By 
National Night Out drew a big crowd to Stokes-Thomas Lake City Park on Lake Kampeska Tuesday, August 4, for an evening of fun, games and refreshments.
Kids of all ages, parents and grandparents enjoyed the annual event on a cool, pleasant evening, a welcome break from the high temperatures of late.
National Night Out is held in communities across the country on the first Tuesday in August to strengthen community ties between residents and law enforcement, promote safety awareness, and celebrate neighborhood camaraderie, but mostly to have fun. All local law enforcement agencies and first responders banded together helped make the event a success.
This was the first year Watertown’s National Night Out was held at Lake Kampeska. In previous years, the event has been at the Watertown Police Department, the Codington County Courthouse lawn and in Downtown Watertown.
Tina Antonsen buckles up Kollyns Hildemann of Mobridge for a trip around the park. Kollyns and her brother were with Grandma for the event.
Sophia Koeppe tries on a police vest.
Codington County Sheriff Brad Howell captures a moment with a photo.
Riggin Kenyon, 7, gets her face painted by Grace Remmers.
Attendees enjoy refreshments in a shelter.
Families flock to the park for National Night Out.
Watertown Fire Rescue demonstrates a ladder truck.
Easton Sheehan, 2 1/2, makes himself comfortable in the driver’s seat of a police vehicle.
Community Service Officer Ashley Johnson waits for people who want to sit in a police cruiser.
Nine-year-old Callie Trava tries her luck in the Prize Drop game.
Brooks Hegg gets the speed of his fastball checked by his father, Sgt. Matt Hegg.
Children enjoyed the two bounce houses at National Night Out.
Watertown Asst. Police Chief Ryan Remmers waits for anyone who wants ice cream.
