LAKEPORT, Calif. — An annual gathering to foster a safer community is coming up next week.

The Lakeport Police Department and its community partners are hosting the National Night Out Against Crime on Tuesday, Oct. 1.

It will take place from 4 to 7 p.m. in Lakeport’s new Xabatin Community Park.

This event is a community building partnership meant to bring law enforcement, other agencies and the public together in public spaces under positive circumstances. The goal is to reduce crime and build a more resilient community.

There will be numerous games and other fun activities for the whole family at the event including face painting, raffle prizes, balloons, music and a kid’s bike parade.

Children who want to participate in the parade can bring their bicycles and enter the Lakeport Main Street Association bicycle decorating contest.

This free event is sponsored by many local citizens and businesses. Community partners will be present with booths providing important public information and resources.

Lakeport Kiwanis Club will again be serving hot dogs, donated by Lakeport Grocery Outlet, and popcorn, donated by Lakeport Cinema 5.

Lakeport Police, supported by local youth volunteers, will have snow cones, lemonade and water available.

Safety Pup, Chipper and McGruff the Crime Dog will be on-hand interacting with the community.

There will be many raffle prizes for both kids and adults. All in attendance will be given two general prize raffle tickets with opportunities to earn more by adults visiting all of the partner booths and completing a bingo card, and by kids participating in games. Gift Cards for free ice cream, at Lyndall's Sports Stop, or donuts, at Susie Q's Donuts & Espresso, will be given to those meeting and greeting a Lakeport Police officer.

Complete details including names of participating agencies and sponsors as well as prize details will be posted on the event Facebook page.