On June 14, 1777, the Continental Congress approved the design of a national flag.
The idea of an annual day celebrating the flag is believed to have originated in 1885 when a grade school teacher, Bernard J. Cigrand, arranged for his students to celebrate "Flag Birthday." However, it wasn't until 1949 that Flag Day was officially established by an Act of Congress.
The design of the United States flag has officially changed 26 times over the years. The current design of 13 stripes and 50 stars has been our flag since Hawaii entered the Union in 1959. The design was created by Robert Heft in 1958 as a high school student. He initially received a B- on his project, but he made a deal with his teacher to change the grade to an A if Congress selected his design. He got his A.
We have five fun ways to help you celebrate Flag Day on June 14 or any day you want to show off the red, white, and blue!
1. Start with a giggle.
Q: Which country's flag has the highest rating?
A: The United States flag because it has 50 stars!
2. Learn a few fun facts.
The colors of the American flag are known as "White," "Old Glory Red," and "Old Glory Blue." There is no way to convert them perfectly to display on an electronic screen or in print.
"Old Glory" refers to a specific flag owned by Captain William Driver, although it is commonly used to refer to the United States flag in general. Other nicknames are "The Stars and Stripes" and "The Star-Spangled Banner."
There are 6 United States flags currently on the moon. The fabric of the flags has a wire mesh sewn into it, so it looks like it is "waving" even though there is no air on the moon.
When the flag is folded correctly, it is shaped like a triangle with only the stars showing. It takes 13 folds — the same number as the original colonies.
3. Create your own flag pin.
Lapel pins are an accessory that can be worn for just about any occasion — or just for fun!
Many of our elected officials wear a flag pin at public events to show their patriotism and respect for the values our flag represents. Instead of buying a flag pin, it's more fun to make one! All you need are safety pins and small beads. Get step-by-step instructions.
4. Make a berry cool cake.
Our cool refreshing "cake" is the perfect treat for Independence Day... or Memorial Day, Flag Day, or Veterans Day! With a sweet graham cracker crust, whipped cream, and fresh berries, it's just right for any day you want to show off your patriotic spirit!
5. Become a vexillophile.
The study of flags is called vexillology, which comes from the Latin word "vexillum," referring to a flag or banner. A flag enthusiast is called a vexillophile.
With 50 state flags in America and nearly 200 national flags worldwide, there's virtually no end to the fun you can have with flags, as Sheldon Cooper often demonstrated on The Big Bang Theory*.
*Before watching with your children, please note that The Big Bang Theory is suggested for audiences ages 14+ according to Common Sense Media.
