Local Girl Celebrates 4th & 16th Birthday On Leap Day

HARRISBURG, N.C. — For many of us, Leap Day is just another day. For about 360,000 Americans, it’s the one time every four years they can celebrate on their actual birthday. Claire Lyons from Harrisburg is one of them.

“I’m four,” Lyons jokes.

She was born on Leap Day and turned 16 on February 29th.

Leapies, leapers, leaplings, whatever label you want to use, only about 0.07% of the world’s population were born on February 29th.

“It makes me feel a little more special and different,” explained Lyons.

Claire may joke that she’s only four, until it’s time to get behind the wheel.

“Since she is turning 16, we keep saying to her, you’re not going to drive because you’re still only four,” said Claire’s mom, Tammie Lyons.

The Lyons are a house divided, not just with Claire’s age, but also when to celebrate her birthday on a non-Leap Year.

“That is always the question,” said Tammie Lyons.

Claire says February 28th, Tammie says March 1st.

“March 1st normally wins,” said Claire.

This year, there is no debate when to celebrate.

While Claire may have a four year gap, when her day does come along, it’s well worth the wait.

“I had people who I’ve never really even spoke to before today told me happy birthday. So I feel like people kind of make it like a holiday almost,” explained Claire with a smile on her face.