When the original Seattle flag was adopted, the resolution stated:

“The colors shall be white and teal… (the color of Puget Sound at dusk).”

The teal on the contemporary flag continues this symbolism.

The white on the contemporary Seattle Flag symbolizes the mountains encircling the city.

Seattle flag surrounded by trees in the snowy cascade mountain range.
A collage image for the Seattle flag symbolism. It the shows the Seattle flag in front of the MOHAI boats as well as a circle made out of hands, snowcapped mountains, waves, and the flag sculpted to look like mountains

Waves of Puget Sound

Seven Puget Sound waves flowing into one another adorn the flag.

The Seattle Flag in the Cascade trails

Their connection to one another represent our common bonds as Seattleites

 

The interconnection of the waves symbolize this passage from the Resolution adopting the current city flag.

“Whereas, the Goodwill Games and the Goodwill Arts Festival reaffirm the City’s belief that the future well being, if not survival of all citizens, is dependent upon our recognition of common bonds and shared responsibilities;”

Or in short, the connection between each wave symbolizes our common bonds.

An excerpt from the Resolution adopting the 1990 flag reading. "Whereas, the Goodwill Games and the Goodwill Arts Festival reaffirm the City's belief that the future well being, if not survival of all citizens, is dependent upon our common bonds.

Why Seattle Deserves a Beautiful City Flag

Learn about the history of Seattle establishing its current flag, flag design principles, and why design matters when sharing your passion for your community.

Learn more