Patriotic Outdoor Decor: Incorporate the American Flag in Your Fourth of July Decorations
Celebrating America’s independence with Fourth of July decorations means adding a healthy dose of red, white, and blue to your decorations, including incorporating the American flag properly. But you’ll want to make sure you’re using the flag properly. Here are the dos and don’ts you need to know to achieve patriotic outdoor decor that’s both fun and respectful.
Properly Hanging the U.S. Flag With Your Fourth of July Decorations
When hanging your flag, there are a few simple rules to keep in mind:
- Never hang the U.S. flag below other flags
- Always illuminate the flag when flying it at night
- Keep your flag in good repair
- Hang the flag vertically, with the stars at the top and attached next to the pole
You can also hang the flag from a roof or balcony. Just make sure to orient the flag so the blue field is to the left and on the top according to the observer.
Perhaps most importantly, avoid letting the flag touch the ground. This includes anything that could be underneath it, such as chairs and tables, plants, and boxes. You don’t want to use a real flag as a tablecloth, napkin, clothing, curtains, or anything other than a flag.
According to the flag code, the flag should also not be used to carry, hold, or deliver something else.
Using Miniature Flags For Your Fourth of July Decorations
You have more leeway with miniature flags. Keep in mind that you still cannot let them touch the ground, and they must be 1.9 times as long as they are wide. Still, you can display them in a variety of ways, including:
- Along your driveway and walkways
- In flower beds
- In centerpieces
- On pennant strings
- Attached to your car, boat, or motorcycle
When attaching them to vehicles, make sure to firmly affix your miniature flags to avoid them coming off at speed. Also, should they get damaged or torn, replace them immediately.
Bunting
The flag code states that flags shouldn’t be “festooned, drawn back, nor up, in folds, but always allowed to fall free.” In cases where you need a flag-like decoration that can be folded or drawn, your best option is bunting. Keep in mind that the flag code does state that bunting should have red on the bottom, blue at the top, and white in the middle.
Flag-Like Decorations
You can buy paper plates, napkins, cups, blankets, pillows, and plenty of other adornments and goods with the flag printed on them. Using such items isn’t an issue since they aren’t attempting to be replicas of the flag.
Find Quality, American-Made Flags at Elmer’s Flag
This Fourth of July, you want to fly a high-quality example of Old Glory. Whether you’re replacing a tattered flag or want a U.S. flag in a different size, you can find exactly what you need from Elmer’s Flag. Contact us for more flag decor ideas today.