National holiday

                                              photo Els Hattink 
At the occasion of July 4, the American national holiday, I am sending best wishes to all who are celebrating whilst sharing the Belgian Tricolore and  ... a typical refreshment to mark the day. 

National holiday by guest photographer (I)

As I was not around on July 21, the national holiday in Belgium, I invited my friend Els Hattink (photographer and painter) whom I wrote about a few times in the past, to share her impression to fill the void. 
http://www.elshattink.net 

Festive weekend ahead

Independence day is celebrated on July 21 but this year will be a bit special. King Albert II will step down in favor of his son Philippe. The abdication ceremony will take place at the Royal Palace, Sunday morning and shortly afterwards the new king will be sworn in before both chambers of the Belgian parliament.
What will you be doing during these festivities? Participate in the "bal populaire" Saturday night, have a beer or watch the events from a distance? 
http://www.21july.monarchie.be/