The Houston Independent School District Police Department is set to celebrate this year’s National Night Out at Marshall Middle Academy of Fine Arts.

National Night Out is an annual event that aims to make neighborhoods safer by strengthening relationships between community members and police departments.

“This event is a great opportunity for our district, community members, and police officers to mingle, share information, and stand together against crime and other issues of concern,” HISD Police Chief Paul Cordova said. “We want people to feel confident and secure in their own neighborhoods.”

HISD Police will honor the day with a celebration at Marshall Middle Academy of Fine Arts from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Oct. 2 — the day that National Night Out is commemorated in Texas.

The event, which is free and open to all HISD students and parents, will feature local vendors and organizations, music, food, exhibits, safety demonstrations, and appearances from emergency personnel.

HISD Police Community Outreach Officer Vanessa Losey said she was amazed by how many community organizations and businesses had expressed interested in participating in the event.

“It’s beautiful to see the outpouring of support and willingness to help us highlight National Night Out,” Losey said. “It’ll be a night of learning, of sharing, of fun. Come out and meet our agency. We are here for HISD, we are here for our community, and we’re super excited for National Night Out.”