What is the purpose of National Night Out?

National Night Out (NNO) is an annual community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie to make neighborhoods safer, more caring places to live. National Night Out enhances the relationship between neighbors and law enforcement while bringing back a true sense of community. Furthermore, it provides a great opportunity to bring police and neighbors together under positive circumstances.

Millions of neighbors take part in National Night Out across thousands of communities from all fifty states, U.S. territories and military bases worldwide on the first Tuesday in August. Neighborhoods host block parties, cookouts, parades, flashlight walks, safety demonstrations, youth events, visits from emergency personnel, exhibits and much more.

National Night Out is designed to: (1) Heighten crime prevention awareness; (2) Generate support and participation in local anti-crime efforts; (3) Strengthen neighborhood spirit and community policing; and (4) Send a message to criminals letting them know that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back