The American flag is more than just cloth. For more than 200 years, it has flown through wars and celebrations and times of deep national reflection and is a symbol of freedom, sacrifice, unity and national pride. Right now America is preparing to celebrate its 250th birthday, the Semi quincentennial, and it is now a more fitting time to learn how to demonstrate and respect the Stars and Stripes.
This is the American flag 101 for both new and seasoned flag owners, including all the rules of the flag, flag history, and flag care.
Why Flag Etiquette Still Matters in 2026
As the world races on at lightning speed, the meaning and traditions behind the American flag haven't changed. It's not the rules of flag etiquette for the sake of the rules. It's about respect for the people who sacrificed for this nation to remain free, and it's about the values that the flag stands for.
Patriotic celebration 250th events will take place throughout the country, and millions of Americans will be “waving the red, white, and blue” at their homes, businesses, schools, and community events. It's important to get it right.
The Living Symbol Behind the Stars and Stripes
There have been 27 official flag designs of the American flag since the first flag was adopted in 1777. The stars are a single star for each state and the stripes are one for each of the original 13 colonies. This history helps to put each display into perspective and gives it meaning.
Understanding the US Flag Code
In 1942, the US Flag Code was passed to offer official rules for displaying, handling, and respecting the American flag. Violations are not criminal acts for private citizens, but a respectful behavior that is fundamental in the patriotic attitude.
Core Rules Every American Should Know
A compilation of the most important rules for American citizens to learn. These are the basic rules that are set forth in the US Flag Code and any flag owner should follow:
- The flag should never lie on the ground, floor, water or any object below it.
- Should never be used in clothing, drapery or bedding.
- Should never be exhibited with the union down, other than as a distress signal.
- If flown along with other flags, the American flag shall always be in the position of honour, that is, at the centre or to its right.
- If a flag is tattered, damaged or faded it should be retired properly and not thrown in the trash.
Flag Orientation and Proper Positioning
If the flag is being displayed on a wall, the union (blue field with stars) will always be on the upper left hand side of the wall as viewed from the audience. This can be either vertical or horizontal. The flag shall be displayed free of obstruction with the flagpole free of any obstruction and the flag extended outward and upward at a natural angle when mounted on a bracket from a porch or building.
How to Display the American Flag at Home and in Public
Perhaps one of the most frequently asked questions flag owners have is how to properly fly the flag under various conditions. The rules differ slightly depending on state, but the basic rule is: The flag should be given the highest honor.
Outdoor Display Rules for Homes and Buildings
American flags made in the USA are ideal for outdoor display as nylon and polyester materials are both durable and weather-resistant. Baldwin flags have a variety of high-quality nylon American flags in all the sizes – from small 12×18 inch flags to commercial-sized flags and more – that are ideal for any home or business display.
Some key rules for displays outside the building are:
- If you are flying more than one flag on different poles, all poles must be the same height and the American flag is the first flag up and the last flag down.
- The flag is not to be flown upside down unless in a real emergency.
- On vehicles the flag should be securely attached to the right front fender
Indoor Flag Display Guidelines
In an interior (office, school, auditorium, or place of worship), the flag should be displayed to the right of the speaker (or the staging area) from the audience. With other flags displayed inside, the American flag should always be in the center or to its right.
Raising Lowering and Lighting the Flag
Sunrise to Sunset Rules and Nighttime Display
Under normal flag etiquette, the American flag is not to be displayed at night time, or during the day when the sun is out. When used after dark the flag should be properly illuminated by a dedicated spotlight or flag pole light aimed at the flag to ensure the flag is clearly visible in the dark.
If the flag is raised on days of national mourning, it is lowered to half staff, after first being raised to full staff. The flags should be displayed at full staff on July 4th 2026 to represent the joy and pride of the nation as we celebrate America's 250th birthday.
Flag Care Folding and Retirement
How to Fold the American Flag
The 13 folds in the ceremonial presentation and folding of the American flag each represent a symbolic meaning related to American values and military tradition. The final shape is tight, triangular, which symbolizes the hats worn by patriots in the American Revolution. In military funerals, retirement ceremonies and formal patriotic functions, this folding method is used.
How to Retire a Worn or Tattered Flag
If a flag is so worn or faded that it can no longer be displayed in a dignified manner, it should be retired with dignity. The US Flag Code suggests that the flag be burned in an appropriate, ceremonial way. Flag retirement ceremonies are common and open to the public, and are held by local American Legion posts, Veterans of Foreign Wars posts, Boy Scout troops and other veteran groups. Serving since 1908, Baldwin Flags is a veteran-owned flag company that can help guide customers in the correct process to flag retirement.
Where to Buy Quality American Flags for Proper Display
As well as knowing how to display a quality flag, it's important to choose the right one. Since 1908, Baldwin Flags of St. Louis, Missouri has been serving you and has one of the most complete collections of top quality American flags, custom flags & banners, military flags, state flags & flagpoles in the Midwest.
With America looking toward a new day of celebration for its own bicentennial in 2026, it's time to invest in a good quality flag that truly represents the country it is from. Shop the entire line for the right flag for your home, business or event.
Patriotic celebration 2026 is almost here, and you're ready to soar to great heights with your flag!? Contact Baldwin Flags today and let our experts help you choose the right flag, pole, and accessories for a display worthy of Old Glory.
FAQs About American Flag Etiquette
Can I fly the American flag every day?
Yes, the flag can be flown all year long, provided that it is well maintained and flown in accordance with the US Flag Code.
What happens if it rains while my flag is flying?
Rain and bad weather should be considered as a factor, and the flag should be removed, except when it is of all-weather fabric (e.g., nylon or polyester – made for outdoor use).
How do I know when to fly the flag at half staff?
Half-staff observances are proclaimed by the President or the governor of the State. These are typical events, such as Memorial Day morning, Patriot Day and national days of mourning.
Does the size of the flag matter for proper display?
Yes, flag size should increase with flag pole height. Baldwin Flags offers sizing recommendations to help you select the correct combination to fit your particular situation.
The Complete Guide to Flag Display EtiquetteAmerica Flag History