National Yellow Pig Day
National Yellow Pig Day is a quirky and fun holiday celebrated annually on July 17. Despite its name, it isn’t about pigs but rather a celebration of the number 17 and its unique mathematical properties. The day originated in the 1960s when two mathematicians, Michael Spivak and David Kelly, created the concept of a mythical yellow pig with 17 features to honor their fascination with this prime number.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: July 17
- Tagged as: Fun & Games, Science & Technology, Weird & Obscure
- What’s the hashtag?: #NationalYellowPigDay
- When was it founded?: 1960s
- Who founded it?: Michael Spivak and David Kelly
History of National Yellow Pig Day
The holiday was born from the mathematical musings of Spivak and Kelly at Princeton University. While delving into the peculiarities of the number 17, they created a whimsical mascot—a yellow pig with 17 toes, teeth, and eyelashes. Over time, this lighthearted celebration became a staple in academic circles, particularly among mathematicians. Today, it’s marked by activities like singing “yellow pig carols,” baking themed cakes, and solving math puzzles.
Timeline
- 1960s: Michael Spivak and David Kelly create Yellow Pig Day while studying the number 17.
- 1977: The carol “The March of the Yellow Pig” is composed.
- 1980s: David Kelly establishes Hampshire College Summer Studies in Mathematics (HCSSiM), incorporating Yellow Pig Day celebrations.
- 2000s-Present: The holiday gains popularity among math enthusiasts worldwide.
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | July 17 | Thursday |
| 2026 | July 17 | Friday |
| 2027 | July 17 | Saturday |
| 2028 | July 17 | Monday |
| 2029 | July 17 | Tuesday |
| 2030 | July 17 | Wednesday |
Observed
National Yellow Pig Day is celebrated with mathematical-themed activities such as exploring the properties of the number 17, creating yellow pig crafts, and even organizing parades or gatherings. Academic institutions often host lectures or events to commemorate this day.
Fun Facts About National Yellow Pig Day
- The number 17 is the sum of the first four prime numbers (2, 3, 5, and 7).
- It’s also the minimum number of clues required for a Sudoku puzzle to have a unique solution.
- In Italy, however, the number 17 is considered unlucky!
Quiz
- What is the mascot of National Yellow Pig Day?
- Which two mathematicians founded this holiday?
- What mathematical property makes the number 17 special?
(Answers:)
- A yellow pig with 17 features
- Michael Spivak and David Kelly
- It is a prime number and the sum of the first four prime numbers.
FAQs
- Why celebrate the number 17?
The founders were captivated by its mathematical significance and unique properties. - Why a yellow pig?
The reason remains unclear but adds an element of whimsy to the celebration. - How can I celebrate?
Create yellow pig crafts, solve math puzzles involving 17, or bake a themed cake!
Related
- Prime Number Day
- Pi Day (March 14)
- World Math Day