Dysart City Park pictured Tuesday, Aug. 18, during the 3rd annual Dysart Night Out. The rescheduled event organized by the Dysart Police Department and Dysart Chamber of Commerce saw record turnout, according to organizers. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

DYSART, IOWA – Dysart Night Out had its biggest year yet Tuesday, Aug. 18, as a record crowd gathered at Dysart City Park for the 3rd annual event. From bouncy houses and face painting to Touch-a-Truck and catching up with neighbors, Dysart was the place to be that evening.

Hosted by the Dysart Police Department and Dysart Chamber of Commerce, the free event brought families, first responders, local businesses, and organizations together for a fun summer night. Originally scheduled for Tuesday, Aug. 4, the event was rescheduled due to stormy weather.

Kids stayed busy this year with inflatables, balloon twisting, face painting, a dunk tank, and other activities, while families checked out emergency vehicles, tractors, and equipment. The evening also included music, free food, giveaways, and plenty of time to visit with those in attendance.

“This is one of those nights that just feels like Dysart,” Dysart Chamber of Commerce President Nicole Taylor said. “You see kids running around having fun, people stopping to visit, and so many different parts of our community coming together. That’s what makes the night so special.”

Officer Jeremy Stenda of the Dysart Police Department said the event is something he looks forward to each year.

Law enforcement and first responder vehicles were on display Tuesday evening for participants to check out. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

“It’s a fun night for us, too,” Stenda added. “We get to visit with people, see a lot of familiar faces, and spend time with the community in a different way. We appreciate everyone who came out.”

Dysart Night Out was made possible through grant funding and the support of local businesses, organizations, community partners, and volunteers.

“We’re incredibly thankful for everyone who helped make it happen,” Taylor said. “It takes a lot of people working behind the scenes to offer an event like this completely free to our community.”

2026 Dysart Night Out organizers and exhibitors gather for a group photo Tuesday, Aug. 18, in City Park. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO