South Brunswick Holds Largest National Night Out In New Jersey

SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ — Did you know? Ever year, the South Brunswick Police Department holds one of the largest National Night Out celebrations in the state.

Come out and join your community from 6-9 p.m. Tuesday, August 1 in Rowland Park. The National Night Out celebration is a free event with food, rides and attractions. The South Brunswick Library will also be there with children's crafts, activities and the Bookmobile. This national event highlights the partnership between police and the community.

“This is a special night that highlights our unique partnership with the community," said Police Chief Raymond Hayducka. "So often it is residents getting involved that make the difference, and this night looks to strengthen those relationships.”

South Brunswick's National Night Out typically draws thousands of residents and is annually recognized as being one of the best National Nights Out celebrations in New Jersey. This year’s event will feature:

Interactive police displays

• Interactive police department displays include Patrol Division (patrol car and gear)
• Investigations Division (crime scene processing with dusting for prints)
• Communications Center Operators, Traffic Division (impacts of impaired driving with drunk goggles). Officers and detectives will be on hand to talk about police work in South Brunswick and how you can get involved.

Touch-a-Truck Display

• Monmouth Junction, Kendall Park, Kingston Fire Departments firetrucks
• Monmouth Junction EMS , Kendall Park First Aid, Kingston EMS ambulances
• South Brunswick Township Public Works Heavy Duty Trucks
• NJ State Fire Service trucks and Smokey the Bear

Rides

• 5 inflatable amusements (bounce houses)
• 2 carnival rides
• Rock wall
• Sports and Fitness Annex (Interactive sports and fitness activities for all levels)

Video Games

• Video game truck
• Head-to-head video games presented by Best Buy

Food

• Hot dogs, water, soda, chips, popcorn, cookies, ice cream, ice pops

Entertainment – on the center stage

• Dance and musical performances

The event is held in conjunction with the South Brunswick Municipal Alliance, which will have a Community Unity Day Pavilion set up with 36+ displays on drug-free and healthy living. The Middlesex County Health Department will be on hand with free health and dental screenings in air conditioned tents.

The evening would not be possible if not for the support of our business community. This year’s National Night Out major sponsors include: DCN Hyundai, Coca-Cola, AT&T, Pierre’s, High Grade Beverage, Target, Eno Terra, Stop N Shop, Rasoi, Costco, Retro Fitness, Wakefern and Maxx Fitness

Sergeant Gene Rickle, the program coordinator said, “The night celebrates our partnership with the community but its takes countless volunteers and months of planning to make it all a success. Come meet the officers and celebrate a great night together.”

All photos supplied by South Brunswick police.