Flag holidays are excellent opportunities to educate people about America’s history. Flag Day and other flag-related holidays remind us of the path this country has taken and the values we continue to uphold. For example, Flag Day marks the anniversary of the adoption of the United States flag. Here’s an overview of Flag Day and other flag-related holidays in the U.S.
Flag Day: 64 Years in the Making
On June 14, 1885, a 19-year-old teacher named Bernard J. Cigrand encouraged his students to observe the U.S. flag’s “birthday.” After the story gained media attention, other educators and communities followed suit. Two years later, the New York Board of Education officially recognized Flag Day as a holiday.
In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson issued a proclamation to establish June 14 as Flag Day, encouraging all Americans to celebrate it. However, Congress did not make it an official holiday until 1949, when President Harry Truman signed an Act of Congress designating June 14 as National Flag Day each year.
Citizenship and History
Flag-related holidays are ideal opportunities to use the flag as a teaching tool for American history and civic pride. The American flag represents freedom, sacrifice, unity, and patriotism. The red stripes symbolize courage and the blood of those who gave their lives for the nation’s liberty, while the 50 stars represent each state in the Union.
How To Display Your Flag
On Flag Day and other patriotic holidays, proudly display your flag outside your home using one of our outdoor U.S. flag kits. Whether you display it temporarily or year-round, follow a few simple guidelines to show proper respect:
- When hanging a flag horizontally or vertically on a wall, the Union (blue field with stars) should always be in the upper left corner from the observer’s perspective.
- Never fasten, display, or store the flag in a way that allows it to become torn, soiled, or damaged.
- While some believe wearing the flag on clothing is disrespectful, the U.S. Flag Code allows it as long as the clothing is not made from an actual flag.
Flag-related holidays are the perfect excuse to wear your red, white, and blue proudly—whether it’s a star-spangled shirt or a patriotic hat.
Celebrating America
Flag Day, Memorial Day, and other national observances remind us of the sacrifices made for freedom and justice. A true patriot honors these days by showing respect for our national symbols and pride in our heritage. These holidays celebrate America’s independence and give us opportunities to reflect on—and learn more about—this great nation.