Like most objects, flags do not last forever. Once they’re displayed for the world to admire, flags and banners can undergo direct sunlight, tough winds, and other harsh weather conditions that can affect their appearance over time. While the U.S government says that flags typically last ninety days, a banner's lifespan anywhere in the world depends on how often it flies and its location. Furthermore, once it's reached its usage, one should know how to properly dispose of their worn and tattered flag as a sign of respect for the colors.
Organization Donation
Throughout the years, many organizations pride themselves in collecting worn and tattered flags to dispose of customarily. Such organizations include the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and Girl Scouts that hold retirement ceremonies for damaged banners. Your local government office or police stations have accessible disposal boxes in which you can leave worn flags.
Flag Retirement Ceremony
Flags that are no longer serviceable are subject to dignified retirement ceremonies. Participants then face one another in two parallel rows and watch a small fire that burns the retired flag.
Legion commanders inspect flags given to them to ensure proper disposal. Once confirmed, the color guard presents the colors, and a chaplain says a prayer. The ceremony ends with flag detail, dipping the banner in kerosene and placing the flag over the fire while a bugler sounds “To the Colors.”
Flag Burning
If you don't have access to the groups mentioned above, you can always dispose of a flag on your own. First, fold the banner in its customary manner, then start a large fire to engulf a flag. Next, salute the colors and end with a moment of silence or the Pledge of Allegiance.
Remember to promptly extinguish the flame once the flag burns entirely and follow all local and state fire codes during this process.
Flag Burials
You can also dispose of a tattered banner by burial. Fold the colors in their ceremonial triangle and place them in the dignified box. This alternative comes in handy for those not comfortable with burning as flags made of synthetic material or nylon can release hazardous toxins upon burning.
Knowing how to properly dispose of a worn and tattered flag displays etiquette and respect for the symbolism behind its colors. While there are several ways you can dispose of a banner in a dignified manner, the chosen method will be the most convenient option for you.
Fat Tuesday and Ash Wednesday sit side by side on the calendar, but they feel very different.
One is full of color, music, and celebration. The other is quiet, simple, and reflective.
Together, they form a powerful transition from feasting to fasting, from Carnival to Lent.
Ramadan 2026 is expected to begin on the evening of February 17, 2026. The first day of fasting will likely fall on February 18. The month will end around March 19, 2026, depending on local moon sightings. These dates may be changed, depending on the country.
A red robin watches a Ramadan family prayer with warmth and wonder.
Ride into the rare Year of the Fire Horse with legends, dragon dances, lucky foods, and a fiery red robin salute to Lunar New Year. The Year of the Fire Horse is one of the most dramatic and culturally charged cycles in the Chinese zodiac. It appears only once every 60 years, and when it does, it ignites stories of passion, rebellion, creativity, and change.
From ancient legends to modern festivals filled with dragon dances and lanterns, the Fire Horse gallops through history
as a symbol of both risk and possibility.
Quick Fire Horse Snapshot:
Rare 60-year cycle • Fiery passion • Bold change • Artistic energy • A time to move, create, and transform.
Fire Horse-inspired lantern art at a Lunar New Year celebration.
As mid-February settles in, Presidents' Day arrives as a welcome pause in the winter season, a moment when
communities across the United States step outdoors for parades, visit historic sites, and reflect on the
leaders who shaped the nation. The holiday blends civic pride with the comfort of a long weekend, creating
a unique mix of celebration, education, and family time.
In 2026, the holiday on February 16th carries added significance as the nation enters its 250th anniversary year,
inspiring expanded programming, special exhibitions, and renewed interest in the country’s founding era.
From record spending to instant downloadable gifts for couples, pets, and families. For late shoppers, these ideas make a great solution for finding meaningful gifts.
Valentine’s Day 2026 is shaping up to be one of the biggest yet. Recent retail surveys show
that total Valentine’s spending is expected to reach record levels, with average budgets per
person climbing close to the $200 mark. Consumers aren’t just buying for romantic
partners anymore; they’re also celebrating kids, pets, friends, and themselves.
At the same time, how people express love is changing. Instead of defaulting to last‑minute
flowers and generic chocolates, many are looking for gifts that feel personal, meaningful,
and easy to deliver, especially when they’ve left things a little late. That’s where
downloadable, print‑at‑home, and digital gifts step into the spotlight.
