The Friday the 13th Puzzle

How many Friday the 13ths can there be in one calendar year?

A minimum of 1 and a maximum of 3.

Quick Explanation:

  • A Friday the 13th happens when the 13th day of a month lands on a Friday.
  • Since there are 12 months, at least one will always align with a Friday.
  • The maximum occurs when three different months have a 13th that falls on a Friday.

Examples:

  • Minimum (1)2021 (Only August 13).
  • Maximum (3)2015 & 2026 (February 13, March 13, November 13).

Pattern:

  • If January 1st is a Thursday (normal year) or Sunday (leap year), the year will have 3 Friday the 13ths.
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