Celebrate Pi Day at the Atomic Cowboy
Pi Day is just around the corner. Celebrated every year on March 14th, this holiday brings out the mathlete and pie-lover in everyone. At Atomic Cowboy, we’re doing our part by offering $1 slices of cheese pizza. Read on to discover more about Pi, Pi Day, and the link to one of America’s favorite foods.
What is Pi?
Pi is approximately equal to 3.14, which is the ratio of a circle’s circumference (perimeter) to its diameter (the line that passes through the center). Although 3.14 represents the beginning of Pi, the number is infinite and continues indefinitely. Pi is also an irrational number, meaning it cannot be expressed as a fraction.
The first calculation of Pi dates back to the Ancient Greek mathematician and inventor Archimedes. This number is an engineering staple and has made modern-day construction possible, hence its importance.
The History of Pi Day
Although Pi was discovered around 250 BC, Pi Day was established much more recently. In 1988, physicist Larry Shaw founded Pi Day, choosing March 14th because the numerical date corresponds with Pi’s value. This date is also the birthday of the most famous physicist of all time, Albert Einstein.
The first Pi Day celebration occurred at the Exploratorium, an interactive science museum in San Francisco where Shaw worked. It primarily focused on a circular parade, fruit pies, and tea. Shaw, honored as the Prince of Pi, continued to expand the holiday until the US Congress took notice and officially designated March 14th National Pi Day in 2009.
Pi versus Pie
Pi and pie are different; one is a calculation, while the other is food. However, pie has become a key part of Pi Day since celebrating delicious food is easier and more enjoyable than celebrating math. This is where pizza comes in.
While some celebrate Pi Day to honor French silk, banana cream, and apples, others celebrate pizza, which has been known as “pie” for over a century.
According to mushroom and sausage lore, pizza’s alternative name originates from a 1903 New York Tribune article that described pizza as “tomato pie,” attempting to characterize the dish as a pie-like meal with a crust topped with sauce, cheese, and various ingredients. However, the nickname didn’t gain popularity until 50 years later when Dean Martin’s “That’s Amore” featured the lyrics: “When the moon hits your eye like a big pizza pie…”
Indeed, the link between Pi and a slice of cheese or pepperoni feels appropriate; just like Pi, the affection for pizza is also eternal.
Atomic Cowboy is a cultural mashup of ideas and experiences, food and drink, late nights and early mornings, and north and south. We offer in-restaurant dining and delivery. Contact us today to learn more about our menu, events, and accolades.
