HILLSBORO, Ohio – Families from across Highland County are invited to attend National Night Out 2026, a free community event designed to bring residents together with local law enforcement officers, first responders, and community organizations for an evening of fun, education, and relationship-building.
The event will be held on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. @ 39 Willettsville Pike (Highland County School District). Admission is completely free, and community members of all ages are encouraged to attend.
National Night Out is an annual nationwide campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie to make communities safer and stronger. Highland County's event will provide residents with an opportunity to meet the men and women who serve and protect their communities while enjoying a variety of interactive activities and demonstrations.
This year's event will feature:
K-9 demonstrations
Drone demonstrations
Police cruiser tours
A Nerf Gun Pin Shoot hosted by the Greenfield Police Department
A cornhole tournament hosted by the Highland County Jail
Interactive exhibits and displays
Opportunities to meet local law enforcement officers, firefighters, EMS personnel, and community service agencies
Family-friendly activities and giveaways throughout the evening
Several community organizations have already committed to participating in the event, including all local Highland County law enforcement agencies and first responders, along with Highland County Child Protective Services, the Highland County Board of Elections, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), the Ohio State Highway Patrol, the Highland County Dog Pound, and Southern Hills Community Bank.
Organizers say the event's purpose goes beyond fun and entertainment.
"National Night Out is about bringing our community together," said Ashley Sanders, Director of the Highland County Victim Witness Program. "It's an opportunity for residents to meet their local first responders in a positive environment, learn about community resources, ask questions, and build relationships that strengthen public safety throughout Highland County."
Businesses, organizations, and agencies are still welcome to participate by setting up informational booths, becoming community partners, or sponsoring activities. Donations and in-kind contributions are also being accepted to help ensure the event remains completely free for all attendees.
Even organizations that cannot attend in person can still support the event by helping spread the word or connecting organizers with potential sponsors and donors.
Community members can learn more and follow event updates by visiting the official Facebook event page:
https://www.facebook.com/share/1BM7pKhadP/
For more information about participating, sponsoring, donating, or volunteering, contact:
Ashley Sanders, Director
Highland County Victim Witness Program
Highland County Prosecutor's Office
Phone: (937) 393-5872
Email: [email protected]
Organizers encourage all Highland County residents to mark their calendars and join them on August 4 for an evening dedicated to community, partnership, and fun.