Cinnaminson Township’s annual National Night Out returns this year on Tuesday, Aug. 2. The free event will take place at Wood Park from 6 p.m. to 9:45 p.m., and will offer food, rides, live music and a movie playing on the big screen. First responders from the community will be present to greet local residents.
National Night Out is a campaign that builds community and promotes the partnerships between the police department and the residents they serve. The goal of the event is to make local neighborhoods a safer place for people to live and to protect the community against crime.
Matt Peskin from Wynnewood, Pennsylvania founded National Night Out in 1970. The first events were held in the suburbs surrounding Philadelphia, and have since expanded in towns across the country and in U.S. military bases around the world. National Night Out usually occurs on the first Tuesday in August, although other U.S. states like Texas observe the event on the first Tuesday in October. Millions of people currently participate in the yearly festivities.
Chief Richard Calabrese from the Cinnaminson Township Police Department is looking forward to attending Cinnaminson’s National Night Out.
“Cinnaminson Township hosts a number of events throughout the year which promote positive interactions between law enforcement and our residents,” Calabrese said. He believes the event makes a significant impact on the community, and allows everyone to come together in one place.
Calabrese is excited about connecting with the people in his local community, and appreciates how the event supports a good cause in a lighthearted and fun way.
“The Cinnaminson Township Police Department is proud to participate in this annual national event,” Calabrese said. “It builds upon our police-community partnership with our residents and gives us all an opportunity to have a little fun with the members of our community.”
Cinnaminson residents who attend National Night Out will certainly be entertained throughout the evening. Children can enjoy face painting and inflatable rides, and residents of all ages can satisfy their appetites with food and gelato. There will be live music by “Willy B and the Backyard Boyz” and a screening of the PG-rated movie, “Mitchells vs. the Machines” starting at 8 p.m.
Police vehicles and fire trucks will be on display, giving residents a chance to meet Cinnaminson’s local police officers and firefighters. National Night Out is successful because of its sponsors, which include ShopRite Cinnaminson, The Merion, Whistlers Inn Restaurant, Bagelati, Sam’s Club, and A&S Printing. With a number of exciting activities to participate in, Cinnaminson’s National Night Out is sure to be a memorable event for all who attend.
