Flag Day
| Year | Day | Date | Days To |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | Sun | June 14, 2026 | 113 days |
| 2027 | Mon | June 14, 2027 | 478 days |
| 2028 | Wed | June 14, 2028 | 844 days |
| 2029 | Thu | June 14, 2029 | 1209 days |
| 2030 | Fri | June 14, 2030 | 1574 days |
| 2031 | Sat | June 14, 2031 | 1939 days |
| 2032 | Mon | June 14, 2032 | 2305 days |
| 2033 | Tue | June 14, 2033 | 2670 days |
| 2034 | Wed | June 14, 2034 | 3035 days |
| 2035 | Thu | June 14, 2035 | 3400 days |
On June 14, the United States observes a holiday dedicated solely to its national banner. This date marks the anniversary of the Flag Resolution of 1777. It is not a federal holiday in the strict sense, meaning businesses usually stay open, but it holds immense historical significance across the country. Pennsylvania stands out as the only state that recognizes it as a legal state holiday. The day focuses on the heritage, design, and enduring symbolism of the American flag.
The Resolution of 1777
During the American Revolutionary War, the Second Continental Congress recognized the need for a unified symbol. On June 14, 1777, they passed a resolution stating that the flag of the United States be made of 13 stripes, alternate red and white. They also decreed that the union be 13 stars, white in a blue field, representing a new constellation. This pivotal decision replaced the Grand Union Flag, which still featured the British Union Jack.
Bernard J. Cigrand: The Father of Flag Day
While the flag existed for over a century, a specific day to honor it came much later. A schoolteacher from Wisconsin named Bernard J. Cigrand is widely credited with establishing the tradition. In 1885, he arranged for his students at Stony Hill School to celebrate the flag’s birthday. Cigrand spent decades writing articles and delivering speeches to promote national recognition. His persistent efforts eventually caught the attention of government officials.
| Date | Key Event | Historical Figure |
|---|---|---|
| June 14, 1777 | Adoption of the Stars and Stripes | Continental Congress |
| May 30, 1916 | First Presidential Proclamation | Woodrow Wilson |
| August 3, 1949 | Act of Congress signing | Harry S. Truman |
| July 4, 1960 | Introduction of the 50-star flag | Robert G. Heft (Designer) |
Evolution of the Design
The American flag has changed its appearance 27 times since 1777. The original rule added both a stripe and a star for every new state. However, lawmakers realized this would make the flag too cluttered. The Flag Act of 1818 restored the design to 13 stripes honoring the original colonies and allowed only stars to increase. The current version, which has flown the longest, features 50 stars arranged in staggered rows. It was officially adopted after Hawaii gained statehood.
Meaning of the Colors
The colors used in the flag were not chosen randomly. Charles Thomson, secretary of the Continental Congress, described their specific meanings for the Great Seal, which apply to the flag as well. Red symbolizes hardiness and valor. White represents purity and innocence. Blue signifies vigilance, perseverance, and justice. These definitions frame the flag not just as cloth, but as a living representation of national values.
The Betsy Ross Narrative
A popular narrative suggests that Betsy Ross sewed the first flag at the request of George Washington. While she was indeed a flag maker in Philadelphia, no contemporary records from the revolutionary era confirm this story. It first appeared publicly in 1870, nearly a century later, promoted by her grandson. Historians often point to Francis Hopkinson, a signer of the Declaration of Independence, as the likely designer.
National Flag Week
In 1966, President Lyndon B. Johnson expanded the observance. He issued a proclamation designating the week beginning June 14 as National Flag Week. During this period, the president typically urges U.S. citizens to display the flag outside their homes and businesses. Government buildings fly the flag all week long. This extension allows for broader education regarding flag etiquette and history in schools.