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National Night Out

Join your community and join forces with National Night Out - meet your neighbors, enjoy activities, and have a fun night out!

Tuesday

August 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEFirst Tuesday in August

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYViolence Prevention

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Gather your family and friends and get ready to celebrate National Night Out on the first Tuesday in August! This day has been celebrated for over 35 years, with a mission to strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships. It's a great way to connect with neighbors and create a sense of safety and security in your local community. There are many fun activities you can do during the night, from lighting candles in your front yard to hosting barbecues or block parties. So go ahead and join the festivities this year – it's sure to be an unforgettable experience!

TIMELINE

National Night Out Timeline

Inception of National Night Out

Matt Peskin of the National Association of Town Watch introduces National Night Out to promote community involvement in crime prevention.

Adopts First Tuesday in August

National Night Out solidifies the tradition of being observed on the first Tuesday in August each year.

National Expansion

All 50 United States participate in National Night Out, signifying national acceptance and recognition of the event.

International Inclusion

National Night Out expands beyond the United States, reaching military bases overseas, Canada and Puerto Rico.

Reflective Trailer Debut

The National Association of Town Watch releases a reflective trailer visiting four cities to celebrate the event's 30th anniversary.

Pandemic Adaptation

Communities find innovative ways to celebrate National Night Out amid COVID-19 restrictions, through virtual meetups and socially distanced activities.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Night Out

Host a block party

Organize your neighbors to host a block party. Have everyone bring a dish or snack to share and some lawn chairs or blankets to sit on. Invite the local police and fire departments to join in the celebration.

ORGANIZE

Organize a community picnic

Host a community picnic on National Night Out. Invite everyone to bring their own food and drinks and gather together in the park to enjoy each other's company.

HOLD

Hold a candlelight vigil

Organize a candlelight vigil in honor of National Night Out. Have participants carry candles and march together in solidarity, while chanting slogans that promote peace and safety in the community.

PUT

Put on a concert

Hold a free concert featuring local bands and solo artists. Ask local businesses to sponsor the event or donate items for prizes for a raffle.

ORGANIZE

Organize a movie night

Set up an outdoor movie night in your neighborhood park. Ask everyone to bring their own chairs, blankets, snacks, and drinks and have an enjoyable evening watching movies under the stars.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love National Night Out

It's Fun For Everyone

At its heart, National Night Out is all about having fun and celebrating the joy of living in a safe neighborhood. There's no limit to what kind of activities you can have - from family picnics in the park to barbecues with friends - so don't be shy and come out to join the fun!

It Promotes Neighborhood Camaraderie

National Night Out is a great way to get to know your neighbors and create a sense of community in your neighborhood. By participating, you can share stories, invite others over for cookouts or games, and enjoy time spent together outside.

It Supports Local Law Enforcement

In addition to bringing people together, National Night Out helps to raise awareness about crime prevention. Participating communities are encouraged to take part in activities that promote safety and security, such as neighborhood watches and block parties.

Related holidays

National Crime Prevention Week

Join the fight against crime during National Crime Prevention Week! Learn how to protect yourself and your community with helpful tips and resources.

National Crime Prevention Month

Join us in raising awareness and taking action during National Crime Prevention Month - together we can make our communities safer!

National Good Neighbor Day

Show your appreciation for your neighbors this National Good Neighbor Day by baking them a treat, sending them a card, or simply saying hello!

National Neighbor Day

Show your neighbors some love this National Neighbor Day! Reach out with a friendly conversation, a homemade gift, or an offer to help with their projects.

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