Since 1984, Salem has celebrated the partnership between residents and police with the combined effort to make our neighborhoods safe and better places to live. We celebrate that relationship, along with the rest of America, annually on the first Tuesday of August. The event is called National Night Out.
Block parties are unique to each neighborhood. In previous years, Salem neighbors would get together for a party on their block between the hours of 6 p.m. and 9 p.m., and officers stop by for a visit. Some residents have ice cream socials on the front lawn, while other neighborhoods close the street and do a cookout for the entire block with music and games.
Host your own block party
Hosting a party? Register your block party here. Once registered you will receive a confirmation e-mail with important info for party hosts. Be sure to read the information.
Neighbors who want to party in the street or at your local city park must complete a registration form to block off their street or use a city park. Normally a permit fee applies, but for National Night Out, the fee is waived. The deadline for street closure and park use requests is July 26, 2026.
Questions about a permit?
For Street Closures call 503-588-6211 ext. 7346
For Park Use call 503-588-6261 option 5.
No permit is needed for a party in your front or back yard, or other private property.
If you have ANY questions, please call the Salem Police Community Engagement Section at 503-588-6175.
Want to do more for National Night Out? Consider a volunteer project!
Neighbors often do a volunteer project in their neighborhood before they have their block party. Examples include painting over graffiti or doing lawn care for an elderly neighbor. No matter what the project, the purpose is to bring everyone together to build a strong, safe neighborhood.
