MEDFORD, Ore. (July. 31, 2026) — Residents across the Rogue Valley will have an opportunity to meet local law enforcement officers, first responders and neighbors during this year’s National Night Out events on Tuesday, Aug. 4, as communities including Medford, Jacksonville and Rogue River host free family-friendly gatherings focused on strengthening community relationships and promoting public safety.
National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign held on the first Tuesday in August. Launched in 1984, the nationwide event encourages residents to spend time outdoors with their neighbors while fostering partnerships between law enforcement, emergency responders and the communities they serve. Millions of people in all 50 states participate each year through neighborhood gatherings, public safety demonstrations and community celebrations aimed at preventing crime and building safer neighborhoods.
This year marks the first time the Jacksonville Police Department will host an official National Night Out event.
Jacksonville’s celebration will take place from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Bigham Knoll Campus, 525 Bigham Knoll Drive. Organizers say attendees can meet Jacksonville police officers and other first responders, explore police vehicles and emergency equipment, participate in family-friendly games and activities, enjoy free food and refreshments while supplies last, and connect with local businesses and community organizations.
“This is an exciting milestone for the Jacksonville Police Department,” said Officer Johnson, the department’s community resource coordinator. “Hosting National Night Out for the first time reflects our commitment to building strong relationships with our community. We look forward to bringing neighbors, businesses, and public safety personnel together for an evening focused on partnership, trust, and making Jacksonville an even safer place to live.”
In Rogue River, the community celebration will also run from 6 to 8 p.m. at Rooster Park. The event will feature children’s games and activities, pizza, ice cream, live music, law enforcement demonstrations and opportunities for residents to meet local public safety personnel. Organizers encourage attendees to bring lawn chairs.
The Medford Police Department will host its National Night Out event from 5 to 7 p.m. at Alba Park, 301 W. Main St. The evening will include a community barbecue, cornhole games with police officers, public safety vehicle displays and opportunities for residents to ask questions and interact with officers in an informal setting. Shaved ice will also be available for purchase.
National Night Out organizers say the annual event is designed to strengthen neighborhood connections, improve communication between residents and public safety agencies, and encourage community involvement in crime prevention efforts.
All three Southern Oregon events are free and open to the public. Organizers encourage families, businesses and community members to attend and help build stronger, safer neighborhoods through positive community engagement.
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