expected to offer Leap Year babies a free 6-inch birthday cake. In 2024, discounted cereal milk soft serve was also available. * Build-A-Bear Workshop: Leaplings can likely purchase a Birthday Treat Bear at a significant discount (historically $4 compared to a regular price of $14). This requires an in-store visit and valid ID. * Oh My Cupcakes (Sioux Falls): Locations in Sioux Falls are expected to give free cupcakes to Leap Day babies. * The Edge (NYC): Free admission is expected for Leaplings all day. * Elsie Rooftop (NYC): A free 2-hour open bar and a $100 gift certificate are anticipated for Leap Day birthday holders. * STRAT Skyjump (Las Vegas): Leaplings may expect a free Skyjump (historically valued at $129.99) on Leap Day.
Offers for Everyone
In addition to exclusive Leapling rewards, many businesses offer deals open to the general public on February 29.
Food and Beverage * Wendy's: Customers can typically receive a free Cinnabon Pull Apart during breakfast hours until 10:30 a.m. * Chipotle: A free side of guacamole with any entrée order is often available using a specific promo code (e.g., EXTRA24 in 2024) via the website or app. * Chuck E. Cheese: Children under 52 inches tall can usually get free all-day jump passes for the trampoline zones. * Van Leeuwen: Free pints were available in Washington Square Park (NYC) from 2-6 p.m. in 2024, while supplies lasted. * General Restaurant Deals: Leap Day is frequently associated with BOGO (Buy One Get One), $2.29 specials, and 29% off discounts at various restaurants.
Retail and Services * Staples: Rewards members can typically receive free passport photos (up to 29,000 photos available total) via the Staples app. * FutureCard: In 2024, this offer provided free NYC subway rides on February 28-29 via 100% cashback. * Wollman Rink (NYC): Free admission for all is expected, though skate rentals are not included. * Tops Friendly Markets: While specifically for Leaplings (requiring ID or birth certificate), Tops offers a free 4-pack of gourmet cupcakes to celebrate the missed birthdays.
Birthday Freebie Programs
Beyond the specific Leap Day window, many national chains offer birthday freebies through their rewards programs. These programs often require sign-up in advance and may have specific terms regarding when the freebie is issued (e.g., on the actual birthday or during the birthday month).
- Applebee's Grill and Bar: Club Applebee's members receive a free gift on their birthday.
- California Pizza Kitchen: CPK Rewards members receive a free starter upon registration and a free dessert for their birthday.
- Chili's: My Chili's Rewards members receive a free dessert on their birthday, in addition to other perks like free chips and salsa upon signup.
- Chipotle Mexican Grill: Chipotle Rewards members receive points for spending and a birthday reward, though specific details are provided within the program.
- Culver's: My Culver's Rewards members receive a free birthday treat.
Important Considerations for Consumers
Identification Requirements Most offers designated for Leaplings require valid identification to prove the February 29 birth date. Consumers should ensure they have a government-issued ID or birth certificate available when visiting participating locations.
Geographic Variability Participation in Leap Day promotions often varies by region and specific franchise location. For example, offers from Oh My Cupcakes are limited to Sioux Falls locations. Consumers are advised to contact their local stores or check official social media channels to confirm participation before visiting.
Terms and Conditions Offers are subject to change and availability. "While supplies last" disclaimers are common for food items. Additionally, some offers may be app-exclusive or require pre-registration for a rewards program. The information regarding 2028 offers is based on patterns observed in previous Leap Years; specific details will be confirmed by brands closer to the date.
Conclusion
Leap Day 2028 offers a unique occasion for consumers to access special freebies and discounts. Individuals born on February 29 should prepare to present identification to claim exclusive rewards from brands such as Krispy Kreme, Milk Bar, and Build-A-Bear Workshop. Simultaneously, the general public can look forward to deals from Wendy's, Chipotle, and Staples. As the date approaches, consumers should monitor official brand announcements for specific terms, participating locations, and redemption instructions.