National Anthem Etiquette for the Super Bowl
Like saying the Pledge of Allegiance in grammar school, the National Anthem dictates a certain set of respectful behaviors. Whether you are fortunate enough to get a seat at the Super Bowl or just following along at home, this portion of the event is not a time for a snack or a bathroom break. Federal law actually spells out how to behave during the National Anthem. Does this Spark an idea?
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The Basic Position
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Before the anthem begins, the announcer or singer asks the fans in the bleachers, players and stadium staff to stand. If you are out of your seat on the way to or from the bathroom or snack stands, stop where you are immediately and stay put. Don't try to return to your seat or head to a vantage point where you can see the anthem performer. Stand with your right hand on your chest, roughly where your heart is. If you are wearing a hat when the anthem begins -- giant foam or otherwise -- remove it and hold it against your chest with your right hand. When removing your hat before then anthem, it should sit on your chest at your left shoulder so you hand is still over your heart. Your hat itself should not be held over your heart.
Where to Face
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According to the United States Code, Title 36 Section 301, when the anthem begins, you should face the American flag. At the Super Bowl, finding the actual flag among the sea of people, banners and occasional pyrotechnics can be a bit like playing "Where's Waldo?" If you spot the flag on one of the Jumbotron screens on stage with the anthem singer, face that flag. Otherwise, the U.S. Code advises you to face the music -- in this case the stage and the singer, since the speakers are scattered throughout the stadium. Those tuning in from home should turn toward to the TV.
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What Not to Do
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Staying seated during the national anthem isn't the only possible faux pas. Due to both the performance aspect of the Super Bowl anthem and the solemnity of the moment, listeners should not talk during the song. According to Emily Post, you should also refrain from eating, chewing gum or smoking during the anthem. When the music begins or the announcer calls the audience to stand, put down your food and spit out any gum or chewing tobacco. If you are watching the game in a bar or at home, extinguish your cigarette or at least rest it on an ashtray until the anthem finishes.
How Long to Stand
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Even though the crowd typically breaks out into raucous cheering and applause once the performer has finished singing, that does not technically signal the end of the official salute. Listeners should remain in position until the last note of the national anthem has rung out and ended. Some performers who sing the national anthem at the Super Bowl put their own twist on the song, particularly the instrumentals. Depending on the singer's interpretation, the actually music of the song may conclude after the singer has stopped holding the note. Listen carefully and remain in place with your hand over your heart until every part of the music has ended.
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