You might be wondering if you need to plan around school closures when Flag Day arrives on June 14. Schools are typically open on Flag Day because it is not a federal holiday, though students are usually on summer break anyway since Flag Day falls in mid-June. The only exception is Pennsylvania, which recognizes Flag Day as a state holiday, potentially affecting school schedules there.
Flag Day celebrates when the Continental Congress adopted the stars and stripes design in 1777, replacing the Grand Union Flag that had represented the 13 colonies. Bernard Cigrand, often called the father of Flag Day, worked for years to establish this observance. A Buffalo teacher named Sarah Hinson started the tradition of Flag Day exercises in schools back in 1891, teaching students to salute the flag and recite the Pledge of Allegiance.
Whether your school is in session or closed for summer, understanding Flag Day schedules helps you plan any special activities or observances. This guide covers everything you need to know about school operations on Flag Day, typical hours if schools are open, and how to make the most of this patriotic occasion.
Is School Open On Flag Day?
Yes, schools are open on Flag Day in most of the United States. Your children will attend classes as usual on this day.
Flag Day falls on June 14 each year, commemorating when the Continental Congress adopted the Stars and Stripes in 1777. While this date holds historical significance for our nation, it is not a federal holiday. This means government offices, schools, and businesses operate on their normal schedules.
You should plan for a regular school day when June 14 arrives. Your child’s teacher will likely incorporate Flag Day lessons or activities into the curriculum, but classes will run as scheduled. Students typically participate in flag ceremonies, learn about the flag’s history, or complete assignments related to National Flag Day.
However, Pennsylvania is the exception to this rule. If you live in Pennsylvania, schools close on Flag Day as it’s recognized as a state holiday. Pennsylvania residents get the day off from work and school to observe this patriotic occasion.
For families in the other 49 states, you’ll need to arrange your schedule around normal school hours. Your morning routine remains the same, and buses run on their regular routes. Many schools display the American flag prominently and hold brief ceremonies, but these typically don’t disrupt the school day.
If you’re planning summer vacation or scheduling appointments, remember that June 14 is a standard school day in your state unless you live in Pennsylvania.
Flag Day Hours And Operating Schedule
Flag Day falls on June 14 each year. This date marks when the Continental Congress adopted the American flag design in 1777.
Most schools follow their regular summer break schedule during Flag Day. You won’t find schools open because June 14 typically occurs after the school year ends. Summer vacation usually starts in late May or early June for most districts.
Key Schedule Details:
- Flag Day is not a federal holiday
- Government offices remain open
- Banks operate on normal hours
- Post offices deliver mail as usual
- Most businesses keep regular schedules
President Woodrow Wilson established the official Flag Day observance through a proclamation in 1916. However, Congress never designated it as a federal holiday. This means you can expect normal operations almost everywhere.
If you need to display the flag for Flag Day observance, you should fly it from sunrise to sunset. The flag should be properly illuminated if you want to keep it up 24 hours a day.
Schools that operate year-round programs or summer sessions might stay open on June 14. Each district decides its own calendar. You should check with your local school district to confirm their specific schedule.
Flag Day history shows it was meant as a day of recognition rather than a day off from work or school. You can still honor the flag while maintaining your normal daily routine. Many people choose to display flags at their homes or participate in local Flag Day events after work hours.
Tips For Visiting School On Flag Day
Schools remain open on Flag Day, which falls on June 14 each year. This makes it a perfect opportunity to visit your child’s classroom during this patriotic observance.
Plan Your Visit Around Flag Ceremonies
Many schools hold special Flag Day ceremonies and parades in the morning. Contact your school office a few days ahead to learn the exact schedule. These events often include the Pledge of Allegiance and educational activities about American history.
What To Expect During Your Visit
- Students may be learning about the Declaration of Independence and its connection to our national symbols
- Classrooms often display American flags and patriotic decorations
- Teachers typically plan special lessons about flag history and proper flag etiquette
- Some schools coordinate with the National Flag Day Foundation for educational materials
Dress Code and Participation
Wearing red, white, and blue shows your patriotic spirit. Your participation matters to students, especially during group recitations of the Pledge of Allegiance.
Check with teachers about whether you can join classroom activities. Some schools welcome parent volunteers to help with flag-themed crafts or reading activities.
Coordinate With School Staff
Always sign in at the main office when you arrive. Schools maintain security protocols even during special celebrations. Unlike Independence Day when schools close for summer break, Flag Day happens during the regular school year, so normal visitor procedures apply.
Bring your camera to capture memories, but ask permission before photographing other students. Your visit teaches children that community members value patriotic traditions and education.
