National Night Out

What is National Night Out?


National Night Out is an annual campaign founded by the National Association of Town Watch (NATW) in the early 1980’s to celebrate the successes resulting from community partnerships between law enforcement agencies, neighborhood organizations, neighborhood watch groups, elected officials and others in helping to make their communities safer and more caring places to live, work, play and invest in. 

National Night Out is always celebrated on the first Tuesday in August.

  1. Overview
  2. Planning Your Event
  3. Register Your Event

National Night Out Overview

To celebrate National Night Out, city neighborhood organizations and watch groups host a variety of events designed to:

  1. Generate support for, and participation in, local anti-crime programs,
  2. Heighten crime and drug prevention awareness,
  3. Send a message to criminals letting them know that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back and,
  4. Strengthen neighborhood spirit.

Along with traditional displays of outdoor lights and front porch vigils, city neighborhoods have participated in a variety of events over the years that have included block parties, cook outs, visits from local police, fire department and city officials, flashlight walks, contests, and youth programs.

Participating in National Night Out is an effective, inexpensive and enjoyable program that promotes neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships in our efforts in maintaining a safe community.

If your neighborhood or apartment community does not currently have a recognized Neighborhood Watch or community group and you would be interested in starting one, contact Neighborhood Services Coordinator Antwyne U. Calloway, and he can help you take a bite out of crime!