Gearing Up for a Night Out

It's that time of year again. North Andover will participate in the 28th Annual National Night Out on Aug. 2 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Hayes Stadium behind

National Night Out was started in 1984 to promote crime prevention. It aims at increasing crime awareness, generating support for local crime prevention and neighborhood watch programs, strengthening the relationship between police and the community and showing criminals that their community is united against crime.

Last year, more than 15,000 communities -- more than 37 million people -- participated in the event nationwide.

In North Andover,the event is organized by the along with local Neighborhood Crime Watch members. There will be public safety vehicles on display, games and crafts for the kids, face painting, food and beverages, music and more.

There will also be many organizations and merchants with booths at the event. But the event is free, and no sales or sign-ups are allowed. There will be plenty of coupons and samples, though, and the event has served as a venue in which local businesses can promote their products.

About 2,500 people are expected to attend National Night Out in North Andover.

Patch will be there with a booth, so make sure you stop by and say hi.