By Andrea Holata

BRIGHTON — From June 30 through July 4, the Brighton community celebrated Independence Day across the reservation.

Sponsored by the Recreation Department and the Brighton Council Office, activities were held throughout the week to entertain the community.

Activities started on the morning of June 30 with a fishing tournament for the adults and youth. The tournament started at 6 a.m., with the final weigh-in at 1 p.m.

With several age categories, everyone had a chance to win. The categories were based on the biggest catfish, mudfish, bass and the total weight of brim/specs caught.

To help kick off the holiday, there were also many activities held throughout the week.

Youth ages 5-17 had the opportunity to show off their basketball skills with three-on-three tournaments on July 2.

The next day, the community participated in a 5K walk, kickball tournament and co-ed softball tournament.

Then on July 4, the community enjoyed a fun-filled day of activities, including horseshoes, the game closest to the pin, a pie-eating contest, a watermelon roll, tug-of-war and cornhole for seniors.

The children enjoyed face painting, a balloon artist and Italian ice. 

Following all the activities, attendees enjoyed dinner and a friendly game of bingo while they waited for the sun to go down.

Although it rained sporadically, family, friends and neighbors ended the day with a beautiful fireworks display. 

“This is what Fourth of July is all about: everybody coming out, having fun, smiling and laughing,” Tribalwide Recreation director Richard Blankenship said.