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March 14 is more than just another day on the calendar—it’s National Pi Day! While
mathematicians celebrate the infinite number π (3.14), foodies rejoice over deals
on circular treats like pizza and pie. This year, Pi Day falls on a Thursday, making it
the perfect midweek excuse to indulge in delicious discounts and freebies. From
Blaze Pizza to Cicis, Perkins, and Marco’s Pizza, here’s everything you need to
know to make the most of Pi Day 2024.
What is Pi Day, and Why Do We Celebrate It?
Pi Day is an annual celebration of the mathematical constant π (pi), which
represents the ratio of a circle’s circumference to its diameter. The number,
approximately 3.14, is infinite and irrational, meaning its decimal places never end
or repeat. Pi has fascinated mathematicians for centuries, with records like the
2021 calculation by the University of Applied Sciences in Switzerland, which
determined pi to over 62 trillion digits.
But Pi Day isn’t just for math enthusiasts. Over the years, it has evolved into a
cultural phenomenon, with restaurants and bakeries offering deals on pies, pizzas,
and other circular delights. The holiday was officially recognized by the U.S.
Congress in 2009, and it’s celebrated worldwide with events, parades, and, of
course, plenty of food.
The History of Pi Day
The concept of pi dates back thousands of years, with ancient civilizations like the
Babylonians and Egyptians approximating its value. However, the symbol π wasn’t
introduced until 1706 by Welsh mathematician William Jones. He chose the Greek
letter π because it stands for “periphery” and “perimeter,” reflecting the number’s
connection to circles.
Pi Day itself was first celebrated in 1988 by physicist Larry Shaw at the San
Francisco Exploratorium. The museum continues to host Pi Day festivities,
including a parade around the “Pi Shrine” and pie-eating contests. Today, Pi Day is
celebrated in schools, universities, and communities worldwide, often with a mix
of math-themed activities and culinary treats.
Pi Day 2024 Deals and Freebies
This year, Pi Day falls on March 14, and many restaurants are rolling out special
deals to celebrate. Whether you’re craving pizza, pie, or other circular treats, here’s
a roundup of the best offers:
1. Blaze Pizza
Blaze Pizza is known for its fast-fired artisanal pizzas, and this Pi Day, they’re
offering a sweet deal. Customers can enjoy $3.14 pizzas when they order online or
through the Blaze Pizza app. This deal is valid all day, so don’t miss out!
2. Cicis Pizza
Cicis is joining the Pi Day fun with a special offer: $3.14 adult buffet meals. This deal
is perfect for pizza lovers who want to sample a variety of flavors. Be sure to check
your local Cicis for participation.
3. Perkins Restaurant & Bakery
Perkins is celebrating Pi Day with a slice of their famous pie for just $3.14. Choose
from classic flavors like apple, cherry, or French silk. It’s the perfect way to satisfy
your sweet tooth.
4. Marco’s Pizza
Marco’s Pizza is offering a large one-topping pizza for just
10onPiDay.Whilenot3.14, this deal is still a steal for pizza fans. Use the promo code
“PIDAY” when ordering online.
5. Papa John’s
Papa John’s is getting in on the action with a special Pi Day deal: order a large
pizza online and get a second one for $3.14. It’s a great way to share the love (and
pizza) with friends and family.
6. Domino’s
Domino’s is offering 50% off all menu-priced pizzas for Pi Day. Simply use the code
“PIDAY” when ordering online. This deal is valid for carryout only, so plan
accordingly.
7. Pizza Hut
Pizza Hut is celebrating with a $5 any-size pizza deal. Choose from their classic
menu options and enjoy a delicious meal at a fraction of the cost.
Beyond Pizza: Other Pi Day Treats
While pizza steals the spotlight on Pi Day, don’t forget about dessert pies! Many
bakeries and restaurants are offering discounts on sweet pies to celebrate the
occasion. Here are a few to check out:
Marie Callender’s: Enjoy a slice of pie for $3.14 or a whole pie at a discounted price.
Village Inn: Get a free slice of pie with the purchase of an entrée.
Whole Foods: Select locations are offering discounts on their bakery pies.
Fun Pi Day Activities
Pi Day isn’t just about food—it’s also a great opportunity to engage in fun,
educational activities. Here are a few ideas:
Pi Recitation Contest: Challenge your friends or family to see who can memorize
the most digits of pi. The world record is over 70,000 digits, but even 10 digits is
impressive!
Bake a Pie: Celebrate Pi Day by baking your own pie or pizza. Get creative with
shapes and toppings.
Attend a Pi Day Event: Many schools, museums, and community centers host Pi
Day events, including math competitions, pie-eating contests, and more.
The Science of Pi: Why It Matters
Pi isn’t just a mathematical curiosity—it has real-world applications. NASA uses pi
to calculate spacecraft trajectories, planetary orbits, and even the deployment of
parachutes during landings. Engineers rely on pi to design everything from bridges
to roller coasters, and it’s essential in fields like architecture, physics, and
computer science.
For example, using just nine digits of pi, scientists can calculate the Earth’s
circumference with an error of less than a quarter of an inch over 25,000 miles.
That’s the power of pi!
Final Thoughts
National Pi Day is a unique holiday that combines math, food, and fun. Whether
you’re a math enthusiast, a foodie, or just looking for a great deal, there’s
something for everyone on March 14. Don’t miss out on the discounts and freebies
from your favorite pizza places and bakeries. And while you’re enjoying your slice
of pizza or pie, take a moment to appreciate the fascinating number that makes it
all possible: π.
