What's with the flags around Niwot?

American flags are a common decoration and symbol to see flying during national holidays that celebrate the United States of America. Most notably, the 4th of July, Memorial Day, Flag Day, and Veterans Day are holidays where the flag is seen frequently. However, American flags have decorated Niwot this year for longer than usual.

According to the Niwot Community Association, the "Flag Fairy" recruited some volunteers this year to raise American flags all around Niwot, including Cottonwood Square, along Niwot Road, and lining 2nd Avenue. Some of the "Flag Fairy's" assistants this year were Pat Murphy, Carrie Wise, Tim Wise, and Julie Breyer.

With Memorial Day on May 29 this year, Flag Day on June 14, and Independence Day on July 4th (hopefully you knew that last one), the NCA agreed that it made sense to leave the American flags up throughout that span of time. This way they did not have to dedicate the hours to continuously take them down and put them up again for each holiday, and instead could keep the festivities and holiday recognition alive for several weeks.

Memorial Day observes and commemorates those who have served and fallen during U.S. military service. Independence Day celebrates the ratification and signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776 separating the original thirteen colonies from Great Britain and claiming independence as the United States of America. Flag Day recognizes the adoption of our nation's flag in 1777.

The flag as we know it today has thirteen stripes to recognize the original thirteen colonies and 50 stars to represent each of the 50 states. The colors of red, white and blue represent valor (red), purity (white), and vigilance and justice (blue). Next time you see those flags, you now have a little more to consider.