A Yuba City Police Department officer gets to know some young residents at National Night Out. Photo courtesy of Yuba City

YUBA CITY, CA (MPG) - It's not often that the police are the reason for a party, but one night a year, they are.

Yuba City Police Department Support Services Lieutenant Kim Slade said National Night Out strengthens community and first responder partnerships, promotes neighborhood camaraderie, and increases public safety.

“Gatherings for National Night Out are so important because it gives an opportunity for people to interact with their neighbors that they may not do otherwise,” Slade said. “By creating these connections with our community, we can have a safer place to live and work.”

Not centralized, the citywide event took place in 15 different locations this year. 

“During National Night Out, the community is able to share their personal experiences, food, games, and time with our first responders,” said Slade. “Our first responders can take extra time to engage, learn, and give right back to the community and areas that they patrol.”

First responders are just some city officials in attendance. Mayor Shon Harris points out this year that the annual event goes far beyond Yuba City's borders.

“National Night Out is a valuable opportunity for our community to participate in a gesture of unity, solidarity, and support with every community across the country,” Harris said. “The event fosters trust and unity between residents and law enforcement, bringing neighbors and officers together in a relaxed and friendly setting—all just by stepping outside and enjoying the evening together.”

The evening established in 1984 began because of Matt Peskin, a longtime police volunteer in Pennsylvania who turned an informational newsletter for the department into a shared platform nationwide.

After founding the National Association of Town Watch (NATW) in the 1970s, the first annual event in 1984 involved 2.5 million neighbors in 400 communities across 23 states, according to the National Association of Town Watch website. Four decades later, National Night Out is celebrated by up to 38 million neighbors in 17,000 communities.

Yuba City’s National Night Out spreads throughout town yearly when children gather around animals. Photo courtesy of Yuba City

However, unlike other years, post-pandemic times create obstacles, according to Slade. 

“Since COVID, community events have been hard to gain attendance, and the more opportunities we have to bring people together, the better our community can be,” Slade said. “Planning for an event like this can be challenging, as we are asking the community to come together to host locations throughout the city,” Slade said.

“We reach out to neighborhood watch leaders, apartment complexes, churches, local businesses, schools, and everyone who follows our social media presence to try and make this night a success.”

Along with post-pandemic barriers, price is a factor for the non-profit event, which is supported by local business donations. Slade said gratis food, toys, or raffle items connect the community.

“Last year, we had 18 locations spread throughout the city, and each location had attendance ranging from 5 to 150 guests,” Slade said. This year, we also received donations from Walmart and Home Depot to provide games and toys for children.”

After obtaining donations, Slade said the police department must purchase items to give to the neighborhood parties, provide contact information for local food trucks and vendors, and coordinate with the city officials to ensure each location is a memorable event.

“And to encourage further participation in the coming years,” Slade said.

Calling the Aug. 6 evening “a powerful opportunity to strengthen community bonds and public safety,” Mayor Harris said National Night Out this year helps “create lasting relationships that are essential for a harmonious and secure neighborhood.”

With the buzz of the Aug. 6 event still in the air, Slade said anyone who did not register a location this year can always participate in the 2025 event.

“We would love more locations and opportunities to meet new people in different neighborhoods,” Slade said.

“These parties can range from a large gathering in a parking lot to a small neighborhood barbeque, and any events are welcome.”