After a year hiatus because of the pandemic, the Turlock Police Department is putting plans in motion for the annual National Night Out celebration.

This year's event is set from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Aug. 3. The police department is currently looking for neighborhoods to register their location and join in on the city-wide festivities.

National Night Out is a night when residents lock their doors, turn on outside lights and spend the evening outdoors getting to know their neighbors and local law enforcement. National Night Out is designed to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness, generate support for local anticrime efforts, strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships.

In previous years Turlock has won awards for the number of neighborhoods participating in the event and it's a trend the department hopes to revive this year.

"By registering your location, you and your family will be the first to learn about our Pop-Up Safety events and the opportunity to receive a special visit the evening of National Night Out," said Turlock Police Crime Prevention Specialist Erika Grace in an email.

The deadline to register is July 16.

As part of this year's National Night Out, the police department is hosting two pop-up events. One event will focus on pedestrian and bicycle safety. There will be contests and the traffic unit and bike team will be out for a helmet giveaway.

The second pop-up event will be on animal safety and the dog walker watch program. The animal control unit and K9 team will be on hand to provide tips on dog walking safety in the heat and the Dog Walker Watch program.

Times and locations for the pop-up events have not yet been set.

To register a neighborhood party or for one of the pop-up events, visit https://ci.turlock.ca.us/policedepartment/getinvolved/nationalnightout.asp.