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Thousands pack Dorey Park for National Night Out

8/7/2025, 6 p.m.
Thousands gathered at Dorey Park on Tuesday, Aug. 5, for the 42nd Annual National Night Out, organized by Hope Givers …
Zymeir Parker, 5, left, Tamika and James Wilson Jr. with their 5-year-old son, James Wilson III, center, and Jazmin Woodson with her 1-year-old daughter, Navy Woodson, right, interact with farm animals at the petting zoo. Photos by Julianne Tripp Hillian/Richmond Free Press

Thousands gathered at Dorey Park on Tuesday, Aug. 5, for the 42nd Annual National Night Out, organized by Hope Givers USA and Speaking Spirit Ministries. Billed by organizers as the largest National Night Out event in Virginia, the gathering drew an estimated 17,000 people as part of the nationwide initiative to strengthen relationships between law enforcement and the community. Attendees enjoyed carnival rides, a petting zoo, entertainment, a public safety showcase and other activities.

photo  Erin Carter and her daughter, Emree, learn about the bomb suit used by Henrico Police Department.
 
photo  Ron Wright and his 8-year-old daughter, Jordan, learn about VCU’s LifeEvac helicopter and emergency response operations.

photo  A team of current and former firefighters prepares a hot air balloon shaped like Tiny the Fire Dog. The balloon honors retired Henrico Deputy Fire Chief R.C. “Tiny” Dawson and pays tribute to fallen emergency personnel.
 
photo  Mariyah Martin, 6, poses for a photo with Spider-Punk during the event.