The Rev. Craig Blaufuss uses a megaphone to give the kids instructions and a countdown to start the Nickel Scramble during the 2024 National Night Out at West Twin Park in Webster City.

National Night Out in Webster City will return to West Twin Park this evening as once again local law enforcement and first responders reach out to the public for this annual convivial fest.

The event is from 5 to 7 p.m.

According to Webster City

Unlike last year, the event will take place only in West Twin, though Webster City Police Officer Steve Thuma mentioned that this year the splashpad at East Twin Park will be open for visitors.

The event is supported in part by local businesses and organizations who sponsor food, games and prizes so that the whole evening is free.

To that end, Kwik Star has donated three $100-gift cards that will be given away in drawings, Thuma said. You do not have to be present to win.

New this year will be the S&J Farm Petting Zoo thanks to Chelsea Gerard.

Platinum Connect is sponsoring face painting and Balloon Cera’s balloon creations.

Hy-Vee is sponsoring food. Availa Bankis sponsoring Kona Ice. Hamilton County Crime Stoppers and the Daily Freeman-Journal are sponsoring the Nickel Scramble.

The Iowa State Patrol will be back this year with its “Seatbelt Convincer.”

Want to see a fire truck, a squad car or another type of emergency vehicle up close? This is your chance.

“National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie to make our neighborhoods safer, more caring places to live,” according to the organization’s website.

“It provides a great opportunity to bring police and neighbors together under positive circumstances.”

In addition to the WCPD, the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office, Hamilton County Conservation, Webster City Fire Department, Van Diest Medical Center, Iowa State Patrol, Iowa Motor Vehicle Enforcement, and Iowa Department of Natural Resources play a role in bringing National Night Out to the county.