Celebrating the Infinite: Pi Day at The Exploratorium

Dawn Sue

Dawn, the co-founder of Verima, a wellness sanctuary, and a…

When

March 14, 2024

All Day

Where

The Exploratorium
San Francisco, CA

Event Type

Every year on March 14th, mathematicians, educators, and enthusiasts around the world gather to celebrate Pi Day. This quirky holiday pays homage to the mathematical constant π (pi), which represents the ratio of a circle’s circumference to its diameter. With its decimal representation starting as 3.14, Pi Day falls on 3/14, offering a playful nod to this fundamental constant.

The Origins of Pi Day:

The celebration of Pi Day can be traced back to the late 20th century. It gained traction in the United States, particularly among educators and mathematics enthusiasts. The idea was popularized by physicist Larry Shaw at the San Francisco Exploratorium in 1988. Shaw, a noted π aficionado, organized a march around a circular space and served fruit pies to participants, marking the inaugural Pi Day celebration. Since then, Pi Day has grown into a global phenomenon, with individuals and organizations worldwide embracing the occasion to promote math education and appreciation.

Promoting Math Literacy:

Pi Day serves as more than just a playful celebration of a mathematical constant; it underscores the importance of math literacy and education. By fostering enthusiasm for mathematics through fun and interactive activities, Pi Day encourages individuals of all ages to explore the beauty and relevance of mathematical concepts in their daily lives. Moreover, it provides an opportunity to challenge misconceptions about math and promote inclusivity and diversity within STEM fields.

As we mark another Pi Day, let us celebrate the infinite wonders of mathematics and the enduring legacy of pi. Whether indulging in delicious pies, unraveling the mysteries of pi’s decimal expansion, or marveling at its applications in science and technology, Pi Day reminds us of the profound impact that mathematics has on our world. So, on March 14th, let’s raise a slice to pi and the boundless possibilities it represents.

What: Pi Day

When: March 14 (3.14) 11:00am-3:00pm

Where: The Exploratorium in San Francisco (Pier 15, San Francisco, CA)

Cost: $29.95-$39.95

References:

Exploratorium. (n.d.). Pi Day. Retrieved from https://www.exploratorium.edu/pi
National Council of Teachers of Mathematics. (2022). Celebrating Pi Day. Retrieved from https://www.nctm.org/pi-day

Dawn Sue

Dawn, the co-founder of Verima, a wellness sanctuary, and a devoted mother of three, embodies the essence of passion and perseverance. Residing in Palo Alto, she seamlessly blends her roles as an entrepreneur, ballet teacher, and health advocate, particularly for PANS, driven by her son's condition. With a life dedicated to wellness, family, and community involvement, including volunteering at local schools and savoring the arts, Dawn is a testament to the power of a purpose-driven existence. Her journey illustrates the formidable force of a mother on a mission, inspiring through her advocacy and commitment to creating a healthier world. Follow her insights and adventures @Verimadawn, where she shares her passion for wellness and the balance of business and motherhood.