National Pi and Pie Day 2024

National Pi Day is celebrated across the United States on March 14th, marking a playful homage to the mathematical constant π (pi), which is approximately equal to 3.14. Originating from the resemblance of the date (3/14) to the first three digits of pi, this day has become a beloved occasion among mathematicians, educators, and students alike. It's a day filled with activities that celebrate mathematics, from pi memorization competitions to discussions on the significance of pi in various fields of science and engineering.

However, in a delightful twist, many also choose to celebrate National Pi Day by turning it into a "Pie Day." This inventive play on words not only adds a layer of fun to the occasion but also allows for a broader participation beyond the mathematically inclined. By embracing the culinary counterpart of pi—pie—individuals and communities find a delicious way to engage with the spirit of the day. Schools, bakeries, and households across the country partake in pie-making and pie-eating contests, pie bake-offs, and even educational events that incorporate pie recipes to teach mathematical concepts.

Pies in America come in an astonishing variety, each telling a story of regional ingredients, historical traditions, and cultural influences. We ran a survey of 3,000 devoted pie aficionados to discover how far they would be prepared to travel for that perfect pie experience – that is – savoring a state's signature pie right where it belongs.

The below infographic shows the nation's favorite signature pies, and how long people are willing to travel for them.

Top Ten Pies and States:

1. Boston Cream Pie, Massachusetts: 2 Hours 32 Minutes.

The Boston Cream Pie emerged in first place – pie aficionados said they would be prepared to travel for over two and a half hours to eat one of these in the Bay State. Despite its name, Boston Cream Pie is a delightful cake that layers custard or cream between sponge cake, topped with a rich chocolate glaze. Originating from Boston, this dessert's combination of moist cake, creamy filling, and chocolatey topping makes it a must-try.

2. Bumbleberry Pie, North Dakota: 2 Hours 31 Minutes.

Placing second, and just 1 minute behind, came North Dakota’s Bumbleberry Pie. This mixed berry pie from North Dakota, with its combination of strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, and blueberries, offers a perfect balance of sweet and tart. The burst of flavors from various berries makes it a unique treat, appealing to those who enjoy the depth and variety in their desserts.

3. Honeycrisp Apple Pie, Minnesota: 2 Hours 28 Minutes.

Utilizing the locally developed Honeycrisp apple, this pie is known for its juicy, flavorful filling that's both sweet and crisp. Devotees are willing to journey just under two and a half hours for a slice that encapsulates Minnesota's fresh take on an American staple. The distinct taste of Honeycrisp apples makes this pie a standout in Minnesota, offering a fresh twist on the traditional apple pie.

4. Strawberry Pie, Oklahoma: 2 Hours 27 Minutes.

With its bright, sweet filling made of fresh strawberries, often in a glaze, and topped with whipped cream, Oklahoma's Strawberry Pie is a celebration of simplicity and flavor. It's a summertime favorite that pie enthusiasts will travel distances comparable to the pursuit of Honeycrisp Apple Pie for.

5. Pecan Pie, Texas: 2 Hours 23 Minutes.

This Texan staple, with its rich filling of pecans, eggs, butter, and sugar, set in a flaky crust, embodies the soul of Southern desserts. Often served with whipped cream, its indulgent, nutty flavor is a testament to Texas' culinary heritage, making it a sought-after treat, which visitors are willing to travel over two hours for.

6. Key Lime Pie, Florida: 2 Hours 22 Minutes.

The zesty and creamy Key Lime Pie is Florida's claim to fame. With its perfect balance of tart and sweet, set in a graham cracker crust, this pie is as refreshing as Florida's tropical breeze. It's no wonder that pie aficionados are drawn to the Sunshine State, willing to traverse almost the same lengths as those seeking Texas' nutty delight.

7. Peanut Butter Pie, Virginia: 2 Hours 21 Minutes.

With a rich filling of peanut butter, often accompanied by whipped cream and peanuts, Virginia's Peanut Butter Pie is a smooth, nutty treat. It's a comforting slice of Americana that commands a near two-and-a-half-hour pilgrimage for enthusiasts of this creamy delight.

8. Wild Berry Pie, Alaska: 2 Hours 19 Minutes.

Alaska's Wild Berry Pie is as wild as the state itself. A mix of native berries, including blueberries, raspberries, and salmonberries, offers a bold flavor adventure. It's a pie that embodies the state's untamed spirit, tempting travelers with its natural, robust flavors.

9. Cactus Pie, Arizona: 2 Hours 16 Minutes.

The Cactus Pie, unique to Arizona, offers a taste of the desert with its sweet and slightly tart cactus fruit filling. This pie, often enhanced with citrus notes, is a testament to Arizona's inventive use of local ingredients, worth the journey through the desert.

10. Chocolate Cream Pie, Nevada: 2 hours 14 Minutes.

Nevada's Chocolate Cream Pie is decadence personified. Its luscious texture and velvety chocolate custard, topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings, make it a lavish indulgence - one that pie lovers deem worthy of a journey over two hours.

Other pies that made the rankings, showcasing the diverse and delicious spectrum of American pie-making, include the following:

Americans' love for pies goes beyond just the flavors; it's deeply rooted in tradition, nostalgia, and a sense of community. Pies are synonymous with celebration, comfort, and the gathering of loved ones, embodying the diversity and richness of the American culinary landscape. Each pie, with its unique blend of ingredients and flavors, tells a story of regional heritage and local pride. The willingness of people to travel hours to sample a traditional pie famous to a different state highlights the cultural significance of these desserts. It's a testament to the curiosity and appreciation for the culinary arts that pervades the American spirit. This enthusiasm for exploring and experiencing the best pies from across the country underscores a shared passion for discovery and a collective celebration of America's pie-making excellence. In essence, pies are more than just a treat; they are a cherished part of American culture, bringing people together in their shared love for this quintessential dessert.

Methodology: Online panel survey of 3,000 adults based on age, gender, and geography. Internal data sources are used to obtain population data sets. We used a two-step process to ensure representativeness through stratified sampling and post-stratification weighting. February 2024.