Neighbors across the Southwest suburbs will have an opportunity to connect with police officers, firefighters and first responders during National Night Out on Tuesday, Aug. 4.
National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign held on the first Tuesday in August that promotes partnerships between law enforcement agencies and the residents they serve. Communities across the country host family-friendly events designed to strengthen police-community relationships, encourage crime prevention and foster neighborhood pride through positive interaction.
Celebrations often include emergency vehicle displays, children’s activities, games, food, music and opportunities for residents to meet public safety personnel in a relaxed setting.
The following Southwest suburban communities will host National Night Out events or similar police-community outreach programs on Tuesday, Aug. 4, listed alphabetically:
Chicago Ridge
Time: 5 to 9 p.m.
Location: Parking lot behind Chicago Ridge Village Hall.
The event will provide residents with an opportunity to meet local police officers, learn about public safety resources and participate in community activities.
Hickory Hills
Time: 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: Kasey Meadow Park.
The free community event will feature a summer concert, family activities and participation from local safety groups.
Hometown
Time: 4 to 8 p.m.
Location: Patterson Park.
Food, family fun, and community engagement with local officers.
Oak Lawn
Time: 5:30 to 8 p.m.
Location: Village Green, 9446 S. Raymond Ave.
“National Night Out is one of our favorite events of the year,” said Oak Lawn Mayor Terry Vorderer. “It gives our first responders the opportunity to connect with residents in a relaxed, positive environment. Events like this build trust, strengthen relationships, and remind us that public safety is a shared responsibility. We’re proud to celebrate the partnerships that make Oak Lawn a safer and stronger community.”
Local vendors offering food, treats, and refreshment. Police and Fire Department demonstrations. Live DJ entertainment. Face painting. Balloon artists. Dunk tank.
Orland Park
Time: 5 to 8 p.m.
Location: Orland Park Village Center, 14750 S. Ravinia Ave., Orland Park.
Residents can enjoy family-friendly activities while meeting members of the Orland Park Police Department and other community partners.
Palos Heights
Time: 6 to 9 p.m.
Location: Palos Heights Police Department, 7607 W. College Drive, Palos Heights.
The annual event will offer residents the chance to connect with local law enforcement and first responders in a family-friendly setting.
Palos Hills
Time: 6 to 8 p.m.
Location: Town Square Park.
The 10th annual Palos Hills National Night Out will bring residents together for an evening focused on community partnerships and public safety.
Palos Park
Time: July 7 and July 14, 6 to 8 p.m.
Location: Kaptur Administrative Center (Palos Park Village Hall).
While Palos Park will not host a traditional National Night Out event, the Palos Park Police Department and Palos Fire Protection District have launched a joint commUnity Night initiative to strengthen connections between residents and the public safety officials who serve them.
The program began in July and will continue through the end of the year, providing residents with opportunities to meet members of the police and fire departments while learning about a variety of public safety topics. Each month, the same program information will be offered on two separate Tuesday evenings, giving residents multiple opportunities to attend.
Palos Park Police Commissioner Polk said the “U” in commUnity is capitalized because the program is designed for residents while strengthening the unity between the community and those who serve it.
Palos Park Deputy Chief Chris Hughes described the program as a casual information opportunity for residents and public safety personnel to meet while discussing important safety topics. Palos Fire Battalion Chief Aaron Rutter said the department is excited to work with the police department on the community outreach program.
Worth
Time: 5 to 8 p.m.
Location: Altman Park Boat Launch, 7205 W. 115th St., Worth.
The free, family-friendly event will feature local police and community partnerships while providing an opportunity for residents to connect with public safety officials.
National Night Out has grown into one of the nation’s largest community policing initiatives, with millions of residents participating each year. The annual event encourages stronger relationships between law enforcement and residents while promoting safer, more connected neighborhoods.