National Night Out

National Night Out - 2017

National Night Out is held the first Tuesday, every August from 6 PM to 9 PM. Neighbors throughout Los Altos are invited to join forces with thousands of communities nationwide for the “National Night Out” anti-crime prevention event. 

National Night Out, which is sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch and co-sponsored locally by the Los Altos Police Department, involves over 16,124 communities in all 50 states, U.S. territories, Canadian cities, and military bases around the world. Annually, approximately one million people participate in National Night Out, supported in part by the US Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Assistance. 

National Night Out is designed to 

  • Heighten awareness for crime prevention 
  • Generate support and participation in local anti-crime efforts
  • Strengthen neighborhood spirit and community-police relations
  • Send a message to criminals letting them know neighborhoods are organized and fighting back

National Night Out is an extraordinary way to build neighborhood unity and strengthen police-community partnerships. 


National Night Out Flier, Application +more

  • National Night Out flier
  • National Night Out Application
  • Block Party Application
    • Note: Block Party's are totally optional. The host can hold their gathering in their front or back yard as well. Submit the Block Party application no later than July 15th, if you want your gathering to extend into the street, and blocked off so no vehicles can drive through. Block Party's are free of charge and are available to residents year round.   

Mail, Drop-Off, Email or Fax the National Night Out Application & Block Party Application no later than July 15th each year.

Los Altos Police Department
1 N San Antonio Road
Los Altos, CA 94022
Attn: National Night Out
Fax: (650) 947-2704
Email: police@losaltosca.gov


Ideas for Neighborhood Events

Creativity and individuality are what makes National Night Out fun for your family and all your neighbors! There are many things you can do to celebrate. Here are some great ideas that we have seen different neighborhoods do in the past:

  • Ice cream social
  • Potluck
  • BBQ
  • Pie baking contest
  • Children’s activities
  • Themed party

Frequently Asked Questions

What do I need to do to set up National Night Out?
It’s easy; simply plan an event for neighbors to attend the first Tuesday of every August. Your event can be as formal or informal as you would like. 

Can I block off my street?
Yes! You must apply for a free Block Party Permit no later than July 15th in order to close off your street to traffic. 

Who can I contact if I have questions?
Los Altos Police Business Office (650) 947-2770 or email police@losaltosca.gov.  

Will my National Night Out event be attended by the Los Altos Police?
Yes! If you submit your National Night Out application no later than July 15th your event will be on our list to attend.