PICKAWAY COUNTY, OH – Communities across Pickaway County came together on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, to celebrate National Night Out, a nationwide initiative designed to build stronger relationships between law enforcement and the communities they serve.
From Tarlton to Williamsport to Downtown Circleville, families turned out in large numbers to enjoy an evening of fun, food, and fellowship with first responders.
According to Pickaway County Sheriff Matthew Hafey, the Sheriff department aims to spread out the event across Pickaway County, giving everyone in the county the opportunity to go to these events.
In Tarlton, the Pickaway County Sheriff’s Office partnered with the Saltcreek-Tarlton Fire Department to host a kid-friendly celebration. The event featured a bounce house, dunk tank, and plenty of treats, thanks to community supporters. Harper’s 56 Mini Mart donated pizza, while Crosstown Creamery supplied ice cream for the kids.
In Williamsport, additional support came from Foundations for Youth, which provided funding for supplies to ensure a successful night.
“This is one of our favorite events of the year,” said a representative from the Sheriff’s Office. “It’s just relaxed, good fun with the kids—whether it’s tossing a football, playing cornhole, or just taking photos. It’s all about building those connections.”
Meanwhile, in Circleville, the Circleville Police Department hosted a large celebration at Ted Lewis Park, drawing a significant crowd. More than 500 hot dogs and an entire pallet of bottled water were handed out during the event, according to police.
Kids at Ted Lewis Park had the chance to explore emergency vehicles up close, including Circleville’s MRAP vehicle and an Air Evac helicopter, as well as vehicles from local fire and EMS departments. Box 65 was on hand grilling hot dogs, and a variety of food trucks including Kona Ice, Mega Bites, Cousin’s Maine Lobster, and Grilled Cheese Gangsters helped feed the crowd.
National Night Out is held annually on the first Tuesday in August, with the goal of strengthening police-community partnerships and fostering safer neighborhoods.
The event continues to be a highlight of the summer across Pickaway County, creating lasting memories and reinforcing the bonds between law enforcement and the people they serve.
