The Bradenton Police Department is inviting local businesses, nonprofit organizations, community groups and youth programs to participate in its 2026 National Night Out Block Party, scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 6.

The community event will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. in the Bradenton Police Department parking lot at 100 10th St. W.

National Night Out, commonly known as NNO, is an annual community-building campaign designed to strengthen relationships between law enforcement officers and the people they serve while encouraging neighbors to become more connected with one another. The nationwide program promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie as part of an effort to create safer, more caring communities.

The National Association of Town Watch introduced National Night Out in 1984. The inaugural event included approximately 2.5 million people in 400 communities across 23 states. It has since grown into a nationwide effort featuring block parties, festivals, cookouts, youth activities, public safety demonstrations and opportunities for residents to interact with police officers and other first responders in an informal setting.

Although National Night Out is generally observed on the first Tuesday in August, some participating communities hold their celebrations on the first Tuesday in October. The national organization lists Oct. 6 as the October date for the 2026 campaign.

For Bradenton’s celebration, police are seeking vendors that can provide activities and giveaways for children, Touch-A-Truck opportunities and other family-friendly experiences. Local businesses, nonprofits, community organizations and youth programs are encouraged to participate.

The event gives families an opportunity to meet local law enforcement and community organizations while children participate in activities and explore vehicles and equipment. Events such as these are a central part of National Night Out’s goal of bringing police officers and residents together under positive circumstances.

Organizations interested in participating should RSVP by Sept. 21 to Bradenton Police Sgt. Alexandra Emrich at 941-932-9305 or Alexandra.Emrich@bradentonpd.com.

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