Club banners

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One of Rotary’s most vibrant traditions is the exchange of club banners.

These decorative banners, often displayed at meetings and district events, are carried by Rotarians traveling abroad to exchange with other clubs.

Typically, the banners feature symbols or artistic elements that represent the club’s town, region, or national culture, including handcrafted touches like embroidery, weaving, or painting.

Many of these banners are considered artworks in their own right.

The tradition grew so popular that, in 1959, the Rotary International Board of Directors advised clubs to exercise moderation, fearing that the exchanges could become financially burdensome.

Despite this, the tradition continues today as a meaningful expression of goodwill and international friendship among Rotary members.

The Rotary archives now hold around 20,000 banners, each one reflecting a club’s local pride and the strong global ties of the Rotary organization.

This exchange practice remains a cherished symbol of unity and mutual respect.