Flag Guidelines • Updated 2026

Wondering why are flags at half-staff today? This guide explains the history, meaning, and official half-staff rules — plus the complete 2026 flag-lowering schedule so you never miss an important observance.

Why Are Flags at Half-Staff?

The American flag is lowered to half-staff as a sign of mourning, respect, and remembrance. This tradition honors those who have made great sacrifices — such as fallen soldiers, first responders, and national leaders — or recognizes tragic national events.

Many people notice the flag at half-staff but don’t know who orders it. In the U.S., the authority to lower the flag rests with:

• The President of the United States — issues nationwide proclamations for national mourning.
• State Governors — declare half-staff observances for state officials, police officers, or first responders.
• Congressional Orders — occasionally issue special flag directives for historical or national events.

Are Flags at Half-Staff on Inauguration Day?

No. Inauguration Day, held every four years on January 20, marks the beginning of a new presidential term. The flag is traditionally flown at full staff on this day, symbolizing national unity and the peaceful transition of power. The flag would only be lowered if a separate half-staff order (such as a national mourning period) happened to overlap with the date.

2026 Half-Staff Flag Schedule

Every year, certain national observances require the American flag to be lowered. Below is the official 2026 half-staff schedule, with dates confirmed by presidential proclamation and the U.S. Flag Code:

📌 For real-time updates and breaking flag orders, check our 2026 Flag Half-Staff Alert.

When & Why Are Flags at Half-Staff?

1. National Fallen Firefighters Memorial (May 3, 2026)

Held the first weekend of May in Emmitsburg, Maryland, this observance honors firefighters who died in the line of duty. By federal law (Public Law 107-51), the flag flies at half-staff at all federal buildings on this day. Note: this observance moved from October to early May beginning in 2023.

2. Peace Officers Memorial Day (May 15)

Observed during Police Week to honor federal, state, and local peace officers who made sacrifices in the line of duty. The flag is lowered to half-staff for the entire day, sunrise to sunset.

3. Memorial Day (Monday, May 25, 2026)

On the last Monday of May, lower the flag to half-staff until noon, then raise it to full staff for the rest of the day. This honors all fallen U.S. service members. Explore our Memorial Day flags to honor deceased veterans and service members.

4. Patriot Day — September 11 (25th Anniversary in 2026)

Patriot Day remembers the victims and heroes of the September 11, 2001 attacks. The flag flies at half-staff from sunrise to sunset. 2026 marks the solemn 25th anniversary. See our 9/11 Never Forget flags.

5. National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day (December 7)

Commemorates the 2,403 Americans killed in the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, which brought the U.S. into World War II. Flags are lowered from sunrise to sunset.

6. Other Reasons

Flags are also lowered upon the death of the President, Vice President, Chief Justice, or Speaker of the House — or whenever the President or a state governor issues an order for a national tragedy or the passing of a significant figure.

Can Flags Fly at Half-Staff All Year Round?

Yes. There is no rule in the U.S. Flag Code preventing the flag from flying at half-staff year-round to honor fallen service members.

However, the nation also has full-staff celebration days — such as Martin Luther King Jr. Day (third Monday in January), Independence Day (July 4), and Labor Day (first Monday in September) — which are meant for celebration rather than mourning.

How to Fly the Flag at Half-Staff Properly

• Raise it briskly to full staff first, then lower it slowly to half-staff.
• Keep it at half-staff until sunset, unless otherwise directed.
• On Memorial Day, raise it to full staff at noon after the morning period of mourning.
• When taking it down, raise the flag fully to the top first, then lower it.

If another 3×5 flag flies with the American flag, display it below Old Glory. Per the U.S. Flag Code, no other flag should be placed above the American flag. For full guidance, read our American Flag Etiquette Guide.

When Should Flags Be Flown at Full Staff?

Many patriotic holidays call for the flag to be flown at full staff to represent national pride and celebration:

• Independence Day — Saturday, July 4, 2026 (America’s 250th birthday)
• Veterans Day — Wednesday, November 11, 2026
• Flag Day — Sunday, June 14, 2026

Explore Flagwix’s Patriotic Collection

Complement your display with meaningful designs from Flagwix:

• Christian Flags celebrating faith and freedom
• Veteran Tribute Flags honoring those who served
• Memorial Day Flags commemorating the fallen
• 250th Anniversary Flags for America’s milestone year

Frequently Asked Questions

More Half-Staff Resources

• 📅 2026 Half-Staff Alert & Daily Flag Notifications
• 🇺🇸 American Flag Etiquette for the 250th Anniversary
• ✝️ How to Display the Christian Flag and American Flag