Hundreds of residents across Prince George’s County attended National Night Out celebrations that took place in their local communities on August 1.

National Night Out, also known as “America’s Night Out Against Crime, was introduced in 1984 and began as an effort to promote involvement in crime prevention activities, police-community partnerships, and forge neighborhood camaraderie.

The event offers an opportunity residents and law enforcement to build relationships, trust and address their concerns while have a good time. During a time where gun violence and youth crime is on the rise, National Night Out is one of the ways the county is bringing the community together in a positive way.

Several police departments participated in National Night Out, including Bowie Police Department, Greenbelt Police Department, Hyattsville Police Department and others.

National Night Out happens annually, on the first Tuesday of August.