American flag Labor Day display with the flag waving on a tall pole against an open rural landscape.

American Flag Holidays: A Guide To When And Why We Celebrate

American flag holidays are special days of the year when Americans pay tribute to their nation’s ideals by honoring the flag. For over a century, citizens have upheld American flag traditions by flying the Stars and Stripes on these occasions as a sign of unity and patriotism. Each such day is a celebration of the country’s history, values, and the people who have shaped them. In fact, U.S. law (the Flag Code) specifically encourages displaying the flag on all federal and state holidays as well as other notable days. This guide will explore all national flag holidays, explaining when they occur, why they are significant, and how Americans properly display the flag on each of them.

Traditional American flag waving in the breeze above a white picket fence and green lawn.

Flag Etiquette and Proper Display of the U.S. Flag

Before diving into the holidays themselves, it’s important to understand the flag rules and etiquette that govern the treatment of the U.S. flag. The United States Flag Code, first adopted in 1923 and later passed into law by Congress in 1942, outlines the proper way to display the American flag and handle it with respect. Below are some key flag courtesy practices mandated by tradition and the Flag Code:

  • Do not let the flag touch the ground or any surface beneath it. Allowing it to drag or fall to the ground is considered disrespectful.

  • Never use the flag as clothing, bedding, or drapery. The flag should not be worn or used to cover tables, podiums, or ceilings (bunting in flag colors is used for decoration instead).

  • Avoid using the flag or its image for advertising or on disposable items. The flag shouldn’t be printed on paper plates, napkins, or anything intended for temporary use and discard.

  • Retire worn-out flags respectfully. When a flag becomes tattered or faded, the proper protocol is to destroy it in a dignified way.

These flag courtesy rules help maintain a universal standard for showing respect to the flag across the country. No matter the occasion, following the proper guidelines – the correct way to display a flag and handle it – is a way for Americans to demonstrate their patriotism and reverence.

Winter and Early-Year Flag Holidays (January–February)

  • New Year’s Day: The year begins with Americans displaying the flag on New Year’s Day to symbolize hope and unity for the future. Flying the flag on the first day of the year has been encouraged since the Flag Code was established. It’s a way to mark a fresh start while honoring the country’s enduring principles. Many communities raise the flag at sunrise on January 1st as a symbol of optimism as they enter the new year.

  • Martin Luther King Jr. Day: This day honors Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., the civil rights leader, and became a federal holiday in 1986. On MLK Day, government buildings, schools, and many private citizens display the flag to reflect the unity and equality that Dr. King stood for. Although it’s a relatively recent holiday, it’s treated with the same respect in terms of flag display. Americans use this day not only to remember Dr. King’s legacy but also to show that the flag represents justice and freedom for all.

  • Inauguration Day (January 20, every four years): Inauguration Day is the day the President of the United States is sworn into office. Whenever it occurs (every four years, following a presidential election), it is a day of national celebration of democratic continuity. The U.S. flag is prominently displayed during inauguration ceremonies in Washington, D.C., and across the country to signify the peaceful transfer of power. Even though it’s not an annual holiday, the Flag Code specifically lists Inauguration Day as a day to fly the flag.

  • Washington’s Birthday (Third Monday in February): Originally celebrated on February 22 (George Washington’s actual birthday), this holiday now commonly falls on the third Monday in February and is known as Presidents’ Day. It honors George Washington, the first U.S. President, and, unofficially, all U.S. presidents. On this day, the American flag is widely displayed to commemorate Washington’s contributions as the nation’s founding leader. Many states also use Presidents’ Day to honor Abraham Lincoln and other presidents, so it encapsulates broader presidential appreciation. Flags are often displayed on this day at government sites, schools, and businesses, signifying gratitude for the leadership that helped shape the country. By flying the flag on Presidents’ Day, Americans show respect for the presidency as an institution and the traditional American flag that links the past to the present.

Spring Flag Holidays (March–May)

National Vietnam War Veterans Day

One of the newer observances, March 29, is designated to honor veterans of the Vietnam War. Added to the official U.S. flag display calendar in 2017, this day recognizes the sacrifices of Vietnam veterans. While it is not as widely known by the general public, on March 29, you may see flags flown, especially at veterans’ memorials, VA hospitals, and military bases. It’s a chance for the nation to acknowledge Vietnam War servicemembers and welcome them home symbolically, specifically. Flying the flag on this day shows respect and thanks to those veterans.

Army Day

Though not a federal holiday today, Army Day was historically observed on April 6 to honor the U.S. Army’s contributions. It originated in the 1940s, marking the date the U.S. entered World War I in 1917. While Army Day isn’t widely celebrated now, some military organizations still note April 6. The flag may be displayed at Army bases or by veterans’ groups to acknowledge the service of soldiers. This observance has largely been subsumed by Armed Forces Day in May, but it remains a noted date in some calendars for flag display.

Peace Officers Memorial Day

This is a solemn observance honoring law enforcement officers who have died or been disabled in the line of duty. By law, Peace Officers Memorial Day is one of the few occasions when the flag is flown at half-staff for the entire day. On May 15, flags at police stations, government buildings, and other locations are lowered to honor fallen police and peace officers. The day is part of National Police Week, and ceremonies are held in Washington, D.C., and across the country. The flag etiquette today for this day is particular: the flag should be at half-staff from sunrise to sunset, as a sign of mourning and respect.

Armed Forces Day

Armed Forces Day was established in 1949 to honor Americans serving in all branches of the military (Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, and Coast Guard). It falls on a Saturday and is not a public holiday, where offices are closed, but it is widely recognized with events on military bases and in communities. On Armed Forces Day, the flag is flown to salute the men and women currently in uniform. You might see military displays, air shows, or parades on this day, all accompanied by the American flag. By flying the flag on Armed Forces Day, Americans demonstrate their appreciation for the dedication and service of those who defend the nation. It’s also a day when new recruits might be sworn in at public ceremonies, taking their oath under the flag.

Memorial Day

Memorial Day is one of the most important American flag holidays. Originally known as Decoration Day, it evolved into a day to honor all those who have died in military service. Observed on the last Monday of May, Memorial Day is a time of both remembrance and reflection. One unique flag tradition sets this day apart: U.S. flags are flown at half-staff from sunrise until noon, and then raised briskly to full-staff for the remainder of the day. The half-staff in the morning honors the nation’s fallen heroes; at noon, raising the flag symbolizes the resolve of the living to continue the fight for freedom.

USA flag makers' quality flag shown flying high on a metal pole against a clear blue sky.

Summer Flag Holidays (June–August)

Flag Day

This is the birthday of the U.S. flag itself. On June 14, 1777, the Second Continental Congress passed a resolution adopting the stars and stripes as the flag of the United States. Today, Flag Day commemorates that historic event and is devoted entirely to celebrating our national banner. It’s not a federal holiday, but it is a national observance. Many towns hold American flag traditions like Flag Day parades, flag-raising ceremonies, and essay contests for children about what the flag means to them. Schools often organize patriotic programs on June 14, and the President typically issues a Flag Day proclamation. In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson first declared June 14 as Flag Day, and in 1949, Congress permanently established the National Flag Day observance. On Flag Day, Americans are encouraged to fly the flag at their homes and businesses. Historic places such as the Betsy Ross House in Philadelphia celebrate with special events.

Juneteenth

Juneteenth National Independence Day is the newest U.S. federal holiday, officially added in 2021. It commemorates June 19, 1865, when news of the Emancipation Proclamation finally reached enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, effectively marking the end of slavery in the United States. Although Juneteenth has been celebrated within African American communities since the late 19th century, its elevation to a national holiday now means it is also a flag-flying day. On June 19, you’ll see the American flag raised to celebrate freedom and to recognize the progress from slavery to civil rights.

Independence Day

The Fourth of July is arguably the most famous flag holiday of all. Independence Day marks the anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. It is a federal holiday and a day of national celebration – and the American flag is everywhere. Streets are lined with flags, citizens wear flag-themed attire (though technically the Flag Code discourages using the actual flag as clothing, patriotic designs are popular), and virtually every parade, picnic, and fireworks show is adorned with red, white, and blue. On this day, the flag symbolizes the very birth of the nation. Towns host American flag celebration events, such as flag-raising ceremonies in the morning, followed by parades featuring veterans and floats adorned with flags. By nightfall, fireworks light up the sky, often with an American flag waving below. The Fourth of July is a time when even those who might not display the flag regularly will hoist one up, whether on a tall flagpole or hung from a porch, to show their love of country.

Labor Day

Labor Day honors the contributions and achievements of American workers and the labor movement. It became a federal holiday in 1894 after labor unions had advocated for recognition of workers’ rights. Often considered the unofficial end of summer, Labor Day weekend is celebrated with barbecues, parades, and sometimes fireworks. Importantly, it is also a national flag holiday – the Flag Code encourages flying the flag on Labor Day to recognize the role workers have played in building the nation. You will see the flag carried in Labor Day parades by union members and civic groups. Many government buildings that are usually closed on a Monday holiday will still have their flags hoisted. Families and businesses also often keep their flags waving during the long weekend. American flag Labor Day displays might not be as universally present on the 4th of July, but they are common, especially at public events.

Fall Flag Holidays ( –December)

  • Patriot Day (September 11): Patriot Day is the annual day of remembrance for the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001. It is not a federal holiday with office closures, but by law, it is a day when the flag is to be flown at half-staff from sunrise to sunset in memory of the nearly 3,000 people who lost their lives on 9/11. On every September 11, you will see the U.S. flag at half-staff at the White House, U.S. Capitol, and all public buildings and grounds across the country. Many individuals also lower their flags at home as a sign of mourning. Additionally, at 8:46 a.m. (the time the first plane struck the World Trade Center), moments of silence are observed, often with people gathered around flagpoles in communities for brief ceremonies. The name “Patriot Day” symbolizes the unity and resilience Americans showed after the tragedy, and the flag at half-mast is the poignant centerpiece of the commemorations. Some cities illuminate buildings with red, white, and blue lights or unfurl huge flags down the sides of buildings in tribute. Patriot Day has joined the pantheon of American flag holidays as a day of both grief and solidarity, forever marked by the image of the flag amid the rubble.

