Let’s be honest. Most of us know our neighbors by their dogs before we know their names.
National Night Out is a pretty good excuse to change that.
On Tuesday, Aug. 4, neighborhoods all across Columbus will host block parties, cookouts, festivals, and community gatherings as part of the annual National Night Out celebration.
More than 40 local organizations are participating this year, with events scheduled from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
While National Night Out has long included opportunities to meet local police officers and first responders, the real draw is much simpler. It’s an evening built around getting outside, saying hello to the people who share your street, and spending a few hours together before summer slips away.
Depending on where you live, that could mean live music, games for kids, food, neighborhood organizations, or just a chance to catch up with familiar faces you usually wave to from the driveway.
This year’s lineup stretches across Columbus, with events planned in neighborhoods including Schumacher Place, Harrison West, Franklinton, Olde Towne East, Southern Orchards, Linden, Clinton Estates, Sharon Woods, the University District, Milo-Grogan, Berwick, and dozens more.
The City of Columbus awarded more than $35,000 in grants to help neighborhood groups organize this year’s celebrations, supporting everything from traditional block parties to larger community festivals.
Not sure where to go? Chances are there’s an event closer than you think.
The city has put together an interactive map showing participating neighborhoods, making it easy to find the closest gathering. Organizers recommend checking with your neighborhood group before heading out, since event details can occasionally change.
Summer doesn’t have many Tuesday nights left. You might as well spend one meeting the people who make your neighborhood feel like home.
