Every year on June 14th we celebrate the flag of the United States of America. This day is known as Flag Day and is celebrated across the US every year. Communities all over the country host parades and many other types of celebrations on this day to celebrate the roots of our nation. Even though Flag Day is not an official federal holiday, this celebration goes back to the earliest days of the republic.

In honor of Flag Day this year, we thought we would give you a quick run down of how Flag Day began and how we still celebrate today. 

The Beginning

On June 14, 1777, the Second Continental Congress adopted the flag of the United States. Two years prior, on June 14, 1775, Congress had established the American Continental Army. The early founders placed great importance on the flag because it was a symbol of the independence of a new nation, and a way to demonstrate our united purpose in fighting for our freedom.

Check out Everything You Need To Know About The American Flag here!

The idea of having a special day to recognize the flag itself as separate from Independence Day festivities dates back to 1885. A school teacher in Wisconsin arranged for his students to celebrate June 14th as the “Flag Birthday.” The event was covered by several newspapers and magazines, possibly leading to the celebrations we have today.

How Flag Day Became a National Idea

The idea of celebrating our flag's birthday continued to spread across the nation. By 1907, communities all over the country held Flag Day celebrations, especially with young children and throughout the schools.

In August 1949, President Harry Truman signed an Act of Congress officially designating every June 14th as Flag Day. Although it’s still not a federal holiday, Flag Day is a significant day to remember our most important national symbol and the history that made it.

Displaying Your Flag

Even if you couldn’t make it out to a parade or celebration in your city, you can still celebrate our country any time of the year and show your support at home by flying your own American Flags. This day specially designated by the Flag Code as a day for displaying the American flag. Here are some quick key elements to know when displaying your flag at home or anywhere else!

Flag Day is a time when we have a chance to not only honor the flag of the United States of America, but also all that the flag symbolizes, including honor, sacrifice, duty, independence, and liberty.