Night Out at the Santa Cruz Wharf Unites Generations

A Community Celebration at the Santa Cruz Wharf

Families and community members gathered near the end of the Santa Cruz Wharf on a warm Tuesday evening for a unique event that brought together local law enforcement, firefighters, and residents. The National Night Out celebration, which took place for the first time on the wharf, featured a variety of activities, including a doughnut-eating contest, free ice cream, and an opportunity to explore new and classic police and fire vehicles.

Santa Cruz Police Chief Bernie Escalante was among the first to take part in the festivities. After a long shift at Marini’s Candies, where he scooped ice cream for a long line of eager children and adults, he found time to participate in the event’s highlight: a hands-free doughnut-eating contest against Santa Cruz Fire Chief Rob Oatey. The competition was intense, with both chiefs showing determination until the final moment. In the end, Escalante emerged victorious, marking a fun and memorable moment for attendees.

National Night Out is an annual event that has been celebrated since 1984. Held on the first Tuesday in August, it provides a chance for police and fire departments across the country to connect with their communities in a friendly and engaging way. This year, the event took place across Santa Cruz County, from Scotts Valley to Watsonville, with the Santa Cruz Wharf serving as a central location for the celebration.

Escalante expressed his enthusiasm for the event, noting that it gives him and his department a valuable opportunity to build relationships with community members and reconnect with old friends and neighbors. He also highlighted the significance of hosting the event on the wharf, especially after its recent renovations. “It feels even a little more special this year,” he said, emphasizing the importance of bringing people to the area to support local businesses.

The city of Santa Cruz also used the occasion to showcase a new addition to the Santa Cruz Fire Department (SCFD): a Type 6 wildfire truck. This off-road vehicle, known as a bush truck, is designed to reach wildland areas that traditional fire apparatus cannot access. Oatey explained that the truck was acquired through a federal earmark from Congressman Panetta’s office and is still not officially in service. However, it is expected to play a crucial role in supporting California’s mutual aid system by providing faster access to remote locations.

At the event, visitors had the chance to view a range of police vehicles, including the department’s pristine 1973 Chevy Impala, which was donated by Bruce Canepa of Canepa Automotive in Scotts Valley. Santa Cruz Communications Manager Erika Smart and Police Lieutenant Wes Morey welcomed newcomers to the event, highlighting the excitement around the motorcycles, ATVs, and other vehicles on display.

For many families, the event was a chance to enjoy free treats and engage with local first responders. Kevin Farmer, a Santa Cruz resident, attended with his son and shared his experience. “This is the first one I’ve been to,” he said. “The kids love the free ice cream and the swag from the different departments. And of course, hopping in the cars and hopping on the motorcycle and the quad.”

Crissy Hansen, who attended the event with her two children, noted that she has participated in previous National Night Out events but appreciates the changing venues each year. “You can’t beat the wharf,” she said. “My daughter is loving the dunk tank. She keeps standing in line for that.”

In addition to the police and fire department displays, the event featured tables from various community organizations, including Ecology Action. Representatives from the city’s Economic Development department also engaged with residents, asking them to contribute ideas for the wharf’s new gateway signage as part of the Wharf Master Plan.

Later in the evening, the chiefs of police and fire faced off in the doughnut-eating showdown, which became one of the most anticipated moments of the night. Both Escalante and Oatey demonstrated impressive determination as they ate the suspended doughnuts without using their hands. Despite their efforts, Escalante ultimately won the competition, adding to the excitement of the evening.

The event provided a meaningful opportunity for the community to come together, celebrate public safety, and support local businesses. As the sun set over the wharf, the spirit of camaraderie and fun continued to shine through the activities and interactions of all who attended.