Ria Beri ‘27
EE Editor-in-Chief
From backyard barbecues and sparklers to cupcakes and fireworks, the Fourth of July is a summer tradition marked by celebration, reflection, and community. In Trumbull, students across town come together to celebrate in their own unique ways, such as playing lawn games, baking patriotic treats, or spending time with family and friends.
While the day commemorates the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776 and the beginning of America’s fight for freedom, the holiday has taken on a personal meaning for many Trumbull teens. The Eagle’s Eye interviewed several students to learn more about how they celebrate the Fourth and what the day means to them.
For Naima Estime ‘28, the Fourth of July is all about relaxing with loved ones. Estime said, “We don’t have a strict tradition. We just go with the flow and do whatever comes our way.”
Estime shared that her family typically makes s’mores or enjoys a barbecue at home. One of her favorite childhood memories is wearing an American flag dress to a cookout, a small moment that made the day feel special. Her favorite treat? S’mores by the fire. Estime also recalled enjoying Trumbull Day fireworks but says her favorite show took place over Pinewood Lake.
“I like most that it brings people and families together,” she added.
Charlotte Nguyen ‘28 shared a similar view. For her family, the day doubles as a celebration of her parents’ wedding anniversary.
“We don’t really have any set traditions,” Nguyen explained. “It’s usually just whatever works that year.”
Sometimes the family stays local and eats out; other times, they visit relatives in New Jersey. Nguyen enjoys sweet treats—especially cupcakes and cookies—and said her family likes to explore different fireworks shows each year.
“We go everywhere,” she said, “but the Trumbull Day display stands out. We always try to find new places to watch from.”
For Nguyen, the holiday is less about tradition and more about spending time with the people she loves.
“Getting together with family and friends and celebrating a holiday together,” she said, is what matters most.
For Arshia Mamidanna ‘25, the Fourth of July has always felt more like a community celebration than a patriotic event.
“My family and I usually celebrate at a friend’s house,” she said. “It’s kind of like a mini outdoor festival—with badminton, the classic egg challenge, water balloon games, and more.”
One of her favorite memories is hitting a home run in a neighborhood wiffle ball game.
“That was definitely the best part of my day,” she recalled.
Mamidanna’s Fourth usually ends with cake and fireworks in the backyard. Her favorite treats include watermelon with spices and marshmallow cupcakes made by a friend’s mom.
“It’s lowkey but so full of energy and joy,” she said.
However, her perspective on the holiday has shifted in recent years. After taking a Constitutional Debate course and participating in the We the People competition, Mamidanna said she has become more reflective about the ideals behind the holiday.
Mamidanna reflected: “Yes, it’s a moment in history worth remembering, but it’s hard to celebrate when so many of those ideals—liberty, equality, and the pursuit of happiness—still feel out of reach.”
She noted concerns about reproductive rights, LGBTQ+ protections, and access to truthful education as examples of freedoms she feels are being rolled back.
“I don’t always feel free in this country. Even though my parents are here legally and work hard, they don’t always feel safe or free, especially under today’s political climate.”
For Mamidanna, the day is more about finding joy and connection than waving flags.
“It’s a chance to feel joy, even in a country where right now ‘freedom’ doesn’t always apply equally.”
Whether through cookouts, cupcakes, or time spent with family, Trumbull teens are creating meaningful traditions that reflect both their personal values and shared experiences. As the sky lights up with fireworks, these small moments come together to shape what the Fourth of July means to them.
Feature Photo Courtesy: Greenvelope