Columbia holds kickoff for National Night Out

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — Columbia is hosting a kickoff event for National Night Out.

The City of Columbia Community Development Department, the Columbia Police Department, and Columbia Council of Neighborhoods are hosting their 5th annual event Saturday at Finlay Park.

The theme off this year’s gathering is “Famously Safe,” a play on Columbia’s official tag line of “Famously Hot.”

There are plans for live music, carnival rides and food vendors, along with a variety of public safety displays. The police department is also bringing SWAT vehicles and a K-9 unit. There will also be an attempt to break the Guinness Book of World Records mark for the largest Zumba class.

Speakers at the event include Police Chief Randy Scott and several members of the Columbia City Council.