The 19th Annual Flag Festival will soon be in full swing at the Betsy Ross House, and what locals can expect out of this annual weeklong activation is a series of interactive events, free family programming and a finale schedule of events to wrap it all up.
This annual celebration pays tribute to the tradition of Flag Day commemorations that began at the Betsy Ross House more than 100 years ago, resuming with the first modern Flag Festival in 2008.
The House hosted its first Flag Day event on June 14, 1891 and has long been the site of the city’s official observance.
It all kicks off this Saturday, June 6, with a day of celebration honoring the legacy of the American flag and the woman credited with creating it. The festivities begin at 10 a.m. with a ceremonial flag raising, followed by special programming as part of the citywide 52 Weeks of Firsts initiative (a yearlong celebration spotlighting Philadelphia-born innovations, achievements, and historic milestones.)
Held every Saturday throughout this year, Firstivals feature opening ceremonies, storytelling, family-friendly activities, live entertainment, giveaways, interactive exhibits, and opportunities to engage with the #1 Sculpture commemorating each featured “first.”
From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., the June 6 Firstival will focus on the First American Flag, recognizing the 1777 creation. Visitors can explore the birthplace of the first American flag, learn about the life and legacy of Betsy Ross, and enjoy hands-on activities that bring Revolutionary-era history to life under the theme of “Stars, stripes, and stitching history.”
Flag Fest 2026 continues throughout the week with daily activities, with each day beginning with a flag-raising ceremony at 10 a.m.
On Sunday, June 7, guests can also experience a wool processing demonstration from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., providing insight into the traditional textile techniques. From June 8 to 12, visitors can additionally meet skilled flag makers during daily demonstrations from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and learn about the artistry and craftsmanship involved in creating American flags. Plus, each afternoon from 3 to 4 p.m., the popular Curator’s Corner program offers a deeper look into the museum’s collections and the stories behind its artifacts.
Friday, June 12, will feature a special highlight as the House will unveil a new donation from Betsy Ross’s descendants at 11 a.m. The day’s Curator’s Corner program will provide an exclusive opportunity to view objects from storage connected to Ross and her legacy as well, offering visitors a glimpse into pieces not typically on public display.
The festival continues on Saturday, June 13, with colonial chocolate-making demonstrations presented by American Heritage Chocolate from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The day will then conclude with a performance by the Philadelphia Heritage Chorale at 3 p.m.
It all culminates on Sunday, June 14, with a full schedule of Flag Day celebrations. Following the morning flag raising, the Philadelphia Flag Day Association will hold its annual ceremony at 10:15 a.m. Visitors can participate in a flag-making craft throughout the event, plus, there will be a special unveiling of the newly donated artifact from 11 to 11:30 a.m. The festivities will then conclude with Betsy’s Flag History Program from 1 to 3 p.m.
For more information and a full schedule, visit historicphiladelphia.org
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