Speaking Spirit Ministries says Dorey Park’s National Night Out will be the largest of its kind in Virginia

HENRICO COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) -- Ahead of the 42nd Annual National Night Out on Tuesday, 8News spoke with organizers to learn about the community event at Henrico County's Dorey Park, which will be the largest of its kind in the Commonwealth.

In the morning on Tuesday, July 29, 8News Anchors Delaney Hall and Autumn Childress spoke with Lynette Hargrove, community outreach director with Speaking Spirit Ministries, one of the organizing groups behind the National Night Out event at Dorey Park in Henrico County.

As for what attendees can expect, Hargrove said this year's event will be larger and full of festivities for all to enjoy.

"It's going to be bigger, it's going to be better, even better than last year, where we drew a crowd of 7,000 attendees," Hargove said. "This year, we're expecting 10,000."

Hargrove said the event will include new attractions and carnival rides.

"We're going to have all kinds of carnival rides, over 10 different carnival rides that children and families can enjoy, over 10 different types of inflatables, obstacle courses, car shows, petting zoos, a 90-foot hot air balloon," Hargove said.

In addition, Hargrove said there will be over 70 vendors and over 15 different food vendors.

The event will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 5, at Dorey Park, located at 2999 Darbytown Rd in Henrico County.

Hargrove explained that National Night Out is an annual event intended to bridge relationships between law enforcement and community members, and Speaking Spirit Ministries takes that a step further, providing resources and education to community members.

She added that attendees should bring water to stay hydrated and a lawn chair to watch performances.

The event is free to attend. For more information, visit the county's website.