Pi, which is also written as the Greek letter “π,” is 3.14159265359. Pi is used to calculate things like the circumference of a circle or the volume of a sphere, whereas pie is used to make people happy. Those two come together on March 14 (3/14), when mathematicians and dessert lovers unite to celebrate Pi Day.
If your family feels hungry, take advantage of one of these $3.14 pie deals …
March 14, all day
Delightful Pastries Bakery and the Chicago French Market — Mini pies will be available and flavor options include banana cream and chocolate custard.
Rush Street Pantry — Hand pies come in three flavors: apple, cherry and mixed berry.
Bennison’s Bakery — It’s going to be tough deciding between apple, Boston cream pie, French silk and rhubarb mini pies
Steak& Vine — Enjoy slices of key lime and apple pie.
4 Star Restaurant Group’s The Windsor and Smoke Daddy — Both restaurants will offer a free slice of key lime pie with the purchase of an adult entrée (limit one per table).
If your family feels like moving, lace up your shoes for the
…
March 14, 6 p.m.
Fleet Feet Sports, at both Chicago locations and the Oak Park location
$40
If you’re looking for fun with friends or have older kids who love to run, join in for a 3.14 mile run to benefit the Illinois Science Council. A post-run pi(e) party features pizza and brain games.
If your family feels like learning, check out these resources …
Pi is also used all the time by NASA scientists and engineers to explore other planets, and the Jet Propulsion Laboratory offers up some cool math challenges showing how here. Or check out this video from Math Bites with Danica McKellar.
If your family feels like reading, pick up one of these books …
“Sir Cumference and the Dragon of Pi” by Cindy Neuschwander (great for grades 3-6)
“Why Pi?” by Johnny Ball (great for grades 2-5)
“Piece of Pi: Wit-Sharpening, Brain-bruising, Number-Crunching Activities” with Pi by Naila Bokhari (great for grades 6-8)
