Every year on June 14th, Americans break out the red, white, and blue to honor a symbol that represents freedom, unity, and the spirit of a nation: the American flag. But how did Flag Day come to be?

The history of Flag Day dates back to 1777, when the Continental Congress adopted the Stars and Stripes as the official flag of the United States. It wasn’t until 1916, though, that President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed June 14th as a national day of observance. Today, Flag Day remains a meaningful patriotic holiday in the U.S.—especially for towns that take the opportunity to go all-out in their celebrations.

Blackburn Manufacturing is no stranger to the holiday, but this year, we were curious about how it is celebrated far and wide. Here’s a fun look at 7 cities that celebrate Flag Day. 

1. Neligh, Nebraska: The Heart of Our Flag Story

We’re kicking it off with our own hometown of Neligh, Nebraska—proudly named the state’s “Flag Capital” in 2015. For us at Blackburn, Flag Day is personal. It’s about honoring veterans and patriotism, country, and community—all with a little help from some high-quality flags made in the USA.

Every June 14th, volunteers (including our Blackburn team!) line the streets and highways with mini American flags for yards. Drive down Highway 275, and you’ll see a patriotic landscape that’s hard to beat.

Since 2015, we’ve also proudly awarded the Blackburn Flag Day Scholarship, encouraging local students to explore the meaning of the flag in their lives. It’s our way of investing in the next generation of leaders and fostering their appreciation for the American flag. 

2. Appleton, Wisconsin: America’s Longest Running Flag Day Parade

Next stop: Appleton, Wisconsin, home of the nation’s oldest continuously running Flag Day parade. This all-American celebration began in 1950 and still draws over 50,000 spectators every year.

The Grand Marshal? The United States Flag itself. From marching bands and local veterans to community groups and dazzling floats, Appleton’s celebration checks all the boxes for unforgettable community Flag Day events. Each year also shines a spotlight on a different branch of the U.S. military!

3. Quincy, Massachusetts: Parade, Patriotism, and Fireworks

Quincy, the City of Presidents, brings serious energy to Flag Day with a late afternoon parade, a flag-raising ceremony, and—of course—fireworks to finish the night.

At Pageant Field, a massive 50’ x 80’ American flag is hoisted while “You’re a Grand Old Flag” plays across the park. It’s the kind of moment that reminds you how simply yet powerful raising the American flag can be. 

4. Three Oaks, Michigan: A Multi-Day Festival for Old Glory

Since 1953, this small Michigan town has thrown a weekend-long Flag Day festival that rivals most state fairs. We’re talking live music, a carnival, beer tents, a softball tournament, and one big, bold parade with over 100 units—and that’s just the start. 

Want unique Flag Day ideas? Three Oaks has them in spades. They prove that even the smallest towns can throw a mighty patriotic party for the June 14th holiday. 

5. Fairfield, Washington: A Century of Tradition

Out in eastern Washington, the small farming town of Fairfield holds a special title: in 2010, it became the first community to celebrate Flag Day for 100 straight years.

This community may be small, but they’ve kept Flag Day traditions alive for generations with parades, community events, and patriotic displays. It's living proof that tradition can fly high, year after year.

6. Baltimore, Maryland: Living History at Fort McHenry

If you're into Flag Day history facts, head to Fort McHenry in Baltimore, where the flag inspired Francis Scott Key to write “The Star-Spangled Banner.”

Each year, Fort McHenry celebrates with historical reenactments, weapons and music demonstrations, flag-folding ceremonies, and educational events hosted by park rangers and the Fort McHenry Guard. You’ll learn about U.S. flag etiquette, military history, and the origins of the flag itself—all in the place where it first became a national symbol.

7. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: Betsy Ross and Flag Fest

Last but definitely not least, we land in Philadelphia: home of Betsy Ross and a full Flag Fest at her historic home.

This week-long celebration features interactive flag-making workshops, historical characters, and daily flag-raising ceremonies with “Betsy” herself. It’s a fun, family-friendly way to introduce kids and adults alike to the history of Flag Day—and to get hands-on with America’s most famous piece of fabric.

Celebrate Flag Day with USA Yard Flags

From Neligh to Philly, these towns and cities remind us that there isn’t one place to go to or one way how to celebrate Flag Day. Whether you’re hosting a flag planting ceremony, attending a parade, or just decking out your yard with patriotic decorative lawn flags, there are countless approaches to having fun on this meaningful day.

Looking for supplies to deck out your own Flag Day celebrations? Blackburn offers custom flags for patriotic holidays. Our durable, high-gloss poly American flags are the best flags for windy weather, rain, or sunshine. We also offer the ability to design your own custom patriotic yard signs, if that is more your style. 

Whether you need to buy flags in bulk or just want to show a little neighborhood pride, we’ve got you covered. This Flag Day, let’s keep the tradition alive and flying!

FAQs

What are some popular American flag events I can attend for Flag Day?

Many towns and cities across the U.S. host events on or around June 14th, including parades, flag-raising ceremonies, and historical reenactments. Cities like Appleton, Wisconsin, and Fort McHenry in Baltimore are especially known for their patriotic festivities.

Where can I get flags and American flag yard signs for my home or business?

You can find poly American flags and high-quality American flag yard signs through specialty retailers like Blackburn Manufacturing. 

How can I use small flags for landscaping during patriotic holidays?

Landscaping flags are an easy, eye-catching way to add patriotic flair to gardens, walkways, and yards. Place them evenly along driveways, flower beds, or fences to create a bold red, white, and blue display.

What types of patriotic flags for events work best outdoors?

When planning outdoor patriotic celebrations, choose American flags made from weather-resistant materials like poly or vinyl. These flags hold up well in wind and rain, making them ideal for parades, festivals, or ceremonies. Pair them with durable flag stakes, if needed.