SOUTH RIVER – The borough’s 12th annual National Night Out was all about community.
Denny Stadium in South River filled with vendors and visitors as those in attendance were able to enjoy activities that included food trucks, live music, prize giveaways and games.
The dunk tank proved to be a crowd favorite as eager children lined up to toss the ball at the target. An adjacent bouncy house was surrounded by activity as kids played both inside and out.
In addition, groups of families and friends walked and talked as they stopped at various vendors to enjoy popcorn, burritos, sandwiches, cold drinks, ice cream and cupcakes.
The community gathering also featured a variety of local organizations and outreaches that shared information on meaningful causes and upcoming events.
Members of the South River Police Department and South River Fire Department also mingled amongst residents and provided demonstrations of their emergency vehicles.
National Night Out provided an opportunity for South River residents to share conversations with neighbors and law enforcement while enjoying a night of fun.
Since 1984, National Night Out has been celebrated annually across the U.S. and is sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch.
The initiative first began with neighbors sitting outside their homes with a porch light turned on. The premise was that members of a community could familiarize themselves with those around them.
Today, the nation-wide event aims to build neighborhood comradery by creating a friendly environment for communities to connect.