The Lake Arthur Police Department is inviting the public to get to know area law enforcement and first responders with a night of food, music and fun during its 7th annual National Night Out.

The free, family-friendly event will be 5-8 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 5 in Lake Arthur Park.

“Join us for this awesome event and get to know your neighbor, police officers, firemen and other first responders,” Lake Arthur Police Department Administrative Assistance and local event coordinator Monica Schexnider said. “Our goal is to strengthen community relations between law enforcement and the community they serve.”

Law enforcement from area police departments, including the Jeff Davis Parish Sheriff’s Office and Louisiana State Police, along with local firemen, paramedics and other first responders from the area will participate in the event.

“First responders are your friends and not somebody to be scared of,” Schexnider said.

Activities will include bounce houses, games, face painting, train rides, free giveaways and music will be provided by a local DJ. The public can also have fun taking turns dunking local law enforcement and first responders in the dunking booth.

The fire department will do an extrication demonstration. AirMed, police cars, fire trucks and other emergency vehicles will also be on display.

Free barbecue burgers, hot dogs, pizza, cotton candy, popcorn, nachos and more will be served.

“It’s a perfect opportunity to bring the kids out for fun and have supper with us while you’re here,” Schexnider said.

Schexnider said she has been very impressed with the turnout for the last six years and is looking forward to a “bigger and better” National Night Out this year.

“I like seeing everyone in the community come together,” she said. “Everybody, including the first responders, always have a good time and enjoy themselves.”

About 600 people attend the event each year, she said.

This is the first time Police Chief Jered Thomas will be participating in the event as the town’s police chief.

“I have seen first hand the planning that goes into this night and I am humbled by the generosity of the community and volunteers who make this happen and so successful each year,” Thomas said.

The local event is part of the annual National Night Out program, a nationwide event aimed at bringing the community and first responders together to build stronger relationships, heighten crime and drug prevention awareness and to promote safety.

For more information, contact the Police Department at 337-774-2411.