NORTH STAFFORD, Va. — An annual National Night Out celebration in North Stafford will be the biggest yet.
Starting at 6 p.m. Tuesday, 69 businesses and organizations – including fire departments, the county’s sheriff’s office, retailers, and volunteers organizations like the Stafford County SPCA, will set up booths and tables at Stafford Marketplace on Va. 610.
They’ll not only welcome area residents for music, demonstrations, and games, they’ll also welcome Virginia Secretary of Public Safety Marla Decker.
Community participation in this year’s event will be much larger than last year’s.
“Each year we have grown by a few extra, but this year we exploded! In 2011, we were at 43 participants and this year, as noted, 69!” stated organizer Nick Zumwalt in an email.
This is the largest National Night Out Celebration in Stafford County, but several other smaller celebrations were held in neighborhoods throughout the county and are encouraged by Sheriff Charles Jett.
No large celebrations are planned for residents in Prince William County, but the celebration does not go unnoticed as the county’s police department has asked residents to turn on their porch lights, lock their doors, and spend the evening outside among neighbors.
Dumfries will celebrate National Night Out a day late, and encouraged children to participate in a poster contest. The posters will be judged Wednesday at the town’s community center.
Stafford celebration’s history
Event organizer Patricia Copeland said her Aquia Harbour Volunteer Rescue Squad began participating in the “night out” celebration in 2002. It was held at Stafford Marketplace for the first time in 2006.
“Last year we had over a 1,000 people join us. I am hoping for an awesome turnout this year,” said Copeland.
Copeland said Stafford’s “night out” event has won an award every year since 2008.
National Night Out was first celebrated nationwide in 1984 as a way to build communities and raise awareness about drug and crime prevention.
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A Night on the Riviera
Experience a magical evening at the Embassy of France with A Night on the Riviera, an event that will transport you to the glamour of the French Riviera while celebrating the vibrant spirit of Mardi Gras!
Indulge in an exquisite selection of French wines and champagne, paired with the finest French cuisine prepared by the talented Chef of the Embassy of France. Additionally, Chef Hugh Cossard will be carving ham live, ensuring freshness and exceptional flavor. Don’t miss out on the authentic French crêpes, made to order and sure to transport you straight to the streets of Nice.
For those seeking an extra touch of exclusivity, the VIP experience includes unlimited champagne, adding an extra layer of sophistication to this festive celebration.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
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