Naperville plans several National Night Out events

Naperville residents are invited to unite with their neighbors and community in the fight against crime at any of the city's National Night Out events scheduled on three separate days this summer.

Commonly called "America's Night Out Against Crime," the annual National Night Out is the first Tuesday each August. It is a nationwide event designed to heighten drug prevention and crime awareness, generate support and participation in local anti-crime efforts and strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships.

In addition to gatherings in more than 30 neighborhoods throughout the community on Tuesday, Aug. 1, Naperville's roster of public events celebrating National Night Out includes an opening celebration at Centennial Beach on Monday, July 31, and an Emergency Vehicle Show in downtown Naperville Sunday, Aug. 6.

Here's a look at what's happening:

• Kickoff Celebration from 5 to 8 p.m. Monday, July 31, at Centennial Beach, 500 W. Jackson Ave.

The celebration will feature swimming, a Naperville Fire Department Water Rescue Team demonstration, a balloon artist, a sandcastle-building competition for children, and various giveaways and resource information. There will be limited food and beverages available.

The event is co-sponsored by the park district. Admission is free with the donation of a breakfast food item for Loaves and Fishes Community Services; standard pool entrance rates apply without a food donation.

• Neighborhood events from 6 to 9 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 1.

At least 34 neighborhoods have registered to host National Night Out events with plans to enjoy bounce houses, ice cream socials, live music, cookouts, kids' parades and more. Neighborhood registration is free and gives city representatives - police, fire, public works, animal control, electric and water utility departments and the park district - an opportunity to attend local events with trucks, equipment and information as time and circumstances permit.

• Emergency Vehicle Show and Kids' Cycle Mania from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 6.

Naperville is partnering again with the Downtown Naperville Alliance to bring more than 50 emergency vehicles, including new and vintage police cars and fire engines, SWAT tactical units and modern emergency equipment, to downtown Naperville Aug. 6. The free family friendly event will be on Jackson Avenue between Eagle and Main streets.

Kids Cycle Mania is new to the vehicle show this year. The interactive bike course is centered around bike safety with a small bike rodeo course, helmet fittings, bike safety information, local bike resources and giveaways. Kids are encouraged to bring their bikes to go through the bike rodeo.

For information on National Night Out, visit naperville.il.us/nno.