National Night Out — a community-building campaign designed to foster better relationships between first responders and the people they serve while increasing overall neighborhood safety — is Tuesday.
People have been locking their doors, turning on their porch lights, and spending an evening outside with their neighbors since the National Association of Town Watch introduced it in 1984.
Events are being held by police departments throughout Northern Virginia in support of the effort.
“National Night Out is a fun evening for all. Our agency believes in community policing and National Night Out gives us a chance to celebrate our success in working together to reduce crime and improve the quality of life throughout our city,” Alexandria Police Chief Don Hayes said in a news release.
“I look forward to seeing everyone in the community.”
Here are the events happening across NoVA area.
Alexandria
There are a whopping 37 events planned throughout Alexandria. From block parties and barbecues to picnics and raffles, see the list online.
Arlington County
Nearly a dozen Arlington County neighborhoods have events planned. It includes block parties, cook outs, and ice cream socials. Get more information information online.
Fairfax County
All of Fairfax County’s district police stations are participating in National Night Out. Special events, anticrime rallies, and fun stuff for the kids are planned. Get more information online.
Loudoun County
The Leesburg Police Department is hosting activities at the Douglass Community Center from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Get the details online.
Lovettsville is participating in National Night Out all day long at town hall. Get more information online.
There will be food and fun at the Middleburg Community Center ballfield from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
The Purcellville Police Department will visit neighborhoods throughout the town from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
South Riding residents will be able to enjoy an evening with the Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office at the Town Green from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Winchester Police invite the community to join them in Old Town Winchester for hot dogs, drinks, music, and a K-9 demonstration from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Prince William County
The Prince William County Police Department will take part in events throughout the county. The community can meet officers at motorcade stops and join officer for refreshments.
Feature image courtesy Arlington County Police Department/Facebook
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