Union County To Host National Night Out For Everyone In Cranford

CRANFORD, NJ — Union County's third annual National Night Out for Everyone is set for Tuesday, Aug. 4, from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Cranford Campus of UCNJ Union College of Union County, NJ.

The event is free and open to the public and is being presented as an inclusive, accessible and sensory-supportive community gathering.

According to the announcement, this year's event is a joint effort by the Union County Board of County Commissioners, Union County Prosecutor's Office, Children's Specialized Hospital, Union County Police Department, Union County Sheriff's Department, Cranford Police Department and UCNJ.

The county said the partners worked with accessibility experts and advocates to help make the event accommodating for different needs and sensory preferences.

Activities planned for the evening include a Bubbles Corner, a customizable Silent Disco, police canines, a Touch-a-Truck station, a dunk tank and an appearance by McGruff the Crime Dog.

Organizers also said the campus will include sensory support and calm zones with temporary tattoos, face painting, calming activity sheets, color-and-calm books, a sensory support room with fidget tools and a quiet zone with social stories.

Other attractions include an obstacle course designed for various physical abilities, a plastic can toss game, oversized plastic Jenga, Rita's Italian Ice and Dragon Popcorn.

Community resource tables are also planned from county agencies, higher education institutions, first responders and organizations including Autism New Jersey, Children's Specialized Hospital, Bridgeway, Alzheimer's NJ, Prevention Links, NAMI and Big Brothers/Big Sisters.

"True community safety starts with inclusion. Our ongoing dedication to a sensory-friendly National Night Out ensures that every resident—regardless of ability—experiences a sense of belonging, safety, and genuine connection with the law enforcement officers who serve them," says Prosecutor William Daniel.

Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek said, "National Night Out has become one of our most successful and enjoyable community events, and each year we are reminded just how meaningful it is to create a space where everyone feels welcome."

He added that the event is designed so families of all ages and abilities can take part and feel comfortable.

Cranford Police Chief Matthew Nazzaro said Cranford's tables will be folded into the county event this year, including a "dunk a cop" fundraiser for Project Home of Cranford, Dragon Popcorn donated by Venue 104 and NJ Property Experts, and a display of equipment that includes Cranford Fire Department's new rescue truck.

National Night Out is a nationwide campaign focused on police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie.

Union County said the local event is meant to connect residents with law enforcement and community resources in an environment centered on safety, access and inclusion.

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