Duluth Police Announce 4 Popular Community Events Coming In August

There's a reason police departments across the country spend so much energy getting officers out of squad cars and into block parties, ballparks, and community festivals: familiarity builds trust, and trust makes communities safer.

It's the whole idea behind National Night Out, which, according to the National Association of Town Watch, has grown from 2.5 million participants in 400 communities in its first year back in 1984 to roughly 38 million people across more than 16,000 communities today.

When neighbors know the men and women who protect them by name, everybody wins. The Duluth Police Department follows suit — and they've just announced several opportunities to do exactly that in Duluth.

They recently invited the Duluth community to four events hitting the calendar next month, and there's genuinely something for everyone: block parties, police dogs, cool vehicles, and a charity softball grudge match.

Get our free mobile app

National Night Out Kicks Things Off August 4

The granddaddy of them all comes first. National Night Out runs on Tuesday, August 4, from 5 to 9 PM at participating neighborhood block parties across the city, giving officers and neighbors a chance to connect over burgers rather than emergencies.

And here's the fun part: your neighborhood can get in on it. If you'd like to host a block party of your own, you can register online through the Duluth Police Department.

Operation K9 Brings The Dogs Out August 13

On Thursday, August 13, from 4:30 to 8 PM, Operation K9 takes over Wessman Arena at 2701 Catlin Avenue in Superior.

The public is invited to meet K9s from law enforcement agencies around the region, watch demonstrations of what these four-legged officers can do, and enjoy family-friendly activities. If your kids love dogs, this one circles itself on the calendar.

Kids, Cops, and Cars Rolls Into Bayfront On August 19

On Wednesday, August 19, from 11 AM to 2 PM, Bayfront (350 Harbor Drive) hosts Kids, Cops, and Cars, showcasing law enforcement and first responder vehicles of all kinds.

SEE NOW: 8 Minnesota Cities Now Rank Among The Best Places To Live In America

Kids can climb around the machinery they usually only see with lights flashing, and everyone gets a chance to chat with the officers and first responders who drive them.

Battle Of The Badges Returns To Wade Stadium on August 26

The summer wraps up with a friendly rivalry for a serious cause. On Wednesday, August 26, the 17th Annual Battle of the Badges Charity Softball Game pits the Duluth Police Department against the Duluth Fire Department at historic Wade Stadium (101 N 35th Ave W), with doors opening at 5 PM.

Proceeds benefit the Northern Lights Foundation, the Duluth-based charity that has raised more than $1.5 million since 2006 to support Northland families with children facing life-threatening illnesses.

Bragging rights for them, real help for local families — that's a win no matter which department comes out on top.

Mark The Calendar Now

Four events, four chances to shake a hand, pet a police dog, or heckle a firefighter's swing, all in the name of a stronger community.

For updates on any of the events, follow the department's social channels at DuluthMNPolice or visit the Duluth Police Department's website. See you out there this August.