  • Constitution Day (September 17): Also known as Citizenship Day, it marks the anniversary of the signing of the U.S. Constitution on September 17, 1787. It is an official observance (and since 2004, schools receiving federal funds are required to hold educational programs on this day). While not widely celebrated outside of educational settings, Constitution Day is indeed a recommended day for flag-flying. The American flag is an apt symbol on this occasion because the Constitution is the document that defines the republic the flag represents. Some places hold naturalization ceremonies on September 17 for new citizens, often with many flags on display as these new Americans take the Oath of Allegiance. Historic sites like the National Archives (home of the Constitution) or Philadelphia’s Independence Hall may have special events, with flags prominently featured.

  • Columbus Day: Columbus Day marks the landing of Christopher Columbus in the Americas on October 12, 1492. It became a federal holiday, traditionally observed on October 12 and now on the second Monday of October. In recent years, some states and cities have replaced or combined it with Indigenous Peoples’ Day to acknowledge Native American history. However, as a federal holiday, Columbus Day is still officially recognized and is listed in the Flag Code as a day for flag display. Historically, Columbus Day has been seen as a celebration of exploration and Italian-American heritage (since Columbus was Italian). Parades in cities like New York often include many American flags alongside Italian flags and parade floats. Government offices close, and the flag is flown at full staff (unless otherwise directed). For those who still observe Columbus Day, flying the flag is a nod to the spirit of discovery and the subsequent waves of immigration that shaped the nation. In places that instead honor Indigenous Peoples’ Day, the flag is also appropriate as a symbol of unity and acknowledgement of all cultures under one nation. Regardless of perspective, the day prompts reflection on American history, and the flag is a fitting emblem to display during that discussion.

  • Navy Day: It was largely popular before Armed Forces Day was created in 1949, and before the Navy’s official birthday (October 13, 1775) was more widely recognized. While the Navy itself now primarily marks October 13 as its birthday, some traditionalists and naval organizations still note October 27 as Navy Day. The Flag Code lists Navy Day as a day for displaying the flag, especially to recognize naval service. In port cities or towns with naval bases, you might see tributes on this date – for instance, special tours on museum ships, or local proclamations – always with the American flag flying high (often alongside naval flags like the U.S. Navy Jack). For the average American, Navy Day might pass without notice, but anyone with a Navy connection will likely put out the flag in honor. The day is another opportunity to thank those who serve at sea under the American flag, protecting the nation’s interests on the world’s oceans.

  • Marine Corps Birthday: The U.S. Marine Corps celebrates its founding on November 10, 1775. While not a flag “holiday” per se, the Marine Corps Birthday is a big deal within the Corps – marked by balls, cake-cutting ceremonies, and remembrance of fallen Marines. Marines and their families often display the U.S. flag and the Marine Corps flag on this day. Publicly, there isn’t a national directive to fly flags (because it’s not a federal observance for all). Still, given that November 10 comes one day before Veterans Day, flags are usually up anyway in anticipation.

As we’ve seen, the United States flag is at the heart of many holidays and observances – from grand celebrations like Independence Day to quiet moments of remembrance like Pearl Harbor Day. Each of these American flag holidays serves as a touchpoint for Americans to reflect on their history, values, and shared identity. The flag’s presence on these days is far more than decoration; it is a powerful unifying symbol that speaks a language of its own. A flag at half-staff conveys sorrow and respect without a single word. A flag rippling at full-staff against a blue sky on a joyous occasion embodies pride and hope.

Today, obtaining a quality flag and related accessories is easier than ever, and many Americans take pride in owning flags made right here at home. There are dedicated USA flag makers and patriotic flag suppliers, such as Show Allegiance, that offer high-quality flags crafted with American workmanship. Some even provide custom American flags for special purposes. By choosing flags from these sources, citizens ensure that the symbols they display are made with the care and respect they deserve. More importantly, each person who flies the flag becomes a steward of the flag’s dignity. Taking the time to know the rules of the American flag is part of that stewardship.

Custom American flags set featuring a Texas flag, mounting hardware, and branded storage pouch on a neutral background.

All these national flag holidays, with their historical backgrounds and distinctive customs, collectively reinforce what the American flag stands for: a free nation’s gratitude, remembrance, unity, and hope. By actively participating in these observances and following flag etiquette, every American can help keep the flag’s spirit alive. The calendar may move from New Year’s Day to Christmas, but the flag’s stars and stripes remain a constant, rallying us to celebrate, to remember, and to look ahead with resolve. So the next time a flag holiday approaches, don’t hesitate to unfurl the red, white, and blue. In doing so, you join millions in a nationwide tribute – one that began with the founding of our country and that, with care and honor, will endure for generations to come.

Sources

— Casandra Tayag
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