A very Brussels 4th of July

Red, white and blue macaroons 

How will you celebrate American Independence Day in Brussels?

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This past Wednesday, the U.S. Embassy to Belgium held its annual Independence Day celebration in a big tent just off Parc Royal in Brussels.

While much swankier than a typical Fourth of July party, you still managed to find pockets of good ol’ American tradition at the party: mini burgers and pizzas, a fridge full of Budweiser beer and a lovely live band of U.S. Army and Navy officers. Then there were elements that paired Belgian cuisine with American flair: a fantastic hot dog stand including mayonnaise as a condiment option, and red, white and blue macaroons. Yum.

The U.S. Ambassador to Belgium Denise Bauer reminded us that this Fourth of July takes place in World War One’s centennial year and is therefore very special for Belgium and the U.S.: “our shared history, whether through the family ties of immigration, or the bonds forged in the midst of war, brings us closer together… as President Obama said at Flanders Field American Cemetery in March, ‘Americans and Belgians will always stand together for freedom, for dignity, and for the triumph of the human spirit.’" I could sure eat my mayonnaise-covered hot dog to that.

More Independence Day Celebrations in Brussels on Friday July 4th:

While perhaps not as high-scale (perhaps a good thing), some other Brussels venues are proposing Independence Day festivities for Americans far away from home: 

Big Volunteer Week’s Big 4th of July Party:
Rounding up the end of their Big Volunteer Week, join Serve the City Volunteers on Friday July 4th at 18:30 at Rue de L'Epee 8, Brussels to celebrate Independence Day together with friends from Virginia and New Jersey! Share a meal together and make new friends!

The cost of dinner is 10 euro per person; RVSP to catalina@servethecity.be if you would like to attend (so they know how much to prepare).

Hard Rock Café Brussels’  “Let’s Celebrate Independence Day!”
Hard Rock Cafe Brussels is putting up US decorations, Live Music and encouraging a general American atmosphere to celebrate the 4th of July this year. 

Plus, a fantastic bonus: Show your American ID or your member card of an American club and get a free large beer for any burger ordered! More info here.

4th of July BBQ at Jack O’Shea Brussels
Jack O’Shea Brussels would like to invite you all to come for a BBQ on Friday to celebrate the 4th of July. They'll be set up in front of the shop, flipping burgers, sausages, brochettes, you name it. There will probably be some wine and beer involved as well;) 

Read more about the event and invite your friends here.

Photos courtesy of U.S. Embassy to Belgium, Jack O'Shea, Hard Rock Cafe and Serve the City Brussels