The Austin Police Department will be holding its annual National Night Out event at Bandshell Park from 4 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 1. The event will be an opportunity for the community to meet Austin’s police as well as some other emergency responders.

“We’re hoping to bring citizens out to meet police officers in a friendly, inviting environment,” said Officer Chad Norman, who helped organize the event. “When we respond to calls, we’re not meeting people under the best circumstances. This is a relaxed way for us to meet.”

Hormel Foods, Hy-Vee and Featherlite Graphics are sponsoring this year’s event.

According to Norman, the event has grown steadily each year, with over 1,500 people attending last year.

This year, police cars, fire trucks and ambulances will be on display for kids to tour. There will be games for kids provided by the Austin Pizza Ranch. Police officers, fire fighters and paramedics will be available to talk to the public and answer questions about crime prevention and public safety. The VFW Ladies Auxiliary will hold a raffle for children’s prizes.

Free hot dogs, chips and beverages will be available thanks to donations from Hormel Foods and Hy-Vee. Pizza Ranch will also have free samples of their cactus bread available.

Norman encourages everyone to attend this free event.

“Come out and show your support for the police department and show criminals in Austin that the police and citizens are united against them,” he said. “It’s a good casual event to meet the officers.”

For more information, call Sergeant Kim Lenz or Officer Chad Norman at 507-437-9400.