Scheduled for the first Tuesday of August, the cities of Oakdale and Riverbank will join others across the country in observing National Night Out on Aug. 4. The following evening, Aug. 5, residents of Valley Home will have their celebration of the annual event.

The Oakdale Police Department observance of National Night Out will run from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Aug. 4, bringing residents and first responders together to promote community partnerships, neighborhood connections and public safety. The evening will begin with a community kickoff event at Dorada Park, 600 N. Second Ave., adjacent to the swimming pool. The kickoff is open to the public, and all residents are invited to meet local officers, participate in the festivities and help launch the citywide celebration.

From there, Oakdale police officers and other first responders will visit participating neighborhood and apartment community events throughout the city. Gatherings on the official Night Out schedule include: East G Street and South Maag Avenue; California Avenue and Laurel Avenue; Olive Street and School Avenue; Carmel Ranch Circle; Tesoro Clubhouse; Golden Empire Apartments; and Oak Leaf Meadow Apartments.

In Riverbank, the National Night Out event will run from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Aug. 4 and be hosted by Riverbank Police Services. Festivities will be offered at Silva Park, 5800 Antique Rose Way, with free food and drinks, emergency vehicles on display and a chance for residents to interact with law enforcement personnel and first responders in a relaxed family-friendly atmosphere.

Valley Home is planning its National Night Out for a day later than the nationwide date, observing it on Wednesday, Aug. 5. Featured at the Valley Home gathering will be a car show that starts at 5 p.m. and a community potluck dinner that begins at 6:30 p.m.; all are welcome. Bring a dish to share and meet neighbors, friends and first responders.

National Night Out has been observed across the country for more than 40 years; billed as a way for citizens to ‘take back the night’ from crime and to build positive community-police partnerships.