The Katy Police Department hosts National Night Out on Tuesday, Oct. 6, at Katy City Park. The free event runs from 5 to 8 p.m. with food, K-9 demos and a chance to meet the officers who patrol Katy's streets.
The park is located at 5850 Franz Road, according to the city's official notice. No registration is required.
K-9 handlers will bring department dogs Sky and Mac. Members of the Motors Unit and the Special Response Team will also be at the park with their vehicles and equipment on display, The Katy News reported.
Free hot dogs, popcorn and ice cream will be served. A balloon artist, vendor giveaways, games and community resource tables are also part of the evening.
The Katy Lions Club, a volunteer group involved in youth programs, hunger relief and health initiatives, will also be at the event.
National Night Out is a nationwide campaign that dates to 1984. Texas communities hold their events on the first Tuesday in October rather than the August date used in most other states.
Fulshear holds its own event the same night
Fulshear is also marking National Night Out on Tuesday, Oct. 6, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Fulshear City Hall, 6611 W. Cross Creek Bend Lane, according to the Katy Times. Residents there can meet Fulshear police officers and first responders, explore emergency vehicles and greet K-9 Blu and community mascot Sergeant McCann. Registered neighborhood block parties are also part of Fulshear's celebration. That event is free as well.
The Fort Bend County Sheriff's Office has encouraged neighborhoods across unincorporated Fort Bend County to organize their own block parties for the same evening. Organizers could register cookouts or gatherings with the Sheriff's Office to request a deputy visit.
Sheriff Eric Fagan said in a Sept. 1 statement reported by My Neighborhood News that "National Night Out gives us an opportunity to meet our residents where they are and continue building relationships beyond calls for service." He encouraged residents to "come together, get to know their neighbors, and spend some time with the deputies who serve them every day."
Katy's event requires no tickets or sign-ups. Gates open at 5 p.m. Tuesday at Katy City Park.
