National Flag Day in Denver

National Flag Day takes place every June 14, with celebrations around the United States that include ceremonies, parades, picnics and essay contests. These celebrations are typically sponsored by schools, veterans' groups and the National Flag Day Foundation, whose focus is to preserve the history, pride and tradition of the flag.

Although National Flag Day did not become an official national holiday until August 3, 1949, it has been celebrated for much longer. The first celebration took place in 1877, as it marked 100 years since the Flag Resolution of 1777. However, many people credit Wisconsin school teacher BJ Cigrand as spearheading the first annual Flag Day celebration in 1885. Cigrand had his students observe the flag on June 14, and today he is referred to as the "Father of Flag Day."

There are many ways people celebrate National Flag Day. In the Denver area, each year Flag Day is celebrated at Genesee Mountain. At 11:30am on June 14, 2013, the 102nd annual celebration will take place, featuring a Flag Day ceremony and a picnic to follow.

In addition to celebrations, many places and businesses offer freebies on Flag Day. For example, there is a free USFlag app available for iPhone users. Free downloads of The National Anthem are available on Amazon, and free Flag Day eCards are available through the Freebie Depot.