Leap Day 2024 offered New York City residents and visitors a unique array of freebies, discounts, and special promotions. On February 29, 2024, various businesses and organizations provided offers ranging from free food and admission to transportation benefits and product giveaways. These promotions were available to the general public, with specific exclusivity for Leap Day birthday celebrants at select locations. The availability of these offers was generally limited to February 29, 2024, while supplies lasted.
Leap Day Birthday Exclusives
Individuals born on February 29, often referred to as "Leaplings," were eligible for several exclusive freebies upon presenting valid identification.
- The Edge: Leap Day babies received free admission to The Edge all day.
- Krispy Kreme: A free Original Glazed dozen was available for Leap Day birthday holders.
- Milk Bar: A free full-sized birthday cake was offered to Leaplings.
- Insomnia Cookies: Eligible individuals could claim a free cookie 6-pack.
- Elsie Rooftop: This venue provided a free 2-hour open bar and a $100 gift certificate for Leap Day birthday celebrants.
General Public Offers
Numerous promotions were available to all consumers regardless of their birth date.
Food and Beverage
- Wendy's: Customers could receive a free Cinnabon Pull Apart until 10:30 AM on February 29.
- Chipotle: Chipotle Rewards members were eligible for free guacamole on digital orders placed through the app using promo code EXTRA24.
- Del Taco: As part of its 60th anniversary, the brand offered Snack Tacos for 60 cents.
- Van Leeuwen: Free pints were distributed in Washington Square Park from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM, while supplies lasted.
- Smoothie King: Customers spending $15 or more received a 29% discount on smoothie purchases.
- Xi'an Famous Foods: The Midtown location offered free food during its grand opening from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM on February 28.
Retail and Services
- Staples: Rewards members could obtain free passport photos (up to 29,000 free photos available).
- Sustainable Fashion Community Center: Located in Harlem at 1795 Lexington Avenue, this center accepted donations of plastic beauty, household, or cleaning products in exchange for free clothing on February 28 and 29. The donated plastic would be used for a sustainable art installation for Earth Day.
Entertainment and Recreation
- Wollman Rink: Free admission was available for all visitors; skate rentals were not included and cost $11, or skates could be brought from home.
- Chuck E. Cheese: Children under 52 inches tall could receive a free All-Day Jump Pass at locations featuring a Trampoline Zone. A coupon was required and available on the Chuck E. Cheese website on Leap Day.
- The Beam: Locals in New York, New Jersey, or Connecticut could ride The Beam for free with a Top of the Rock ticket during February.
- The Rink: A promotion offered skate access for $10 every Monday through March with code RINK10.
Transportation
- FutureCard: Users of this free debit card received 100% cashback on NYC subway rides, effectively making rides free on February 28 and 29.
Discounted Offers
- Namkeen Hot Chicken: Provided a 29% discount on all online orders on February 29.
- Foodie Card: Offered a one-year subscription for $1, providing 10% off at restaurants in NYC, Long Island, and Westchester, plus popups with free food.
Community and Government Resources
- IDNYC: New York City residents could unlock discounts and freebies on experiences, groceries, and transportation through the IDNYC program. Appointments could be scheduled online or by calling 311.
- Brooklyn Central Library: The annual "Night in the Library" event was scheduled for March 16, featuring live music, a speaker series, and a puppet show from 7:00 PM to 2:00 AM.
- Summer Youth Employment Program: Applications for this program, which offers paid work experience and career exploration for ages 14-24, closed on March 1.
Conclusion
Leap Day 2024 in New York City was marked by a diverse selection of free offers and promotions. These included exclusive perks for Leap Day birthday holders, such as free cakes and admission, as well as general public offers like free food items, retail services, and entertainment. Additionally, ongoing programs like IDNYC and specific events provided further opportunities for savings and community engagement.