Haitian Flag Day is celebrated annually on May 18 as a national holiday in Haiti, commemorating the establishment of the Haitian flag during the Haitian Revolution. The flag was approved on this day in 1803, marking a significant moment in Haiti's history as the country sought independence from French colonial rule. The flag symbolizes patriotism and the resilience of the Haitian people, with blue representing Haitians of African heritage and red representing "Gens de couleur," or people of color. The day is observed not only in Haiti but also in several U.S. cities with large Haitian populations. Typical customs include commemorative events and celebrations that often feature traditional foods, such as griot, a dish made of pork flavored with Scotch bonnet chiles. The significance of the flag and the day reflects the cultural heritage and liberation of the Haitian people.