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The city of Alabaster celebrated National Night Out on Thursday, Oct. 3 from 6-8 p.m. at the AmStar Cinemas parking lot at 820 Colonial Promenade Parkway, Alabaster, AL 35007. (For the Reporter/Neal Wagner)

By NOAH WORTHAM | Managing Editor

ALABASTER – Bright lights gleamed across the Alabaster skyline as children darted from booth to booth collecting candy and interacting with officers during Alabaster’s National Night Out.

The city of Alabaster celebrated National Night Out on Thursday, Oct. 3 from 6-8 p.m. at the AmStar Cinemas parking lot at 820 Colonial Promenade Parkway, Alabaster, AL 35007.

“National Night Out was a tremendous success this year,” said Cpl. John St. Pierre with the Alabaster Police Department. “We had a great turnout of over 600 people, and it was amazing to see so many families and community members come together. The atmosphere was lively, and the energy was contagious. It’s always rewarding to see the community come out in such large numbers to support this event.”

Each year, National Night Out serves as a campaign that enhances the relationship between first responders and the communities they serve.

“It’s a night where we showcase our roles as law enforcement and first responders and connect on a personal level,” St. Pierre said.

Additionally, St. Pierre said the engagement that took place during National Night Out also encouraged trust and transparency which is essential for the community’s safety.

“For many, it’s an opportunity to see officers and first responders as approachable and part of the community, which is crucial in building long-term partnerships,” St. Pierre said.

During the event, there were a variety of activities for families in attendance to enjoy, including three large inflatables and various food trucks. Additionally, attendees were able to get a hands-on look at a variety of vehicles utilized by the city’s first responders.

“Families had an absolute blast at the event, enjoying the activities, games and demonstrations,” St. Pierre said. “From families getting to see inside a police Tahoe, the SCSO helicopter, APD High Water Rescue Vehicle, AFD fire truck, APD drones or ambulance to parents chatting with officers and everyone enjoying the food and entertainment, there was something for all ages. The smiles on the kids’ faces and the interactions we saw made it clear that families were not just having a good time but were genuinely enjoying every moment of the evening.”

In addition to the Alabaster Police Department and Shelby County Sheriff’s Office, various organizations were present at the event to socialize, spread awareness and provide free information for residents.

For St. Pierre, the biggest takeaway from the night was the sense of unity and connection that is shared between Alabaster community members and first responders.

“Events like these remind us why we do what we do: to protect, serve and support a community that feels connected and empowered,” he said. “The conversations and interactions we had were genuine and meaningful, and it’s those moments that make a lasting impact.”

St. Pierre expressed his gratitude to those who helped make this year’s edition of National Night Out a success.

“From the dedicated volunteers, generous sponsors and enthusiastic vendors, to the officers and first responders who spent their time engaging with our residents, your contributions were invaluable,” he said. “It’s truly a team effort, and without your support and participation, we couldn’t have created such a positive and memorable event.”

Now with the 2024 installment of National Night Out complete, the Alabaster Police Department is already turning its attention to planning for next year’s festivities.

“We’re already looking forward to next year and continuing to strengthen our bond with the Alabaster community,” St. Pierre said.

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