How Many Days Until Flag Day: Precise National Holiday Timer
Tracking the time remaining until the next celebration of Old Glory.
Why Do We Celebrate Flag Day?
Understanding the history and heritage of the American flag
The 1777 Resolution
It commemorates the adoption of the United States flag on June 14, 1777, by the Second Continental Congress.
Old Glory
The nickname "Old Glory" was given to a specific flag by William Driver, a sea captain from Massachusetts.
The Schoolroom
The first recorded school celebration occurred in 1885, led by B.J. Cigrand in Waubeka, Wisconsin.
Woodrow Wilson
In 1916, President Wilson issued a proclamation that officially established June 14th as Flag Day.
Truman's Law
National Flag Day was signed into law by President Harry S. Truman in 1949 as an act of Congress.
Civic Pride
While not a federal holiday in all states, it is a day of deep civic pride across the entire nation.
What Is Proper Flag Etiquette?
Respectful ways to display and handle the national ensign
Sunrise to Sunset
Standard etiquette suggests displaying the flag only from sunrise to sunset on buildings.
Night Lighting
If a flag is displayed at night, it should be properly illuminated by a dedicated light source.
Touching Ground
The flag should never touch anything beneath it, such as the ground, floor, or water.
Inclement Weather
The flag should not be displayed on days when the weather is inclement, unless an all-weather flag is used.
Folding Care
When taken down, the flag should be folded into a triangle with only the union (blue field) showing.
Retirement
When a flag is worn out, it should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning.
Where Did the Symbolism Begin?
Decoding the meaning behind the colors and the stars
The Red Stripes
Red stands for hardiness and valor, representing the courage of the American people.
The White Stripes
White symbolizes purity and innocence, reflecting the high ideals of the new republic.
The Blue Field
The blue "Union" signifies vigilance, perseverance, and justice for all citizens.
The 50 Stars
Each star represents a single state, joined together in a permanent and perfect union.
13 Stripes
The thirteen horizontal stripes represent the original 13 colonies that declared independence.
Design Origin
While often credited to Betsy Ross, historians suggest Francis Hopkinson was the true designer.