National Night Out has something to offer residents of all ages. Photo courtesy of Stacey Bastian

RIO LINDA, CA (MPG) - Come one, come all.

On Tuesday, Aug. 6, the Rio Linda/Elverta community is encouraged to participate in National Night Out, a free annual event that is taking place throughout not just Sacramento County, but the entire country. Residents can swim, enjoy a wide variety of foods and listen to music while getting acquainted with local law enforcement, government officials and neighbors from 5 to 8 p.m. Aug. 6 at the Rio Linda High School aquatic center.

Twin Rivers Police Department and the Rio Linda/Elverta Neighborhood Association are hosting the event.

What is National Night Out?

Throughout the country, National Night Out is a project that brings residents and local law enforcement together in a positive way. According to the National Night Out website, “National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie.”

 Children play giant Jenga with law enforcement at a previous Rio Linda National Night Out. Photo courtesy of Stacey Bastian

More than 17,000 communities in the United States participate each year, including Rio Linda, according to National Night Out.

Every year, residents are encouraged to lock their doors, turn on their outdoor lights and join in on the fun with their local police department. Neighborhoods host various community events such as block parties, parades, cookouts, festivals and more.

“The best way to build a safer community is to know your neighbors and your surroundings. National Night Out triumphs over a culture that isolates us from each other and allows us to rediscover our own communities,” former Texas Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison said.

“National Night Out is a great opportunity for friends, neighbors, community members and law enforcement/public safety to come together in a positive manner,” said Tawny Kerley, Twin Rivers Police Department Chief administrative assistant.  “This community gathering allows for members of law enforcement/public safety to meet each other and the community to start or continue relationship building.”

 Sacramento County Supervisor Sue Frost, second from right, makes an appearance at National Night Out. Photo courtesy of Stacey Bastian

The Rio Linda National Night Out event will be joined by Chick-fil-A, Tummy’s Sub Shop, Rio Linda Lions Club, Kona Ice, Future Farmers of America and the Rio Linda Elverta Park District.

The Rio Linda High School aquatic center is located at 6309 Dry Creek Road, Rio Linda.

Residents are encouraged to join in on the fun. More information about National Night Out can be found at https://natw.org/about.