A Guide to Displaying the United States Flag at Your Home

The United States flag is a powerful symbol of national pride, unity, and freedom. Displaying the flag at your home is a meaningful way to show your patriotism and respect for the country. However, it’s important to follow proper etiquette to ensure the flag is displayed respectfully. This guide covers the key aspects of displaying the United States flag at your home.

1. Flag Display Basics

When to Display the Flag

• The flag can be displayed year-round, weather permitting, and is most commonly flown on national holidays such as Independence Day, Memorial Day, and Veterans Day.
• It can also be displayed during significant personal events, such as a loved one’s homecoming or a national moment of solidarity.

Times for Display

• The flag should be displayed from sunrise to sunset. If you wish to fly it at night, it must be properly illuminated.

2. Proper Placement

Flagpole or Outdoor Mount

• If using a flagpole, the flag should be raised briskly and lowered ceremoniously.
• If mounting the flag on the front of your home, ensure the union (the blue field with stars) is positioned at the peak of the staff or in the uppermost position when hung flat.

Flat Display

• When displayed flat against a wall, the union should be at the top and to the flag’s right (the observer’s left). The same applies when displayed in a window.

3. Indoor Flag Display

• The flag can be displayed indoors as a wall hanging or part of a home office or patriotic display.
• Ensure the flag is not draped or used as a covering for furniture, ceilings, or other objects.

4. Flag Size

• Choose a flag size proportional to its mounting area. For residential flagpoles, a 3x5-foot flag is standard.
• For wall displays, choose a size that fits neatly in the available space without touching the floor or surrounding objects.

5. Weather Considerations

• The flag should not be displayed during inclement weather unless it is made of an all-weather material.
• Always check the weather before flying the flag to avoid damage.

6. Half-Staff Protocol

The flag is flown at half-staff to honor significant events or in remembrance of a national tragedy. When lowering the flag to half-staff:

• Raise the flag briskly to the top of the pole, then slowly lower it to the half-staff position.
• Before taking it down for the day, raise it to the peak again before lowering it completely.

7. Respectful Handling

• The flag should never touch the ground or any surface below it.
• When the flag becomes worn or faded, it should be retired and replaced. Proper retirement often involves ceremonial burning, commonly conducted by organizations like the American Legion.

8. Flags for Special Occasions

• Use small flags to line pathways, gardens, or fences for special patriotic occasions. Ensure they are positioned upright and securely anchored.
• Display bunting instead of a flag for decorative purposes. Always arrange bunting with the blue stripe at the top, followed by white, then red.

9. Purchasing a Flag

• Choose high-quality flags made of durable materials like nylon or polyester for outdoor use.

10. Flag Etiquette and the U.S. Flag Code

The U.S. Flag Code outlines the proper treatment and display of the flag:

• Never use the flag as clothing, bedding, or drapery.
• Avoid attaching or placing items like pins, badges, or letters on the flag.
• The flag should never be used for advertising or promotional purposes.

Display Your Flag With Pride

Displaying the United States flag at your home is a powerful way to express pride and honor for the country. By following proper flag etiquette and taking care to display it respectfully, you can ensure the flag serves as a fitting tribute to the ideals it represents. Whether you’re celebrating a national holiday or simply expressing your patriotism, the flag is a symbol of unity and freedom for all Americans.