National Night Out will return to Des Moines on Tuesday, Aug. 4, with neighborhood gatherings designed to bring residents together and strengthen connections with police, firefighters and city officials.
The annual event encourages residents to host block parties, barbecues, ice cream socials or other neighborhood gatherings as part of a nationwide effort to build safer and more connected communities.
According to the Des Moines Police Department, National Night Out is intended to strengthen police community partnerships by creating opportunities for neighbors to meet one another and engage with local first responders and city leaders.
The police department said registration for neighborhood events is free and allows the city to coordinate visits from police officers, firefighters and city staff during the evening.
“Every gathering helps build a safer and more connected community,” the department said in announcing this year’s event.
The department is encouraging residents planning a neighborhood event to register in advance here. Officials said gatherings can range from organized block parties and barbecues to simple get togethers with lawn chairs in front yards.
National Night Out events are held annually in communities across the country and focus on fostering neighborhood engagement and partnerships between residents and public safety agencies.
