American Flag Holidays: When to Proudly Display the Stars and Stripes
The American flag is a powerful symbol of unity, freedom, and pride in the United States. On certain holidays, known as flag holidays, citizens are encouraged to display the flag prominently to honor significant moments in the nation’s history and values. Below is a guide to the designated U.S. flag holidays and the traditions associated with them.
U.S. Flag Holidays
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New Year's Day (January 1)
Kick off the year by flying the flag to celebrate new beginnings and national unity. -
Inauguration Day (January 20, every four years)
Following a presidential election, display the flag to mark the peaceful transition of leadership. -
Martin Luther King Jr. Day (Third Monday in January)
Honor the civil rights leader’s legacy by raising the flag in recognition of equality and justice. -
Lincoln's Birthday (February 12)
Commemorate President Abraham Lincoln’s contributions to the nation by displaying the flag. -
Washington's Birthday (Presidents' Day, Third Monday in February)
Celebrate the first U.S. president and other leaders with a proud display of the Stars and Stripes. -
Easter Sunday (Date varies)
Fly the flag on this day of renewal and reflection, a significant holiday for many Americans. -
Mother's Day (Second Sunday in May)
Show appreciation for mothers by displaying the flag in their honor. -
Armed Forces Day (Third Saturday in May)
Pay tribute to the men and women serving in the military with a prominent flag display. -
Memorial Day (Last Monday in May)
Honor fallen heroes by flying the flag at half-staff until noon, then raising it to full staff for the rest of the day. -
Flag Day (June 14)
Celebrate the adoption of the American flag with a proud and prominent display. -
Father's Day (Third Sunday in June)
Recognize fathers across the nation by flying the flag in their honor. -
Independence Day (July 4)
Mark the birth of the United States with a vibrant display of the flag, symbolizing freedom and independence. -
National Korean War Veterans Armistice Day (July 27)
Honor the veterans of the Korean War by displaying the flag on this day of remembrance. -
Labor Day (First Monday in September)
Celebrate the contributions of American workers with a proud flag display. -
Patriot Day (September 11)
Remember the lives lost in the 9/11 attacks by flying the flag at half-staff. -
Constitution Day (September 17)
Commemorate the signing of the U.S. Constitution by raising the flag. -
Columbus Day (Second Monday in October)
Honor the exploration of the Americas with a flag display. -
Navy Day (October 27)
Celebrate the U.S. Navy’s service and contributions by flying the flag. -
Veterans Day (November 11)
Pay tribute to all veterans by prominently displaying the flag. -
Thanksgiving Day (Fourth Thursday in November)
Give thanks for the nation’s blessings with a flag display. -
Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day (December 7)
Remember the lives lost in the 1941 attack by flying the flag at half-staff. -
Christmas Day (December 25)
Celebrate the holiday season with a festive flag display. -
State Birthdays
Fly the flag on the anniversary of your state’s admission to the Union to celebrate its unique place in the nation.
Additional Flag Days
In addition to these holidays, the flag should be displayed on days proclaimed by the President of the United States and on state holidays as designated by individual individual states. These occasions may vary, so stay informed about local and national proclamations.
Displaying the Flag with Respect
When displaying the flag, follow proper etiquette. For example, on Memorial Day and Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day, the flag is flown at half-staff until noon (or all day, as specified) to honor the fallen. Always ensure the flag is in good condition and displayed respectfully, reflecting its significance as a national symbol.
By flying the American flag on these designated days, you join millions of Americans in celebrating the nation’s history, values, and heroes. Let the Stars and Stripes wave proudly!