When Olympic athletes win, they’re typically lined of their dwelling nation’s flag. Symbols similar to flags assist unite the lots, reminding people of an even bigger function. The flag of the USA of America is not any exception to this rule.
Immediately (Sunday, June 14, 2026), America celebrates the celebrities and stripes on Flag Day. Right here’s all the things that you must learn about this observance, together with how President Trump is celebrating.
Is that this a federal vacation?
No. Whereas Flag Day is a nationwide vacation, it isn’t a federal one. Flag Day at all times falls on June 14, so relying on the yr, banks can keep open and mail can get delivered. Since it’s on a Sunday in 2026, these guidelines don’t apply.
What about Betsy Ross?
Many People have been taught at school that Betsy Ross sewed the first American flag in 1776 when requested to take action by George Washington, Robert Morris, and Colonel George Ross.
The reality is a little more difficult. Whereas it is vitally doable that Ross did sew the primary American flag, it’s attention-grabbing to notice that, throughout her lifetime, this was not documented. It’s recognized that she did sew flags and moved in the identical social circles as Washington and Ross.
What artworks and patriotism have the American flag impressed?
No matter Betsy Ross’s involvement, most historians agree that the unique design got here from Francis Hopkinson. He served as a congressman from New Jersey and signed the Declaration of Independence.
Whereas the design has had small adjustments through the years, the ethos of it has remained the identical. The 13 pink and white stripes symbolize the unique colonies. The 50 white stars on a darkish blue background symbolize the states that make up our nation.
Hopkinson’s flag would encourage Francis Scott Key to write down “The Star-Spangled Banner.” Key noticed the symbol wave after surviving a full day of the British bombing of Fort McHenry in 1814. This finally grew to become our Nationwide Anthem in 1931.
A quick historical past of Flag Day
Flag Day celebrates the exact day when the Second Continental Congress handed a decision, formally declaring its banner.
The day glided by largely unmarked for a few years, till 1885, when a instructor determined the event wanted celebrating. Bernard J. Cigrand achieved this by assigning his class to write down essays on what the flag meant to them. He expanded his attain by giving lectures and writing his personal articles on the topic. The concept quickly unfold.
In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed that June 14 ought to henceforth be generally known as Flag Day. In 1949, President Harry S. Truman made it much more official by signing an act of Congress. This new regulation established June 14 Nationwide Flag Day.
How is President Trump observing Flag Day?
As this yr marks America’s 250th birthday, celebrating the flag appears much more vital. Consider it as a warm-up to July 4.
It’s also President Trump’s eightieth birthday. To have a good time, the soon-to-be octogenarian had a UFC ring called “the Claw” constructed on the South Garden of the White Home.
If the climate and authorized objections stay favorable, American Justin Gaethje will face Georgian Ilia Topuria for the light-weight title. Brazilian Alex Pereira will tackle France’s Ciryl Gane within the heavyweight class.
In the meantime, protesters will maintain “Rise Up, Sing Out,” a star-studded political live performance in New York Metropolis. Watch events will stream nationwide.
