“And even should the cloud of barbarism and despotism again obscure the science and liberties of Europe, this country remains to preserve and restore light and liberty to them. In short, the flames kindled on the 4th. of July 1776, have spread over too much of the globe to be extinguished by the feeble engines of despotism. On the contrary they will consume those engines, and all who work them.” — Thomas Jefferson, September 12, 1821 letter to friend John Adams.
WILLIAMS – The small town celebration of Independence in the city of Williams is filled with everything except fireworks. The only fireworks display will come from the possible thunderstorms through the weekend. Very little precipitation is expected.
The celebration by celebrating the birth date of one of the cities most prominent citizens born on the day Congress declared independence from Great Britain on July 2d. After Congress voted for independence, John Adams wrote a letter to his beloved Abigail which included this oft quoted selection:
“But the Day is past. The Second Day of July 1776, will be the most memorable Epocha, in the History of America.- I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated, by succeeding Generations, as the great anniversary Festival. It ought to be commemorated, as the Day of Deliverance by Solemn Acts of Devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with Pomp and Parade, with Shews, Games, Sports, Guns, Bells, Bonfire and Illuminations from one End of this Continent to the other from this Time forward forever more.”
“You will think me transported with Enthusiasm but I am not. – I am well aware of the Toil and Blood and Treasure, that it will cost Us to maintain this Declaration, and support and defend these States. – Yet through all the Gloom I can see the Rays of ravishing Light and Glory. I can see that the End is more than worth all the Means. And that Posterity will tryumph in that Days Transaction, even altho We should rue it, which I trust in God We shall not.”
Despite the limitations, Williams will move forward with a full weekend of activities. In addition to the planned activities, you can also plan a trip to the Grand Canyon with Marvelous Marv’s Private Grand Canyon Tour. Drive through Bearizona wild life park and check out the animals up close in the walk through area. Or take a ride on the Zipline on Railroad Avenue.
When you get hungry, you can try out one of the restaurants in Williams noted by the award winning Arizona Highways magazine. Twister’s on the east end of town, Red Raven in the Grand Canyon Hotel on Second Avenue, and the most recently honored Grand Canyon Coffee and Cafe. We suggest you try the signature Canyon Burrito. All of these establishments are located right along historic Route 66.
KIWANIS CLUB “ROUTE 66 STREET MARKET” (JULY 4-6) Every weekend starts on Friday with the Kiwanis Club Route 66 Street Market to support Kiwanis scholarships. The market is located on Railroad Avenue across the street from Williams Memorial Park on the west end of town. For more info contact Bud 928-635-4393.
WORLD MISSION FUND RAISER (JULY 4) 11am. BBQ, chicken on a stick, hot dogs, sno-cones, drinks, bounce house, balloon toss, cupcake walk, watermelon eating contest. Free activities for kids. Family Harvest Church 220 S. Seventh Street. More information 928 635 5208
COMMUNITY EVENT (July 4th) 1pm-6pm Williams and Forest Service Visitor Parking Lot on the corner of Railroad Ave and Grand Canyon Blvd. Community Prayer at 1:00pm. 2pm-6pm Food, games, crafters. For more information 928 635-0273 x 210.
TRACTOR DISPLAY – (JULY 4-6) from 9am-6pm- Hit & Miss engine and Tractors. Located on 2nd street and Route 66
INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION – (July 4th) Noon-4pm Williams Aquatic Center (RAILROAD AVE) Hot Dogs, Door Prizes, Fun, Games, families Welcome, Free Community Swim 12pm-4pm. Free Lunch from noon-2pm. Sponsored by Friends of the Williams Aquatic Center.
COMMUNITY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH (July 4th) 4pm Ice Cream Social4pm. 127 W. Sherman Ave.
Call 928 6352511 for more information.
STAR GAZING (JULY 4) 7:30 pm-9:30 pm Glassburn Park, natural area. Bring your own telescope or observe the night sky through the large telescopes provided by the Coconino Astronomical Society. Bring a blanket, chair and a friend.
HOME TOWN INDEPENDENCE DAY PARADE (JULY 4) 6:30 pm. This year’s theme is “Pride in Our Past…Faith in Our Future.” Parade down old Route 66. Bring your Red White and Blue!
WORLD SERIES OF TEAM ROPING QUALIFIER (JULY 4-7) Fuller productions, where team ropers compete in the best team roping event in Arizona. Located at the rodeo grounds (800 Rodeo Road). Call 928.692.8465 for more information.
STEAM TO THE CANYON (JULY 5) Celebrate the 4th of July weekend by riding the historic locomotive #4960 to the Grand Canyon. www.thetrain.com