The City of Sanford is excited to announce this year’s National Night Out (NNO) program will be held on the first Tuesday of August, which is August 5 this year.
While NNO has been celebrated on the first Tuesday of October the past few years, it was a summer event for the 26 years prior to making adjustments following the COVID-19 pandemic.
The National Association of Town Watch offers cities two dates for NNO: the first Tuesday of August or the first Tuesday of October. While October typically brings milder weather, long-time NNO coordinators overwhelmingly prefer the longer sunlight and activities that come with a summer date.
“Our goal is to bring neighbors together in a fun and safe way to strengthen community bonds,” says Kelly Miller, public information officer and National Night Out program manager for the City of Sanford. “The date that works for our coordinators is the date that works for us,” she notes.
Neighborhoods interested in participating in the City’s NNO program must select a coordinator to register the neighborhood. Event ideas include a neighborhood cookout, pool party, potluck, or even an information session.
Coordinators should register their neighborhood on the City’s website at www.sanfordnc.net/nno. Registered neighborhoods will receive an NNO merchandise kit that includes a promotional banner, t-shirts, caps, and items for youth.
To be guaranteed a kit, coordinators must register by June 30, 2025. Any coordinators who register after that date are not guaranteed a kit. No NNO registrations will be accepted after August 1, 2025.
All registered neighborhoods will receive visits from the Sanford Police Department, Sanford Fire Department, municipal officials, and municipal staff. Visits will start after 4pm. No visits will take place after 9pm.
The Sanford Fire Department uses NNO as an opportunity to share fire prevention tips and to educate residents about the department’s free smoke alarm program. City residents who need a smoke alarm should contact the department at 919-775-8313 immediately to schedule an installation.
For more information about National Night Out, contact Miller at 919-718-4658 x1 or kelly.miller@sanfordnc.net.