The Best Ways To Show Your State Pride

America is not only a country but a union of fifty states, as well. You may even see yourself as a Texan, Minnesotan, or Californian first and an American second. We all share American patriotism, but that doesn’t stop us from looking for some bragging rights over our neighboring states, too. Whether you’re a born-and-raised native or a recent transplant who has fallen in love with a new state, you deserve some outlets for those bragging rights. Here are some of the best ways to show your state pride at home and on the road.

How To Show Your State Pride

1. Fly State Flags

If you already have a flagpole flying the American flag, you can supplement the Stars and Stripes with your home state’s flag. U.S. state flags often have some very interesting and eye-catching designs of their own. Maryland’s flag honors its founding families’ standards with a striking blend of red, yellow, black, and white. The indigenous-inspired flag of New Mexico features a simple but memorable southwestern sun design. And there’s no mistaking California’s flag with its trademark grizzly bear. Remember, when flying a state flag, it should always fly beneath the national one.

You can display your state flag at home, in your yard, or on your car. This is a simple and visible way to show your pride and connect with fellow residents. We would recommend considering buying one of our residential flagpoles or commercial flagpoles, such as the telescoping flagpole as this will ensure your state flag display has the most impact and visibility to the public.

2. Wear State School Apparel

Whether you’re a metalworker in Milwaukee or a dairy farmer in Rhinelander, love for the University of Wisconsin and their Badgers brings the whole state together. The same holds true across many of our fifty states—though when it comes to rivalries like the University of Michigan versus Michigan State, some folks may beg to differ. College sports are big business, and there’s plenty of merchandise to choose from, whether you attended that school or not. Show your state pride with T-shirts, hats, and hoodies bearing the name of your state’s flagship university. This will allow you to bring some North Carolina blue, Texas burnt orange, or Oregon neon green with you everywhere you go.

3. Home Décor

A well-appointed man cave can make a little room for a display of state pride, and you don’t even have to live in the state capital to pursue it. If you can get your hands on some old license plates, you can put together a nice conversation piece on the wall featuring the evolution of your state’s plates. For people who don’t want their flags to get weathered, you can frame and mount your state flag for an accent of vivid color on the wall—especially if you’re showing pride in Arizona, Maryland, or Colorado. The same goes for sports uniforms from the flagship school. State-themed décor can be one of the best ways to show your state pride by doing a little bit of everything. Decorate your home with items that reflect your state’s culture, such as artwork of local landscapes, state flowers, or handcrafted items from local artisans.

4. Participate in State Festivals and Events

Another way you can show your state pride is by participating in state festivals and events. Attend state fairs, parades, and festivals that celebrate local culture, history, and traditions. These events often highlight the best of what your state has to offer and bring the community together.

Festivals often commemorate significant historical events or traditions unique to your state. Engaging in these events helps you learn more about your state’s past, deepening your appreciation for its history and the contributions of those who came before.

There are many ways that you can participate at state festivals and events, here are some examples:

• Attending as a spectator
• Volunteering
• Entering in competitions or contests
• Performing or exhibiting
• Setting up a stall
• Joining a parade
• Attending local workshops or classes

5. Support State Sports Teams

Cheer for your state’s sports teams, whether they’re professional, college, or high school teams. Wearing team colors, attending games, and watching broadcasts are all ways to express your support and state pride.

When state sports teams succeed, it’s a source of pride for everyone in the state. Celebrating these victories together fosters a sense of unity and shared accomplishment, transcending regional differences and personal backgrounds.

You should also cheer for your national athletes when competing against other countries, for example during events like the Olympics and World Cup. This helps to express pride and patriotism for your state and unites individuals.

6. Learn and Share State History

Do your research to learn more about your state history and educate yourself about your state’s famous landmarks, and key figures. Share this knowledge with others, either in person or through social media, to promote awareness and pride in your state’s past.

Historical knowledge can lead to greater engagement in local events and traditions. By understanding the historical significance of certain practices or celebrations, you become more involved and invested in maintaining these traditions.

7. Explore Your State

Visit state parks, historical sites, and local attractions. Exploring your state’s natural beauty and cultural landmarks deepens your connection to the place and gives you more reasons to be proud. Support your national parks by volunteering or donating to help preserve them.

Why is it important to show your state pride

By showing your state pride, this can bring people together and create a sense of unity among residents. It helps to reinforce identity and belonging, as well as preserves traditions that keep your state alive. Expressing your state pride can also inspire residents to engage in local governance and contribute to their community. It teaches others to value their cultural heritage and ensures that future generations uphold the traditions.

Show your state pride with an American flag

Show your pride and patriotism for the American nation with authentic American flags. Display your flag on a residential flagpole or commercial flagpole available to buy at Federal Flags in a range of size options. Shop online today for 100% USA made flags, covering all national flags. For more information, please get in touch with our professionals.