National Night Out came and went on Tuesday, Aug. 4, with roughly 250 neighborhood block parties planned around Bloomington. The night before, at the Aug. 3 City Council meeting, the Mayor proclaimed the date National Night Out in Bloomington. Police Chief Hargis took the opportunity to urge residents to find a party on their block and go.
City of Bloomington@CityofBloomingtonMNThe Mayor proclaimed Tuesday, August 4, 2026 as National Night Out in Bloomington, with Police Chief Hargis encouraging residents to attend one of roughly 250 neighborhood block parties planned citywide.08/03
The night runs the same way every year. Police and fire crews visited registered parties from 6 to 8 p.m. Registration opened in early June and closed around the third week of July, and only registered parties could get a visit. The city's rule for latecomers stayed generous: you could still host a party, join a neighbor's, or just turn on your porch light. You just couldn't book a squad car or fire truck.
Most of the night was ordinary block-party stuff, but the city also handed out supplies. Starting in early July, party packets were available that included invitations, Bloomington trivia sheets, information on a chalk art contest, and caution tape from the Police Department lobby. Hosts were also encouraged to collect food for VEAP, and the parties went on rain or shine.
According to the city, the goal is to build relationships between neighbors and to strengthen partnerships with police and fire. The national campaign behind the night also aims to raise awareness of crime and drug prevention and to build neighborhood spirit.
The number for 2026 was smaller than usual. The police department says about 325 or more parties typically happen citywide, and more than 300 registered in 2023. This year's estimate was about 250. The city hasn't published final 2026 numbers.
If your block skipped this year, the schedule for next year is predictable. National Night Out falls on the first Tuesday in August, and registration opens in early June through the city's National Night Out page. Questions go to Katie Zerull, the police department's public safety engagement manager, at 952-563-8808 or [email protected].
From the meeting: City Council Meeting, August 3, 2026.
