This blog post was updated on February 9, 2024.

Every March 14th, the mathematical constant pi (π) is celebrated around the world. This is because the date 3/14 matches the first three significant digits of this mathematical constant. Get it? Who says mathematicians can’t have a sense of humor?

On this day, across the United States, cities honor both the number that has captivated mathematicians for centuries and, coincidentally, the birthday of Albert Einstein. From the hallowed halls of Princeton to the innovative Exploratorium in San Francisco with its math-inspired festivities and pi parades, each city adds its distinctive flavor to the day.

San Francisco, California

In the heart of San Francisco, the Exploratorium is a beacon of curiosity all year long, but in particular for Pi Day. The Exploratorium has celebrated Pi Day since 1988, an event that has blossomed into an annual jubilee. The museum flings open its doors to enthusiasts of all ages, engaging them in pi-themed activities that captivate both the intellect and the imagination. The institution honors not just π, but also the anniversary of Albert Einstein’s birth, infusing the day with both science and history.

Pi Day at the Exploratorium typically occurs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on March 14th, with museum admission granting access to a world of rational — and irrational — delights. A highlight is the pi parade, a whimsical procession during which each participant brandishes a digit of π (3.14159…), symbolically starting at 1:59 p.m., a nod to the number’s fourth through sixth digits.

Local culinary artisans contribute to the day’s fare, offering slices of pie that embody San Francisco’s diverse flavors. This tradition not only satisfies the palate but also underscores the Exploratorium’s commitment to weaving community, science, and fun into a single event.

Princeton, New Jersey

Princeton, New Jersey, a town steeped in academic prestige and historical significance, infuses Pi Day with a blend of intellectual charm and community spirit. Here, the town’s connection to Albert Einstein, who spent his later years at Princeton University, adds a layer of historical allure to the celebration of π, making it not just a day for math aficionados but also a tribute to one of the greatest minds in science.

The festivities in Princeton, coordinated by Princeton Tours, transform the town into a hub of pi-related revelry. The celebrations begin on March 11th, building up to the main event on March 14th — Pi Day and Einstein’s birthday — and concluding on March 16th. These events are designed to engage the community and are open to all, with most activities being free of charge. Attendees can indulge in pie-eating contests, pie throwing, and pi recitation contests, with the more artistically inclined participating in pizza pie and cupcake decorating contests. An Einstein look-alike contest adds a whimsical nod to Princeton’s own slice of history.

On Pi Day itself, the festivities continue with educational tours, entertaining presentations, and even Dinky train rides with an Einstein reenactor, bringing history and mathematics to life. The Princeton Public Library joins in with special events, including appearances by notable children’s authors, further enriching the community’s experience. Local establishments like LiLLiPIES at the Princeton Shopping Center offer pie tastings, exemplifying the town’s support for Pi Day. The apple pie eating contest, held within the cozy confines of McCaffrey’s Supermarket, is a testament to the town’s embrace of both the sweet and the scholarly.

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Chicago, Illinois

Chicago, the city known for its deep-dish pizza and hearty cuisine, doesn’t miss a beat when it comes to Pi Day. On this day, the Windy City transforms into a haven for pie aficionados, with local bakeries and pizzerias baking up an array of specials that tantalize the taste buds and celebrate the mathematical marvel that is π.

The culinary celebrations begin in Logan Square, where Greek restaurant Andros Taverna serves up delectable treats like Meyer lemon meringue pie and raspberry cream kataifi tart. Vanille Patisserie joins the fray with an assortment of 10-inch pies — including Nutella Silk and Apple Streusel — offered at the apt price of $23.14, a playful nod to the pi sequence. Sweet Mandy B’s caters to the traditionalists with classic pie slices, each going for $3.14.

Not to be outdone, Bennison’s Bakery in Evanston delights with mini pies of apple, strawberry rhubarb, and French silk, each at $3.14. Delightful Pastries offers a slice of pie for the same price, with a chance to nab one for free at exactly 3:14 in the afternoon. Bang Bang Pie Shop rounds out the celebration with their own quartet of Pi Day specials, featuring flavors like Chocolate Chess and Lemon icebox, ensuring that every preference is catered to in true Chicago style.

Shifting from sweet to savory, we have Blaze Pizza which joins in on the fun with its pizza pies, offering their full range at at $3.14 a slice, inclusive of any topping. Over in the bustling West Loop, Santullo’s similarly serves up cheese pizza slices at a Pi Day discount.

FAQs: 

Q: Are there any age restrictions for participating in Pi Day activities?
A: Most Pi Day activities are suitable for all ages, but some events, especially contests, may have age categories or restrictions.

Q: Is there a fee to participate in the Pi Day celebrations?
A: While many Pi Day events are free, some activities, particularly those inside venues like the Exploratorium, may require paid admission.

Q: Do I need to register in advance for any Pi Day events?
A: It depends on the event. Some activities, especially those with limited space, may require advance registration.

Q: Are there any resources for celebrating Pi Day at home?
A: Yes, the Exploratorium and other organizations often provide at-home Pi Day activities on their websites.

Q: Where can I find the most current information on Pi Day events?
A: The most updated information is usually available on the websites of the event organizers or participating establishments.

Have you ever been to one of these Pi Day celebrations? Tell us about it in the comments below!