★ Flag Day: The Complete Guide to America's Star-Spangled Celebration
June 14 marks the birthday of the American flag — the day in 1777 when the Continental Congress adopted the Stars and Stripes as the official flag of the United States. Flag Day is a time to honor the history, meaning, and traditions behind Old Glory, from Barnard Cigrand's classroom crusade to the 50 stars that represent every state in the Union.
What Is Flag Day?
Flag Day commemorates the adoption of the Stars and Stripes as the official flag of the United States on June 14, 1777. On that day, the Continental Congress resolved: "Resolved, that the Flag of the thirteen United States shall be thirteen stripes, alternate red and white; that the Union be thirteen stars, white on a blue field, representing a new constellation." While not a federal holiday, Flag Day is observed nationwide with ceremonies, parades, and flag displays. The week surrounding June 14 is designated National Flag Week, calling on all Americans to display the flag.
Quick Fact: Pennsylvania is the only state that recognizes Flag Day as a state holiday. In 1937, it became the first (and remains the only) state to make June 14 a legal holiday.
Six Ways to Explore Flag Day
History & Origins
From Betsy Ross to Bernard Cigrand — the complete story of how the American flag was born and how Flag Day became a national observance.
Customs & Traditions
How Americans celebrate: flag-raising ceremonies, parades, the Pledge of Allegiance, and school patriotic programs across the nation.
Food & Fun
Red, white, and blue recipes from patriotic berry trifle to flag fruit skewers. Plus family crafts and backyard BBQ ideas.
Symbols & Poetry
The meaning behind the 13 stripes and 50 stars, the Star-Spangled Banner story, and classic American flag poetry.
Events & Celebrations
The oldest Flag Day parades in Quincy, MA and Appleton, WI, museum exhibits, flag retirement ceremonies, and community gatherings.
Flag Etiquette
Complete US Flag Code rules: how to display, fold, and retire the flag. What to do and what never to do with Old Glory.
Key Dates in Flag History
| Date | Event | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| June 14, 1777 | Continental Congress adopts flag resolution | Official birth of the Stars and Stripes |
| 1795 | 15 stars and 15 stripes (Vermont & Kentucky) | Flag that inspired the National Anthem |
| 1814 | Francis Scott Key writes "Star-Spangled Banner" | Witnessed flag flying over Fort McHenry |
| 1818 | Congress fixes stripes at 13, adds stars for states | Permanent flag design rule established |
| 1885 | Bernard Cigrand holds first Flag Day class | Birth of the Flag Day movement |
| 1916 | President Wilson proclaims first Flag Day | National observance begins |
| 1949 | Congress makes Flag Day official | Truman signs Flag Day bill into law |
| 1960 | 50th star added for Hawaii | Current version of the flag |
Flag Day vs. Independence Day
| Comparison | Flag Day (June 14) | Independence Day (July 4) |
|---|---|---|
| Commemorates | Adoption of the flag design (1777) | Adoption of Declaration of Independence (1776) |
| Federal Holiday? | No — federal offices open | Yes — federal offices closed |
| State Holidays | Only Pennsylvania | All 50 states |
| Typical Celebrations | Flag ceremonies, school programs, parades | Fireworks, BBQs, concerts, parades |
| Flag Display | Encouraged on all buildings | Universal display across America |
★ Discover the Full Story of Old Glory
From a schoolteacher's desk in Wisconsin to every state in the Union — explore the rich history of Flag Day.
Explore History →