International Pi Day is observed annually on 14th March to celebrate the mathematical constant π. The occasion falls on this date because of the three digits 3, 1, and 4 since the value of pi is 3.14. This unusual day is meant for all the geeks and nerds around the world who like spending their time solving mathematical theorems and quizzes.
For those who don’t know, Pi represents the ratio of the circle’s circumference to its diameter. The mathematical value is used for several calculations and applications in the real world. A fun fact about Pi Day is that it’s also the birthday of great physicist Albert Einstein.
Pi Day Celebration at University of Houston
It started in the year 1988 at San Francisco Exploratorium, organized by Physicist Larry Shaw whereby participants marched around a large circle while eating fruit pies. Today the celebrations involve much more complex activities. On March 12, 2009, the US House of Representatives passed HRES 224, recognizing 14th March as Pi Day.
Usually, people celebrate Pi Day by baking and eating pies. They even organize parties where everyone throws pies at each other and other crazy competitions are also held. Furthermore, for students and teachers, the scope is much wider as they can organize mathematical marathons.
However, the celebrations do not solely include the pie dessert. Some other geeky ways of celebrating Pi Day include organizing a contest where participants have to recite the value of Pi and the one, who gets the farthest, wins. People also wear Pi tee-shirts, stenciling the symbol on clothing and throw PI themed parties.
