Before the National Anthem begins, crowds will usually be asked to stand. This is a sign of appreciation for our nation and its core values, which is why it’s important to follow proper etiquette and stand for the Anthem. The entire Anthem should only last for a couple of minutes, so standing isn’t going to leave you “winded.”

Face the Flag

Many people assume that they should face the person who is singing the National Anthem, but this isn’t necessarily true. If there’s an American Flag being displayed — and there usually is — you should face it instead. If there is not a flag on display, you should face the person whom is singing the National Anthem, giving them your full attention.

Remove Your Hat

If you are wearing a hat, you should remove it for the duration of the National Anthem (unless it’s being worn for religious purposes). This tradition goes back more than a century, a time when wearing a hat indoors was considered rude.

Place Right Hand Over Your Heart

Next, place your right hand over your heart. Assuming you are wearing a hat, remove it with your right hand and place it over your heart.

What About Military Service Men and Women?

Military service men and women should perform the military salute at the beginning of the National Anthem, holding this posture until the end.

Did You Know?

Here’s a fun fact that not many people know: the Star-Spangled Banner had been around for 75 years before it became the National Anthem. It wasn’t until 1889 when Secretary of the Navy Benjamin F. Tracy signed an order to make the Star-Spangled