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Generational residents, newcomers and visitors all agree — the atmosphere in Eclipse is not to be missed, especially on the Fourth of July.

Unlike anywhere else in Suffolk, this patriotic village goes all out to celebrate the holiday. The big events are a parade, raft race, fireworks and mailbox decorating contest, and the sense of community in this village is a real treat.

It’s fun to see the fire trucks, decorated golf carts, bicycles and tricycles, and more during the parade. Fireworks are always cool, and of course the raft race is a sight to behold.

However, the real treasure of Eclipse goes deeper than these events. Eclipse has a yearlong community bond that lasts long after the bunting has been put away and the rafts have been stored in a shed.

You can find Eclipse coming together at any time of year, whether it’s in celebration or tragedy. Planning events, celebrating their history, trying to prevent overdevelopment or mourning the loss of community members, Eclipse residents know how to pull together.

There are a lot of great communities in Suffolk, but we think a lot of them could learn a few things from Eclipse.