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Since 1984, cities all across America have been participating in a National Night Out. The idea for the event was born out of the desire to connect communities and foster a deeper understanding and appreciation for the happenings in local neighborhoods. Matt, a volunteer for the Community Watch Program in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania was the first who sought to streamline neighborhood information to keep civilians and local law enforcement informed. However, before National Night Out, the National Association of Town Watch was established in 1981.
The benefit of connecting law enforcement agencies through the Town Watch became hugely apparent, and Matt knew something more could be done. “National Night Out was introduced in August of 1984 through an already-established network of law enforcement agencies, neighborhood watch groups, civic groups, state and regional crime prevention associations, and volunteers across the nation. The first annual National Night Out involved 2.5 million neighbors across 400 communities in 23 states,” according to NATW.org. Now, 43 years later, 17 thousand communities participate in National Night Out (NNO).
For a few hours in the evening, communities can expect a family-friendly event “that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie,” as posted on the City of Holland website.
The event is often celebrated with cook outs, kid friendly safety demonstrations, emergency vehicle tours, dunk tanks and other carnival games, face paint, rock climbing, seminars, music, and more. How each NNO is celebrated is up to the community; however, the focus is always the same: connect neighborhoods with their local law enforcement.
It’s an opportunity to humanize the local heroes of your community as well as educate young and old about the day-to-day work of law enforcement. We hope you’ll support and get to know those who work to protect your community by participating in your local National Night Out.
In Holland, National Night Out is held at Kollen Park from 5:30–8:00 pm.
In Zeeland, from 6:00 - 8:00pm, NNO will be held downtown at the corner of Elm and Main St.
For a complete list of all 64 participating cities in Michigan, please refer to the National Night Out website.
Jade Havenaar is a Holland native and a life-long lover of the lake, coffee, and a good book. She’s a former middle school teacher and a published author. After marrying the boy she met in a bar and traveling the US together, she and her husband welcomed their first born and Jade happily added “boy mom” to the list of hats she wears. When she’s not writing or changing diapers, she’s probably out adventuring with her Golden Retriever, Henry.
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