Saturday evening, from 4-10 p.m. the overcast weather did not stop the first ever “Party in the Park” for the Valparaiso Firefighters. In the Central Park Plaza, firefighters, their friends and family, and anyone from the community was invited to take part in the food and many types of free entertainment, which included a DJ, Inflatable Bounce-Arounds, a balloon artist, and pace-painting for the kids.
There were fire trucks on display, and food tents as well. Kelsey’s Steakhouse was serving food, and Duffy’s set up a beer tent. Kernel and Kones and Sticky Fingers opened up a tent for the event as well.
In addition to the food and entertainment, there were opportunities to donate money to the fire department so they can give to local charities and buy fire department t-shirts to support the Valparaiso firefighters. Fire trucks were parked around the plaza on display. Also, local booths were selling their products and giving 10% of their sales to the fire department.
“We are out today support the local fire department and see the trucks: we have a 4 year old that has been in love with fire he has passed his love of fire trucks on to his younger brother,” said Emeryck Marvel’s dad as he watched his 9 month old “drive” in the seat of a real fire truck.
John Daley, event coordinator, passed out neon necklaces and fire truck hats to kids. He said, “We hold different kinds of sales throughout the year to raise money for charities. This event is a way to thank the community for their donations to us and their support of local charities.”
Firefighters all wore their t-shirts that featured pink letters in support of breast cancer awareness. “We wear them on duty as well, to raise awareness for breast cancer,” Daley said.
Kids, teens and adults alike enjoyed the party immensely. The Valparaiso Firefighters hope that it will become an annual event.