By Paula Pyzik Scott

Bluffton's recipe for a great National Night Out includes perfect pool weather, a DJ pumping out the tunes, plenty of games and activities, fireworks and lots and lots of hot dogs grilled by Bluffton Council members. Oh, and all of the above is provided as a free family night out thanks to the organizing efforts of the Bluffton Police Department.

On August 4, the Bluffton Community Pool was the scene for this big party, which has grown in popularity throughout the last 12 years. 

The event hosted outreach opportunities for local organizations, as well as the chance to get to know local law enforcement officers, EMS crews and volunteer firefighters.

An after-party grand finale was a fireworks display coordinated by the Bluffton Area Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by 14 local businesses. National Night Out was supported by 56 businesses, organizations and families. Sponsors are listed here.