Labor Day seems like a great opportunity for a weekend away or a poolside barbeque. This day of rest was created just for that! The first Monday in September is Labor Day, a United States holiday to celebrate the contributions of our nation’s workers.
In honor of our country’s hard-working men and women, many businesses and residences will proudly fly Old Glory on their properties. If you own an American flag, be aware of flag etiquette, so you can show your country and fellow Americans honor!
Here’s some basic flag protocol to keep in mind:
- The American flag should be displayed from sunrise to sunset, but during patriotic holidays can be displayed for 24 hours as long as it’s properly illuminated, either by artificial lights or daylight.
- Your flag should be clean, mended, and neatly folded for storage.
- Unless your flag is designated an “all-weather flag,” only fly your flag in fair weather conditions.
- Never wear an American flag as clothing or wrap yourself in it, as it’s considered disrespectful.
- If displayed in a group of flags, the American flag should be at the center and highest point.
- Flying the star and stripes upside down is a signal for distress.
- Your flag should not touch the ground during lowering.
- If your flag is worn and no longer fit for flying, it should be burned in a dignified manner.
According to the Flag Code, your flag should be displayed on all days, but especially:
- January: New Year’s Day (January 1), Inauguration Day (January 20)
- February: Lincoln’s Birthday (February 12), Washington’s Birthday (third Monday in February)
- March-April: Easter Sunday
- May: Mother’s Day (second Sunday in May), Armed Forces Day (third Saturday in May), Memorial Day (last Monday in May)
- June: Flag Day (June 14)
- July: Independence Day (July 4)
- September: Labor Day (first Monday in September), Constitution Day (September 17)
- October: Columbus Day (second Monday in October), Navy Day (October 27)
- November: Veterans Day (November 11), Thanksgiving Day (fourth Thursday in November)
- December: Christmas Day (December 25)
- Holidays proclaimed by the President of the United States
- State holidays
Whether it’s a personal or corporate American flag, taking care of the time-honored tradition of flying Old Glory is an amazing way to honor your country! However you decide to spend your time this Labor Day, it’s my wish that you ring out the summer happily and have the opportunity to enjoy family, friends, and good food this holiday weekend. Happy Labor Day!
