Memorial Day is more than backyard barbecues and summer sales—it’s a time to honor the brave Americans who gave their lives in service to our country.

And this year, Ace Hardware is once again making it easy to show your gratitude and pride.

You can stop by your local Ace and walk away with a free American flag—no purchase required.

But don’t wait too long—these flags tend to fly off the shelves.



From 11 AM to 2 PM local time on Saturday, May 24, participating Ace Hardware stores, along with the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) across the country, will hand out one million free American flags to honor fallen service members and help customers proudly display their support.

It’s part of Ace’s long-standing tradition of giving back and keeping the true meaning of Memorial Day front and center.

Pro Tip: Arrive early—quantities are limited, and flags go fast every year.



At The GrayVine, we know many of our readers have personal ties to the military.

Whether you’ve served yourself, loved someone who did, or simply want to pay your respects, flying the American flag is a small but deeply meaningful gesture.

This annual giveaway is a chance to remember, reflect, and unite as a nation.

While you’re at Ace, don’t miss out on their biggest sale of the season.

Now through Memorial Day (Monday, May 26), you can score major discounts on summer essentials—from backyard upgrades to home improvement tools.



Also read: Big changes for veterans’ families: What the new VA survivor benefits mean for you

1. Grills & Outdoor Cooking

• Save on top-tier brands like Weber, Blackstone, and Big Green Egg.
• Bonus: Buy a grill in-store through July 7 and receive a FREE Omaha Steaks bundle—12 burgers and 12 jumbo franks ($62.98 value).

2. Premium Tools

• DIYers rejoice: DeWalt power tools and accessories are on sale, perfect for home projects big or small.

3. Outdoor Equipment

• Get your yard summer-ready with Ego Power+ mowers, trimmers, and more—at prices that make it easy to go green.

4. Patio Furniture & Accessories

• Create a cozy, stylish outdoor oasis with markdowns on furniture built to last.

5. Ace Rewards Exclusive Perks

• Rewards members enjoy free assembly and delivery on grills and push mowers priced at $399 or more. Not a member? Signing up is free and can save you big.

Also read: Incredible comeback: Disabled employees, veterans, and military spouses rehired at major science agency

Mark your calendar​

• Free Flag Giveaway: Saturday, May 24 from 11 AM–2 PM (while supplies last)
• Memorial Day: Monday, May 26, 2025
• Ace Sale Runs: Through May 26 (grill promo through July 7)

Whether you’re refreshing your backyard or planning a cookout, Memorial Day weekend is the perfect time to save—and to remember what matters most.

How to get your free flag

1. Find a participating Ace Hardware location.
2. Show up between 11 AM and 2 PM on Saturday, May 24.
3. Pick up your flag—no purchase necessary.
4. Display it proudly as a tribute to those who served.

Read next: Just in time for grilling season, a new burger hits the market—and you can try it for free
Do you have a Memorial Day tradition, a loved one who served, or a favorite way to honor the holiday? We’d love to hear from you. Share your stories, reflections, and celebrations in the comments below—and let’s make this Memorial Day a meaningful one, together.