Flag Displays

While types and colors of flags vary by country and organization, there are some universal rules for properly displaying flags. It is customary to only display the flag from sunrise to sundown. When flying a flag at half-mast, it should first be taken all the way to the top, and then slowly lowered to half-mast. This is usually done to represent a time of mourning, a death, war, or other similar issue. Flags in the United States were at half-mast after the terrorist attacks of 09/11.

The flag of the country should be dominate where a display has more than one flag. For example, a display with a state flag and the United States flag should have the United States flag flown higher than the state flag. The country flag should always be hoisted first and lowered last out of respect. When flags are at half-mast, the country flag should be flown at half, with the state flag slightly lower.

If flags from different nations are flown together in the same display, they should all be flown at the same height. This represents the countries peaceful agreement that they are not above or below any other country. All the flags at the United Nations are at the same height.

The proper way to fold a flag is to fold it in half width-wise twice. Fold one side up into a triangle. Repeat this triangle motion until only a square is left. Tuck the point of the triangle into the square. This takes some practice, so if you will be doing flag folding, try practicing on a piece of material with the same dimensions.

Flag displays all over the world represent the ideals and background of that particular country, state, and organization. Flag displays are done for many different reasons. Following a few basic rules no matter what flags you display helps send a unified message that all flags are to be treated with respect.