Bend Police Department invites community to National Night Out event

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- The Bend Police Department is inviting the community to its annual National Night Out, a free, family-friendly event aimed at strengthening relationships between law enforcement and the public.

The event is scheduled for 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, August 4th at Mountain View High School.

Part of a nationwide initiative, National Night Out brings neighbors and police together for an evening of activities, food, and community connection. In Bend, the event will include live music, lawn games, face painting, bounce houses, and demonstrations from the department’s K9 unit and drone team.

Attendees will also be able to explore a variety of emergency vehicles, including a Bend Police patrol car, an armored vehicle, and a fire engine. Officers will serve hot dogs along with other food and drinks, and local organizations will be on hand to share community resources.

Organizers say accessibility is a priority this year. The first hour of the event, from 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., will be sensory-friendly, featuring reduced noise, no sirens, and no flashing lights. Sensory kits will also be available through the Central Oregon Disability Services Network.

The event is made possible through support from local sponsors and community partners.

More information and event updates can be found on the Bend Police Department’s Facebook page.