More than 100 National Night Out Parties Tuesday in St. Louis Park

Each year, Neighborhood Watch captains throughout St. Louis Park organize block parties to celebrate National Night Out, and 2016 is no different.

Various neighborhoods throughout St. Louis Park are among thousands in all 50 states that are hosting festivities on Tuesday, Aug. 2.

The events are part of a U.S. initiative that's been held in individual communities every year since 1984. Sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch, they aim to increase awareness about police programs such as drug prevention, town watch, neighborhood watch and other anti-crime efforts.

Last year, local police officers and other city staff members attended more than 120 citywide gatherings, according to the Sun Sailor.

For more information on the National Association of Town Watch, visit natw.org.