Dedham Prepares For National Night Out

DEDHAM, MA - Dedham is participating in a public safety event known as “National Night Out” for the 11th time, with community-building activities during the first week of August.

National Night Out is an opportunity for local law enforcement and citizens to come together for the creation of safer neighborhoods by encouraging community participation and raising awareness about public safety. The Dedham Police have partnered with a number of civic groups in Dedham to support this initiative and establish community relationships.

Several festivities are planned throughout the town from August 1 to August 10, 2022. Citizens are also asked to keep their lights on until 11:00 p.m. on Tuesday, August 2, 2022 to visually represent Dedham’s commitment to shining a light for safer neighborhoods. The following civic groups are participating in the planned events: Mother Brook Community Group, Manor Neighborhood Association, Oakdale Square Alliance, Riverdale Neighborhood Association, and the Dedham Coalition for Equity and Inclusion.

“We are very excited to participate in National Night Out for an 11th year," said Dedham Police Chief Michael d’Entremont. "We are thankful to be able to join community members for summertime fun that also promotes positive police and community connections.

"The participation from the community has been great once again, and we continue to evolve the schedule to include new and exciting events," he continued. "As in past years, we are partnering with several different civic groups, town departments, and local businesses to reach the greatest number of citizens. We are hoping to build on the success and positive energy generated by the various groups to make Dedham’s neighborhoods safer and welcoming for all.”

Select Board Member James MacDonald added: “As Chairperson for the Select Board, I will be delighted to issue a proclamation, along with my fellow Select Board members, that officially proclaims Tuesday, August 2, 2022 as National Night Out in Dedham. This program represents a way to strengthen police-community partnerships and celebrate all the great work done by law enforcement. Every year, this event gains in popularity and brings the community together in a special way.”

Below is the National Night Out 2022 schedule of events. Most events listed below are designed to be kid-friendly and family-oriented, and all events are free and open to anyone interested in supporting this public safety initiative.

MONDAY, August 1 – Oakdale Square Ice Cream Social

TIME: 6:30– 7:30 p.m.

LOCATION: Oakdale Square Common, Oakdale Square

DESCRIPTION: Come join friends and neighbors to socialize and enjoy ice cream on the Common in Oakdale Square. Enjoy FREE ice cream sundaes with a variety of toppings! Meet the Norfolk County Sheriff’s comfort dog, “Eddie.” Plus, kids’ activities, outdoor games, entertainment, and fun connecting with the community.

TUESDAY, August 2 - Children’s Story Time (public safety theme)

TIME: 3:00 p.m.

LOCATION: Dedham Public Library, 43 Church St.

DESCRIPTION: Join the Dedham Public Library and Blue Bunny Books & Toys staff along with Dedham police officers to hear fun and informative stories that focus on safety and teach children valuable lessons. The staff will provide materials for a children’s craft they can take home.

TUESDAY, August 2 – Lawn Games at the Endicott Estate

TIME: 6–8 p.m.

LOCATION: Endicott Estate, 656 East St.

DESCRIPTION: Join the Dedham Coalition for Equity and Inclusion for a fun evening of lawn games on the grounds of the Estate. All ages are welcome. Games will include Cornhole, Giant Jenga, Spike Ball and Ladder Ball!

TUESDAY, August 2 – Outdoor Movie Night at Condon Park: Featuring the adventure/fantasy animated movie “Stellaluna."

TIME: 6:30 p.m. (canoe rides on Mother Brook) 7-8 p.m. (hot dogs and popcorn) and feature film from 8–9p.m .

LOCATION: Condon Park, 184 Bussey Street, Dedham, MA

DESCRIPTION: Bring a chair, blanket, family, friends, and a flashlight to guide your way to the Park for a family-friendly movie (bug spray is also recommended). Popcorn, snacks, and drinks will be available. Come see some movie magic under the stars. Arrive early and explore Mother Brook while enjoying a canoe ride sponsored by the Dedham Parks and Recreation Department in partnership with LL Bean.

WEDNESDAY, August - Flashlight Manor Neighborhood Walk

TIME: 7:30-8:30 p.m.

LOCATION: Manor Neighborhood - Meet at Terri’s Market, 12 Louise Road, Dedham, MA

DESCRIPTION: Enjoy an illuminating stroll with friends and family around the neighborhood. The walk will begin at Terri’s Market and conclude at the new Trenton Road playground where light refreshments including frozen treats will be available.

THURSDAY, August 10 – Riverdale Neighborhood Hot Dog and Ice Cream Social

TIME: 6- 7:30 p.m.

LOCATION: Riverdale School field and playground, 143 Needham Street, Dedham, MA

DESCRIPTION: Join friends and neighbors for a night off from cooking with outdoor games for kids of all ages, hot dogs, and ice cream! The Norfolk County Sheriff’s Command Post will be available for exploring. Come out and say hello to your neighbors! All ages are welcome.