The local version of National Night Out will be held Saturday, Aug. 9 from 3 to 6 p.m., at St John's Lutheran Church, located at 3104 Main Street in Green Lane. The Marlborough Township Police Department has once again organized the activities for an afternoon of bonding between area police departments and the community.

            "Officers and participants look forward to National Night Out each year because it builds strong community relationships, fosters trust, and provides a fun, positive environment for neighbors to connect with law enforcement," said Marlborough Off. Carlos Cartagena, the department's community relations officer and National Night Out coordinator.

            In addition to building positive relationships with the police, the event aims to allow neighbors to get to know each other; raise awareness of crime prevention strategies; and send the unifying message that communities are against crime.

            The free event at St. John's will feature K-9 and fire demonstrations, a helicopter landing, and safety information. Games, family-friendly activities, music and other entertainment will also enhance the event.

            "New this year will be a bounce house for children of all ages, and police motorcycle units for display along with other police and emergency vehicle displays," wrote Cartagena in an email.

            National Night Out has been on the scene since 1984, originating in Lower Merion Township as a way to support Town Watch programs. In that first year, 2.5 million neighbors across 400 communities in 23 states participated by turning porch lights on to indicate support for local law enforcement, according to the NNO website natw.org.

            Since then, the national organization estimates that the rate of participation has grown to 38 million people in 17,000 communities across the United States.        Traditionally, National Night Out officially occurs each year on the first Tuesday in August, but local communities are given the latitude to set their own dates. Marlborough has hosted the local version of NNO since 2019.

            "Over the years, National Night Out has grown in both size and impact bringing more community partners, families and first responders together," Cartagena said. "It's become more interactive and inclusive, helping to strengthen the bond between law enforcement and the communities served."

            Parking directions will be posted in the vicinity of the church. Stay up-to-date on the event through the Marlborough police social media outlets, including Facebook.