Flag Day falls on June 14 each year in the United States. It marks the day in 1777 when the Continental Congress adopted the first American flag design. This original flag had 13 stripes and 13 stars, representing the 13 colonies.
Flag Day is not a federal holiday but is observed across the country. People take part in parades and essay contests. The Stars and Stripes are displayed on homes, businesses, and public buildings.
The day received official recognition when President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed it in 1916. Later, in 1949, President Harry Truman signed a law making June 14 Flag Day. The entire week around this date is known as National Flag Week.
You can honor Flag Day by flying the U.S. flag at your home or workplace. Take time to learn about the flag’s history and how it changed through 27 versions since 1777.
