FAIRMONT — Fairmont’s National Night Out will be held this evening, from 6-8 p.m. at Gomsrud Park.

Founded in 1984, National Night Out offers an opportunity for communities to promote fellowship and safety. Fairmont Police Chief Mike Hunter shared the details of the evening, including some new aspects.

“We use it as an evening to thank our community for all their support over the years,” he said. “This will be our second year of getting it back and established here in Fairmont.”

Hunter said that prior to the Night Out, there will be special fishing outing.

“We start at 4 p.m., when we’ll have a Cops and Bobbers fishing event for the elementary age kids along the channel,” he said. “We’re just inviting the young kids to come fish with the cops and we’ve got some prizes to give away. Anyone’s welcome to show up and if you don’t have any equipment, we’ll have some there to use. That’s hosted by the Fairmont Police Officer’s Association and is organized by officers Buhmann and Bleess.

“When that event winds up at 6 p.m., we kick off the Fairmont Night Out, where we invite the public to join us for a meal at Gomsrud Park. We’ve got some of our officers doing some light grilling, and you’ll also have the opportunity to speak with any of our officers. Also, we have several new officers, so people in the community will get a chance to meet them.”

Speaking of meeting officers, one is sure to be a hit. Officer Tietje will be around with his K9, Titus. Hunter says the duo will offer a demonstration a little later in the evening.

“We’ll also have our yearly challenge for the Fairmont Fire Department,” Hunter said. “We’re taking them on in the world’s greatest beanbag tournament again this year. Last year, officer Beletti and officer Christenson defeated the best that the fire department had to offer, so we’re giving them an opportunity for a rematch.”

Hunter noted that once again there will be plenty of fun vehicles for children to check out, from a fire truck to a squad car and an MRAP vehicle from the regional SWAT team.

“We just appreciate the opportunity to informally thank our community and give them the opportunity to ask us whatever questions they may have,” Hunter said. “Not only do we protect and serve, but [tonight] we’ll also serve you dinner.”