- Categories:
- Special Interest
- Tags:
- AppreciationCivicFederal
- Where:
- United States
- Date change rule:
- Week starting with the 2nd Sunday of June
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National Flag Week begins on the second Sunday of June each year, inviting all Americans to celebrate the U.S. flag. This week is a time to honor its history, recognize its designers, and appreciate its profound representation of the nation’s values. Display your flag proudly, learn about its rich past, and participate in local observances.
Want to sponsor National Flag Week? Learn how
Expected National Flag Week Deals
During National Flag Week, many retailers and organizations offer special promotions and events to honor the American flag and support veterans. Look for patriotic-themed merchandise from brands like Gettysburg Flag Works and Annin Flagmakers, who often highlight their American-made products. Retailers such as Walmart and Target typically feature flag-related decor and apparel. Veteran-owned businesses, often promoted by organizations like the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, may offer discounts or special events. Additionally, historical sites and museums, including the National Museum of American History, might host educational programs. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as June approaches.
Platform Guide for National Flag Week
X/Twitter
Mention @NatlToday and use #NationalFlagWeek. Share facts about the flag’s history or photos of your flag display.
Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #NationalFlagWeek. Post about local flag ceremonies or share stories of what the flag means to you.
Tag National Today (linkedin.com/company/nationaltoday) and use #NationalFlagWeek. Highlight corporate initiatives that support veterans or promote civic engagement.
National Flag Week Hero
Betsy Ross
History of National Flag Week
The first American flag was designed in 1775 and was called the Continental Colors. This was a flag created for a nation looking forward to its independence. But, unfortunately, the flag looked very similar to the British flag. Francis Hopkinson of New Jersey, a naval flag designer, and a signer of the Declaration of Independence took it upon himself to design a new flag. So, on June 14, 1777, the Second Continental Congress passed a resolution stating that the flag of the United States of America will have13 stripes, alternating in red and white, while the union of the states would be depicted by 13 stars in a blue field, representing a new constellation. In 1960, the 50-star flag came into being and this is the version of the flag that we see today. On July 4, 2006, it became the longest version of the flag in use.
In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson issued an official decree making June 14 as Flag Day. However, some think that the original Flag Day was celebrated much earlier. They believe that, in 1885, a school teacher named Bernard J. Cigrand in Wisconsin began the practice of celebrating the American flag’s birthday when he asked his class to write essays about the flag and its significance. Although Flag Day has been around for a long time, a presidential proclamation in 1966 announced National Flag Week, and it has been celebrated ever since.
National Flag Week timeline
The U.S. signs the Declaration of Independence on July 4.
Francis Scott Key writes ‘The Star-Spangled Banner’ — it becomes the national anthem of the U.S. in 1931.
Barry Bishop places the flag on the world’s highest peak, on Everest.
Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin place the flag on the Moon’s surface.
How Businesses Can Celebrate National Flag Week
Local businesses can honor National Flag Week by displaying the American flag prominently and correctly, adhering to federal flag code. Retailers might feature American-made products or offer special discounts to active military personnel and veterans. Restaurants could create patriotic-themed specials or donate a portion of sales to veteran support organizations. Consider hosting an educational event about flag history or etiquette for employees and customers, reinforcing civic pride.
National Flag Week FAQs
When is National Flag Week?
National Flag Week in 2027 will be observed from Sunday, June 13, to Saturday, June 19, encouraging a full week of reflection on the flag’s historical and symbolic importance.
What is the significance of the American flag's design?
The red stripes on the flag signify valor and bravery, the white symbolizes purity and innocence, and the blue represents vigilance, perseverance, and justice. This combination reflects the core ideals of the United States.
How many flags are displayed in the United States?
Estimates suggest that over 150 million American flags are sold annually, indicating a massive number in circulation and on display. The flag remains a ubiquitous symbol of national pride and identity.
What is the difference between Flag Day and National Flag Week?
While Flag Day is a single day of celebration, National Flag Week is a presidential proclamation that encourages Americans to display the flag for the entire week surrounding June 14. This expands the period for patriotic activities and education.
How to Observe National Flag Week
Hoist the flag
You can hoist the flag at your home or workplace during National Flag Week. This is the simplest way to observe the week.
Help raise awareness
Some organizations host local events and awareness workshops about the flag. You can attend one to learn more about the Stars and Stripes.
Watch patriotic movies
The American flag also embodies national pride. You can watch your favorite patriotic movies every night of the week for National Flag Week.
5 Facts About Flags That Will Blow Your Mind
Flags are studied
The study of flags is called vexillology, and those who study flags are vexillologists.
Denmark’s flag is the oldest
Denmark’s flag is the oldest in the world and has been around since 1625.
Sudan’s flag is the newest
The Sudanese flag is the newest in the world — it was adopted in July 2010.
Nepal’s flag has a unique shape
Nepal’s flag is the only flag in the world that is neither a rectangle nor a square.
There are only two square flags
Only Switzerland and the Vatican City have square flags.
Why National Flag Week is Important
It is part of being American
The flag is an important part of the American identity. National Flag Week honors the flag and the unity among all American states.
It celebrates American greatness
The flag has made its way to two extreme poles, the peak of Mount Everest and even the Moon! National Flag Week, therefore, also celebrates the greatness of America and the feats of its people.
It honors the armed forces
The flag has been defended by the armed forces and many have even laid down their lives for it. This is a week to honor the brave soldiers who make sure that the American flag always flies high.
National Flag Week dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | June 14–20 | Sunday–Saturday |
| 2027 | June 13–19 | Sunday–Saturday |
| 2028 | June 11–17 | Sunday–Saturday |
| 2029 | June 10–16 | Sunday–Saturday |
| 2030 | June 9–15 | Sunday–Saturday |
Social Media Tips for National Flag Week
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