March 14 is a special day for math enthusiasts and pie lovers alike. It is the day we celebrate Pi Day, an annual celebration of the mathematical constant of pi. Pi represents the ratio of a circle’s circumference to its diameter and is approximately equal to 3.14159 and on and on. This never-ending number has captured the fascination of many and has become a reason for celebration.
The idea of Pi Day was first conceived by physicist Larry Shaw in 1988 at San Francisco’s Exploratorium, a science museum. It has since grown into an international event, with people from all over the world coming together to celebrate this infinite number. The date of March 14, or 3/14, was chosen because the first three digits of pi are 3.14.
At the first Pi Day celebration in 1988, Shaw and his wife, Catherine, brought pies and tea to the museum to honor the never-ending number. Shaw, also known as the Prince of Pi, continued to lead the museum’s annual celebration of pi until his passing in 2017. His legacy lives on as Pi Day continues to be celebrated around the world.
Over the years, Pi Day festivities have grown to include the honoring of another mathematical genius, Albert Einstein, who was born on March 14. In 2009, the U.S. House of Representatives officially designated March 14 as National Pi Day, recognizing the importance of this mathematical constant.
The Exploratorium, where it all began, continues to be at the forefront of Pi Day celebrations. This year, the museum has planned a Pi Procession, where a “high spirited crowd” will circle the museum’s Pi Shrine 3.14 times while waving the digits of pi and dancing along to a brass band. And what’s a celebration without some delicious pie? All participants in the procession will be rewarded with a free slice of pie.
But Pi Day is not just about having fun and indulging in some tasty treats. It is also a way to spark interest in the sciences, especially among young people. As the world becomes increasingly reliant on technology and innovation, it is crucial to encourage and nurture a love for math and science in the next generation. Pi Day serves as a fun and interactive way to do just that.
In 2015, Pi Day had an extra special twist. The date and time, 3/14/15 at 9:26:53 a.m., represented the first 10 digits of pi – 3.141592653. This unique occurrence added to the excitement and celebration of this beloved holiday.
Pi Day is now celebrated around the world by pi lovers of all ages. It has become a way to connect people from different backgrounds and cultures through a shared love for math and pie. So, on March 14, let’s all raise a slice of pie to the never-ending number that continues to captivate and inspire us. Happy Pi Day!
