Although most of us think about fireworks’ displays and family barbecues when we consider Independence Day, the holiday cost our forefathers a great deal. In fact, we owe our freedom to the work they did and the sacrifices they made. So, as we make plans to celebrate the important event this year, let’s take a few moments to consider what the holiday means.

Drafted by Thomas Jefferson between June 11 and June 28, 1776, the Declaration of Independence is at once the nation’s most cherished symbol of liberty and Jefferson’s most enduring monument. Here, in exalted and unforgettable phrases, Jefferson expressed the convictions in the minds and hearts of the American people. The political philosophy of the Declaration was not new; its ideals of individual liberty had already been expressed by John Locke and the Continental philosophers. What Jefferson did was to summarize this philosophy in “self-evident truths” and set forth a list of grievances against the King in order to justify before the world the breaking of ties between the colonies and the mother country.

Independence Day is celebrated across the United States to commemorate the signing of this important document. In Lake Arrowhead, we make much of the 4^th of July. Come up on July 3 for the free holiday-weekend concerts. Thursday, July 3 will feature a Bon Jovi tribute band called Wanted. Since the 4^th is on a Friday this year, you’ll be able to pick up plenty of fresh fruits and veggies at the Lake Arrowhead Village Farmer’s Market from 2-8 p.m. All weekend long, in Arrowhead, you’ll be able to relax in great weather, breathing fresh air. On the 4^th, the free concert will be Belladonna, which is a Stevie Nicks’ tribute. Come early to Belgian because we close early to allow our employees to celebrate with family and friends. On July 5^th, the band will be Dead Man’s Party, which is a tribute to Oingo Boingo. Finally, on July 6, the holiday series wraps up from 1-3 p.m. with a group that plays 60s, 70s and 80s hits, Playback.

This summer and all year long, Belgian Waffle Works is a full-service family restaurant featuring 17 original specialty Belgian-style waffles, homemade soups, fresh market salads, gourmet sandwiches, juicy burgers, homemade breads, Espresso, Cappuccino, premium desserts, wine, beer, specialty drinks and more. In fact, this year, our menu will include fondue. Belgian Waffle Works’ waffles are made from an exclusive mix, which is available for sale onsite and online. Come join us for breakfast, lunch or dinner. You’ll be glad you did!