The name on the map

Lake Ontario
Lake America.

A legendary American shoreline. A bold federal name. On August 27, 2026, a U.S. executive order directed the federal government to rename Lake Ontario “Lake America.” Here is what changed, what did not, and why the new name inspired LAGA Hats.

What the executive order directs

The order directs the U.S. Secretary of the Interior, working with the Board on Geographic Names, to take appropriate steps within 30 days to adopt Lake America in federal naming systems. It also directs an update to the Geographic Names Information System and guidance so federal maps, contracts, documents, and communications reflect the new federal name.

Read the official White House executive order

Federal naming is not universal naming

The lake is international, bordered by New York and the Canadian province of Ontario. The order governs U.S. federal usage; it does not itself require Canada, Ontario, international organizations, private mapmakers, newsrooms, or individuals to adopt the name. Depending on the source and jurisdiction, you may encounter both “Lake Ontario” and “Lake America.”

A great new name deserves a great hat

Lake America Great Again. LAGA. The phrase has Great Lakes energy, American confidence, and just enough lift to belong across the front of a red embroidered hat. We saw the new federal name and knew the shoreline needed merchandise with presence.

LAGA Hats is an independent American merchandise company—bold, patriotic, forthcoming, and building its first release carefully. Join the shop launch list or review the launch FAQ.