what is pi day

Sat, 02 May 2026 17:17:46 +0000

**What is Pi Day: Unlocking the Math and Magic Behind March 14th** As we approach the end of winter, a peculiar celebration begins to gain momentum in the United States. On March 14th, math enthusiasts, foodies, and tech-savvy individuals alike start to buzz about a unique phenomenon known as Pi Day. But, what exactly is Pi Day, and why are people talking about it? The story of Pi Day begins with a Philadelphia mathematician named William Jones in the 17th century. He discovered that the ratio of a circle's circumference to its diameter was approximately 3.14. However, it wasn't until 1949 that the mathematician Larry Shaw, who worked at the NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory, organized the first Pi Day celebration at the San Francisco Exploratorium. Today, Pi Day is celebrated worldwide, with the US being one of the most enthusiastic communities. **Why What is Pi Day Is Gaining Attention in the US Right Now**