Episode 249 - Leap years, Candlemas and other archaic calendar traditions

We're joined in the studio by senior properties historian Michael Carter to take a look at the annual traditions and events that mark the early part of the year — some we still celebrate today, while others have slipped into obscurity. Join us to discover the origins of Plough Monday, St Hilary's Day, Candlemas, Ash Wednesday and more. Plus, we reveal why we have leap years and why these take place on 29 February.

To learn more about Candlemas and why you shouldn't take your Christmas decorations down until 2 February, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/christmas/leaving-up-christmas-decorations. 

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