For many people, interactions with police, EMS or other first responders happen in stressful or dangerous situations. To help build positive connections between community helpers and members of the community, Northwest Regional Police Department will host National Night Out on Tuesday, Aug. 6. The event will be held at the Mount Joy Township complex, 8855 Elizabethtown Road, Elizabethtown, from 6 to 9 p.m.

"Too many times, people come in contact with police when help is needed," explained detective Chuck Tobias. "Come see and talk to the first responders and get to know them on a positive note."

Added Jill Munafo, secretary of Northwest Regional Police Department, "It's a great way for the public to interact with first responders in a community setting and get to know them on a personal basis, not just in the heat of an emergency. All of the participants really care about the community. It is a great way to come together as a whole."

Several local businesses will have tables set up at National Night Out. Pony rides and a bounce house will be featured, along with food trucks, music, Star Wars characters, face painting and more. Local fire departments will be on-site, and K-9 demonstrations will be offered as well. The festivities will conclude with fireworks at 9 p.m.

LIV-ETown will operate an entertainment stage, hosted by Ross Productions and sponsored by the Elizabethtown Optimist Club, The Greg Grogan and Kate Storm Team and John Carl Auction Co. Grant Bryan will headline the entertainment, with additional music by DJ Ross Productions and performances by E-Dance Center.

Except for food purchases, all activities at National Night Out are offered free of charge.

"Events like this are an enormous undertaking. So many individuals, organizations and businesses have come together to make it possible for the community to enjoy," said Tony Gibble of LIV-ETown. "A huge thank you goes out to everyone involved whether donating their efforts, fundraising or just being a part of it."

Held annually on the first Tuesday in August, National Night Out began in 1984 as a way to bring police and community members together. The first year, 2.5 million people across 400 communities in 23 states participated in the event. Over the years, the celebration has grown to encompass 38 million people in 17,000 communities throughout the United States.

"People tend to talk negatively about the police and feel as though we don't do enough or don't do things that they feel we should," said officer Mike Shetter. "This is a good opportunity for them to ask questions and realize just how much we do handle within the community. It's also a great way to show kids that we are here to help and aren't the big and scary officers they may see on TV or in movies."

Limited on-site parking will be available for National Night Out, but people are encouraged to park at Elizabethtown Brethren in Christ Church, 996 E. High St., and use a free shuttle to and from the event.