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

The United States celebrates Flag Day on June 14, 2026, an observance that honors the adoption of the American flag. Although a national holiday, it is not a federal one, meaning federal institutions like banks and mail services typically operate as usual, though this is not applicable in 2026 as June 14 falls on a Sunday. The origin of the first American flag is often attributed to Betsy Ross, who may have sewn it in 1776 at the request of figures like George Washington, Robert Morris, and Colonel George Ross. However, historical documentation of Ross sewing the first flag during her lifetime is absent, though she was known to sew flags and moved within similar social circles as Washington and Ross.

Most historians credit Francis Hopkinson, a congressman from New Jersey and signatory of the Declaration of Independence, with the original design of the American flag. The flag's design has undergone minor modifications over time, but its core symbolism has endured. The 13 alternating red and white stripes represent the original thirteen colonies, while the 50 white stars on a blue field symbolize the current fifty states. This iconic design inspired Francis Scott Key to pen "The Star-Spangled Banner" after witnessing the flag flying over Fort McHenry during the British bombardment in 1814. "The Star-Spangled Banner" was officially adopted as the U.S. National Anthem in 1931.