LAPD Pacific Division's National Night Out

National Night Out is a yearly event where neighbors reconnect with one another and give crime and drugs a going away party, and will celebrate its 30th anniversary this year.

The introduction of National Night Out, “America’s Night Out Against Crime”, in 1984 began an effort to promote involvement in crime prevention activities, police-community partnerships, neighborhood camaraderie and send a message to criminals letting them know that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back. NATW’s National Night Out program culminates annually, on the first Tuesday of August.

Today, National Night Out involves over 37 million people and 15,000 communities from all 50 states, U.S. Territories, Canadian cities, and military bases worldwide.

The traditional “lights on” campaign and symbolic front porch vigils turned into a celebration across America with various events and activities including, but not limited to, block parties, cookouts, parades, visits from emergency personnel, rallies and marches, exhibits, youth events, safety demonstrations and seminars, in effort to heighten awareness and enhance community relations.

LAPD Pacific Division will host National Night Out at the Mar Vista Recreation Center, 11430 Woodbine St. Mar Vista from 6-9 p.m.

Pacific Division covers several areas including Mar Vista and Venice and this year officers and the community will take part in a softball game. In addition, The Mar Vista Neighborhood Association is donating $200 worth of small key chain LED flashlights.