When Olympic athletes win, they’re typically coated of their house nation’s flag. Symbols akin to flags assist unite the plenty, reminding people of an even bigger goal. The flag of the US of America is not any exception to this rule.
In the present day (Sunday, June 14, 2026), America celebrates the celebs and stripes on Flag Day. Right here’s the whole lot it’s essential 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’s not a federal one. Flag Day all the time falls on June 14, so relying on the 12 months, 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 had 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 attainable that Ross did sew the primary American flag, it’s fascinating to notice that, throughout her lifetime, this was not documented. It’s identified that she did sew flags and moved in the identical social circles as Washington and Ross.
What artistic endeavors 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 over time, the ethos of it has remained the identical. The 13 purple and white stripes signify the unique colonies. The 50 white stars on a darkish blue background signify the states that make up our nation.
Hopkinson’s flag would encourage Francis Scott Key to put in writing “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 turned 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 trainer determined the event wanted celebrating. Bernard J. Cigrand completed this by assigning his class to put in writing essays on what the flag meant to them. He expanded his attain by giving lectures and writing his personal articles on the topic. The thought quickly unfold.
In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed that June 14 ought to henceforth be referred to 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 12 months marks America’s 250th birthday, celebrating the flag appears much more essential. Consider it as a warm-up to July 4.
It is usually President Trump’s eightieth birthday. To rejoice, 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.
