For many people, the first time they interact with a police officer or other first responder can be under stressful circumstances. The Northwest Regional Police Department (NWRPD) wants to change that. Since 2012, the department has held National Night Out, an initiative to introduce community helpers in a fun and relaxed way.

This year's National Night Out will be held on Tuesday, Aug. 5, from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Mount Joy Township complex, 8855 Elizabethtown Road, Elizabethtown. A rain date is scheduled for Thursday, Aug. 7.

The event will feature police cars, fire trucks with demonstrations and EMS vehicles, along with food, face painting, miniature golf, "Star Wars" characters, search-and-rescue dogs, a bounce house and music. The festivities will conclude with a fireworks display.

"This is a great opportunity to connect with your neighbors and meet local first responders in a fun and positive setting," said detective Chuck Tobias of NWRPD. "All are welcomed and encouraged to come to National Night Out."

Held annually on the first Tuesday in August, National Night Out began in 1984 to promote police and community partnerships. 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.

Along with hosting National Night Out, NWRPD holds a variety of community outreach programs throughout the year, including "Cone with a Cop," featuring ice cream and opportunities to interact with police officers.

Tobias encourages people of all ages to come to National Night Out.

"You can expect to see local businesses, learn about local first responders, meet some search-and-rescue dogs and enjoy a night of community," he said.

He emphasized, however, that people should pack their patience when arriving.

"Parking will fill up quickly," he said. "It is strongly encouraged to park in the overflow lot located at Elizabethtown Brethren in Christ Church, 996 E. High St. We will post on our Facebook page when the lot is full. We will have shuttles! Traffic will be heavy; please be patient."

To learn more about National Night Out, visit https://natw.org. To follow the Elizabethtown event, search for "Northwest Regional Police Department" on Facebook.