In Huntington Beach, the Fourth of July is practically our Super Bowl. From Main Street parades and beach bonfires to backyard BBQs and fireworks over the ocean, patriotism is woven into the fabric of summer here in Surf City USA. And with American flags proudly flying everywhere this time of year, July is the perfect reminder that the American flag is more than just festive décor; it’s a symbol with deep meaning and tradition behind it.
The Basics Everyone Should Know
Let’s start with one of the most common mistakes: the flag should never be hung upside down unless it’s being used as an official signal of distress. When hanging it vertically, the blue field of stars should always appear in the upper left corner from the viewer’s perspective.
The American flag is traditionally displayed from sunrise to sunset, but if you want to keep it flying at night, the US Flag Code dictates that it be properly illuminated. Luckily, Huntington Beach weather is typically ideal for displaying the flag, but during unusually rough winds, it’s best to bring it indoors.
Yes, There Really Is Flag Etiquette
The American flag should never touch the ground, be used as a tablecloth, or turned into disposable party decorations. Patriotic-inspired designs are perfectly fine, but the actual flag itself deserves respectful treatment.
Many people are surprised to learn that there’s a right way — and a wrong way — to incorporate the American flag into their Independence Day decor. Attaching small American flags securely to bikes, wagons, or strollers for the parade is generally considered to be respectful and patriotic. However, wrapping an actual flag around handlebars, seats, or wheels where it could drag, tear, or become damaged is considered improper.
If your flag becomes faded, torn, or worn out, there is a proper way to retire it. Any of HB’s eight fire stations will accept flags. Additionally, many veteran organizations have flag retirement services and ceremonies throughout the year. Here are some local drop-off locations:
- Huntington Beach Central Library: A collection bin is located near the Circulation Desk/book donation area.
- The Home Depot (19101 Magnolia St.): There’s a drop-off container just inside the entrance, near the customer service desk.
- Local Organizations: Contact or visit American Legion Post 133 (www.hbpost133.org), American Legion Post 266 (5500 Bolsa Ave Ste 105), or the HB Elks Lodge 1959 (7711 Talbert Ave.)
Flying Proudly Above the Rest
When multiple flags are displayed together, the American flag should always hold the position of honor, meaning it should be placed in the most prominent and respected location. On a flagpole, it should fly above state, city, or organizational flags. In parades or public events, it traditionally leads the procession or is displayed to the speaker’s right.
One of the things that makes HB so special is the way in which our community comes together around tradition, especially on the Fourth of July. The American flag serves as a reminder of freedom, sacrifice, resilience, and unity…values that matter deeply, despite your background or beliefs.
So, whether you’re hanging a flag outside your home, decorating your beach cruiser, or setting up for a backyard BBQ this summer, taking a few extra moments to display it properly is a small gesture that carries a lot of meaning.
Any content, resident submissions, guest columns, advertisements, and advertorials are not necessarily endorsed by or represent the views of Best Version Media LLC (BVM) or any municipality, homeowners associations, businesses, or organizations that this publication serves. BVM is not responsible for the reliability, suitability, or timeliness of any content submitted, inclusive of materials generated or composed through artificial intelligence (AI). All content submitted is done so at the sole discretion of the submitting party.
