TORRINGTON – In the midst of the Goshen County Fair, the Torrington Police Department and area first responders are gearing up to participate in National Night Out which is an annual community-building campaign promoting police-community partnerships and safer neighborhoods. The festivities will begin at 6 p.m. at Jirdon Park on Tuesday, August 6.

“The event is really just a national focus on improving community safety through meaningful relationships with law enforcement and other first responders,” Torrington Chief of Police, Matt Johnson said. “We really enjoy being part of the event, and we host it in partnership with Torrington EMS (emergency medical services) and Torrington Volunteer Fire Department every year.”

According to the event’s website, millions of neighborhoods participate in the campaign across thousands of communities from all 50 states, US territories, and military bases worldwide on the first Tuesday in August. The site did mention, Texas and some select areas celebrate on the first Tuesday in October. 

“Neighborhoods host block parties, festivals, parades, cookouts, and various other community events, including safety demonstrations, seminars, youth events, visits from emergency personnel, exhibits, and much, much more,” the site explained. 

As for the community of Torrington, according to Johnson, the community is in for a real treat following the city council meeting which will also be held at the park. 

“This year will be a pretty simple format. The [Torrington] City Council meeting will be hosted at the picnic shelter at 6 p.m., it’s usually a pretty short agenda,” Johnson explained. 

With a special thanks to Go Goshen, WyoHelp, and Culligan, Johnson explained dinner would be provided. 

“We will be barbequing hot dogs for everyone and providing chips and a drink until the food runs out,” Johnson explained. “There will also be bounce houses, bumper balls, and water games for kids at the park. The Dale Jones Municipal Pool will also offer free admission during the event.” 

According to Johnson, vendors are welcome to set up booths during the night-out festivities. 

“Local businesses, non-profits, or pretty much anyone else can reserve a space in the park and host a booth free of charge if they would like,” Johnson concluded. 

According to the campaign website, Torrington is one of eight Wyoming towns which participate in the festivities.