A WHEELY GOOD TIME. The annual National Night Out celebration in Eau Claire includes a bike giveaway. (Submitted photo)

National Night Out is an annual community-building initiative that helps promote community-law enforcement partnerships through celebration and neighborhood camaraderie. This year, communities across the U.S. and the Chippewa Valley are preparing to celebrate the 40th annual National Night Out  on Tuesday, Aug. 1. National Night Out enhances the relationship between neighbors and law enforcement while bringing back a true sense of community. Furthermore, it provides an opportunity to get police and neighbors together under positive circumstances.

Eau Claire Police Department Public Information Officer Ben Hundt says National Night Out is an excellent way for the department’s officers to have fun and create positive connections with the community. “We are so happy to be able to join our community partners in this event. Our officers love the opportunity to interact with the people of Eau Claire on this engaging and family-oriented night,” Hundt said.

Here are details on local communities’ National Night Out events:

Eau Claire

Eau Claire’s celebration will be held at Carson Park from 5:30-8pm Tuesday, Aug. 1. There is no cost for the event, which this year will feature live Irish music, Irish dancers, Volume One e-bike demonstrations, a mascot dance-off, magician show, balloon artist, Sky Yoga demonstrations, and Power Wheels. The City of Eau Claire’s fleet divisions and police and fire department vehicles will be present throughout the event. There will also be inflatables, food, beverages, music, and more. Learn more here.

Schedule of Events

● 5:30-7:30pm: Parks and Recreation games and activities, hot dogs and drinks (while supplies last), vendor alley (information, giveaways, raffles), EMS and public service vehicle tours, and balloons and inflatables.

● 6:00-7:30pm: Live music, dancing, magic, and power wheels.

● 7:15-7:30pm: Mascot Challenge – Dance-Off.

● 7:45 pm: Raffle prizes and bike giveaways.

Altoona

Altoona’s celebration will be 5:30-8pm Aug. 1 at River Prairie Park. Find details at this Facebook event page.

Chippewa Falls

Chippewa Falls will host its event at the Northern Wisconsin State Fairgrounds from 5-8pm on Aug. 1. The celebration will include music, a canine presentation, free food, and a dunk tank. Learn more on Facebook.

Menomonie

Menomonie’s National Night Out will be 6-8pm Aug. 1 at Wilson Park, and will include vehicle displays, kids’ activities (including inflatables and face painting), live music, food trucks, and a Ludington Guard Band concert. More information about Menomonie’s celebration can be found here.