1. The Leap Year Blizzard of 1972: On February 29, 1972, Illinois was hit with a massive blizzard that dropped up to 20 inches of snow in some areas. The storm caused widespread power outages and travel disruptions, and is still remembered as one of the worst blizzards in Illinois history.

2. The First Leap Year Baby in Illinois: In 1904, a baby boy named Herman Horning was born on February 29 in Quincy, Illinois. He went on to become a successful businessman and farmer, and was often featured in local newspapers as a rare "leap year baby."

3. Leap Day Marriage Proposals: According to tradition, women are traditionally allowed to propose to men on Leap Day. In 2016, a couple in Elgin, Illinois made headlines when the woman proposed to her boyfriend at a local coffee shop on February 29.

4. Leap Year Voter Registration: In some states, including Illinois, voters are allowed to register to vote on February 29 during presidential election years. This gives those who have not yet registered a chance to make their voices heard in the upcoming election.

5. Leap Year Festivals: In recent years, several Illinois towns and cities have held Leap Year Festivals to celebrate the extra day in the calendar. For example, in 2020, the village of Manhattan, Illinois held a Leap Year Festival that featured live music, food vendors, and games for all ages.