SANTA MONICA—The city of Santa Monica has invited all residents to attend the National Night Out event on Tuesday, August 4.
National Night Out was first held in 1984 as a “community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie,” according to the organization’s website. It is put on by the National Association of Town Watch, a nationwide, non-profit crime prevention organization. It has been held annually with the participation of over 16,500 communities across the 50 states, U.S. territories, Canadian cities, and military bases. This local event is meant to raise awareness about neighborhood safety and celebrate the relationship between the community and the Santa Monica Police Department.
The event will take place at the Santa Monica Civic Center Parking Lot from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. It is advised that guests arrive using sustainable transportation such as walking or bicycling. The Big Blue Bus will be offering a free round-trip ride. For those arriving by car, there will be parking available at the Civic Center Parking Structure across from the Public Safety Building.
The Santa Monica Police Department will be exhibiting their vehicles and equipment. There will also be free food, live music and raffles. Activities will include rock climbing and bicycle safety demonstrations.
Last year, more than 1,300 people were in attendance.
Santa Monica’s Night Out is sponsored by the Santa Monica Police Officers Association, the Art Institute of Santa Monica, Pacific Park, and the Big Blue Bus.
For more information, visit www.natw.org.
