National Night Out

By Emily Tittle

Looking for a family-friendly event everyone can enjoy?

Tuesday, August 2 is National Night Out.

It happens every year at locations across the country, including many places here in the Greater Dayton area. It promotes police and community partnerships, with the goal of making our neighborhoods safer, more caring places to live. It brings community and police together in positive circumstances.

What does National Night Out look like? Well, it’s different in every city. But many offer free food and games, safety demonstrations, activities and visits from emergency personnel. Some places have scavenger hunts, parades and festivals. You can learn more about anti-crime groups and programs, too.

There’s many events happening in the Greater Dayton areas.

Centerville: The Centerville Police Department is hosting “Mystery Night Out.” The theme this year is “When the lights flash, don’t pass,” raising awareness on school bus safety. Check-in begins at 5 p.m. at the Stubbs Park Amphitheater. Participants will receive and solve clues using their smartphone. Each solved clued will take participants to a location in the Centerville area. If you don’t want to complete the challenge, you can still enjoy music, games, raffle prizes and more at Stubbs Park.

Dayton: The Dayton Police Department leads the Neighborhood Tour Caravan, making stops at various National Night Out community celebrations across the city.

Huber Heights: The Huber Heights Police and Fire Departments will be at Wayne High School, 5400 Chambersburg Road, for the event on August 2 from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. There will also be a cruise-in, arts and crafts, free child ID cards, food trucks, raffles and more.

Franklin: The event will be at Franklin Community Park from 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. on August 2. Police promise food, music and fun in the spirit of community partnership and crime prevention.

Miami Township: Police are hosting a kickoff celebration on July 30 from 12 p.m. – 4 p.m. at the Dayton Mall. Cruisers from several law enforcement agencies will be there, along with fun activities for the family They will also be visiting community block parties on August 2, beginning at 6 p.m. and continuing until the last one ends.

Moraine: National Night Out will be held on August 2 at Wax Park, 3800 Main Street.

Vandalia: National Night Out Against Crime will be held at the Sports Complex from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Check with your local police department for more details about the event or what happens if there is inclement weather.

For more information about National Night Out, or to see if your city is participating!