Flag Day 2026 explained: The origin and history of America’s most recognizable symbol

When Olympic athletes win, they are often covered in their home country’s flag. Symbols such as flags help unite the masses, reminding individuals of a bigger purpose. The flag of the United States of America is no exception to this rule. Today (Sunday, June 14, 2026), America celebrates the stars and stripes on Flag Day. Here’s everything you need to know about this observance, including how President Trump is celebrating. Is this a federal holiday? No. While Flag Day is a national holiday, it is not a federal one. Flag Day always falls on June 14, so depending on the year, banks can stay open and mail can get delivered. Since it is on a Sunday in 2026, those rules don’t apply. What about Betsy Ross? Many Americans were taught in school that Betsy Ross sewed the first American flag in 1776 when asked to do so by George Washington, Robert Morris, and Colonel George Ross. The truth is a bit more complicated. While it is very possible that Ross did sew the first American flag, it is interesting to note that, during her lifetime, this was not documented. It is known that she did sew flags and moved in the same social circles as Washington and Ross. What works of art and patriotism have the American flag inspired? Regardless of Betsy Ross’s involvement, most historians agree that the original design came from Francis Hopkinson. He served as a congressman from New Jersey and signed the Declaration of Independence. While the design has had small changes over the years, the ethos of it has remained the same. The 13 red and white stripes represent the original colonies. The 50 white stars on a dark blue background represent the states that make up our country. Hopkinson’s flag would inspire Francis Scott Key to write “The Star-Spangled Banner.” Key saw the emblem wave after surviving a full day of the British bombing of Fort McHenry in 1814. This eventually became our National Anthem in 1931. A brief history of Flag Day Flag Day celebrates the exact day when the Secon