Behind the Badge: Celebrating 30 years of Sheriff's Family Day

By Sheriff Ian Parkinson · Wed Sep 02 2026

One of my favorite days on the calendar has always been Sheriff's Family Day. It's a day when we open our doors to the community, invite everyone to come out and have some fun, and give people a chance to see firsthand what the Sheriff's Office is all about.

This year is special. It marks the 30th anniversary of Sheriff's Family Day, an event proudly sponsored by the Sheriff's Advisory Foundation since 1996. What began under then-Sheriff Ed Williams as "Sheriff's Family Day at the Ranch" has grown into one of our longest-running community traditions. While the name has changed over the years, the purpose remains the same. Bringing families and law enforcement together in a relaxed, welcoming environment where everyone can get a sneak peek behind the badge.

As law enforcement officers, much of what we do happens during difficult moments in people's lives. They see us responding to emergencies, investigating crimes, or helping during disasters. Sheriff's Family Day gives us the opportunity to meet under much different circumstances. It's a chance to talk, laugh, answer questions, and show the community the people behind the uniforms. A behind-the-scenes look at what we do and the people who do it.

There truly is something for everyone.

You'll find displays and demonstrations from many of the specialized teams that serve San Luis Obispo County every day. Meet members of our Sheriff's Posse and Search and Rescue Team, climb aboard our SWAT vehicle, and see the equipment our deputies use to keep our communities safe. You'll also have the opportunity to check out emergency response helicopters, watch demonstrations featuring the Jaws of Life and our Bomb Task Force, and, of course, meet some of our four-legged deputies. Don't miss the chance to shake the paw of one of our Sheriff's K-9s. They're always among the most popular attractions.

For our younger visitors, we'll have plenty of free activities and giveaways, including hot dogs, T-shirts, junior sheriff badge stickers, coloring books, and bike raffle tickets for children up to age 12. And, as I like to remind everyone, there will actually be two sheriffs at the event. Your Sheriff and my famous movie partner, Sheriff Woody from Toy Story. I have to admit, he may be just a little more popular than I am.

Best of all, everything is free. And we like free.

One of the most rewarding parts of Sheriff's Family Day is seeing people discover that the men and women behind the badge are their neighbors, coaches, volunteers, and friends. Children climb into patrol vehicles with wide-eyed excitement. Parents ask deputies questions they've always been curious about. Volunteers explain how they assist during emergencies. By the end of the day, people leave with a better understanding of the many ways we work together to keep San Luis Obispo County a safe place to live, work, and raise a family.

None of this would be possible without the Sheriff's Advisory Foundation. This outstanding local nonprofit has partnered with the Sheriff's Office for decades, providing funding and support not only for Sheriff's Family Day, but also for important public safety programs throughout our county. Their generosity has helped purchase critical law enforcement equipment, support our K-9 Unit, and enhance programs that benefit both the Sheriff's Office and other law enforcement agencies throughout San Luis Obispo County. Their commitment has made a lasting difference, and we are grateful for everything they do.

I hope you'll join us for this special 30th anniversary celebration. Sheriff's Family Day will be held on Saturday, September 19, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Madonna Inn Meadows in San Luis Obispo. Whether you've attended every year or have never been before, I encourage you to come out, meet the men and women who proudly serve this county, and spend a few hours with us. We can't wait to see you there.