Ways to display the American flag for Fourth of July

Whether you’re looking for Fourth of July decorations or are a new way to show off Old Glory on the regular, there are many ways to display the American flag inside and outside of your home.

From flagpoles to frames, here are five proper ways to display the American flag.

1. Fly it from an outdoor flagpole

The most common way to display the Star-Spangled Banner is from either a flagpole in the ground outside of your home or a staff projecting from a window, balcony, or a building. To do so respectfully when hanging, be sure to have the union (the blue field with stars) at the peak of the staff or pole. If you’re flying other flags with it, the American flag should always be on the top.

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2. Hang it up on a wall

According to the National Flag Foundation, when hanging the flag against a wall (for instance, in an office), it should lie flat with its union should be at the top to the flag’s own right (this is the left when you’re looking at the flag). A sticky putty can help secure the flag to the wall without poking holes it it. For flags with existing hanging holes, try tacks.

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3. Use patriotic bunting

While not an actual flag, bunting is another patriotic way to adorn your home with the stars and stripes. Bunting flags look best when hung from a porch railing, along the roofline, or under your home’s windows.

If you’re creating your own by gathering fabric swaths together, arrange the bunting with the blue on top, the white in the middle, and the red below.

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4. Frame it

Whether it’s a historical item or a family heirloom from military service, float mounting is the traditional way to show off an unfurled flag in a frame. This technique raises the flag above the mat to add depth and drama, as well as showcases the edges.

For folded flags, the one and only correct way to fold it results in a triangle shape that shows only the union. To properly display the folded flag, it must be placed in a case, box, or bag of that same shape.

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5. Line your driveway with small outdoor flags

For a festive way to build excitement for a Fourth of July outdoor barbecue or get-together, line your pathway with small outdoor flags to greet guests on their way in.

Pro tip: Make sure the flags don’t touch the ground. American flags, no matter how small, should not make contact with the ground.

If you have any questions on specific places to put your flag, refer to the Flag Code, a great guide on proper respect for Old Glory.

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