Thousands of people will get together tonight for the annual Night Out in Seattle event.

“Night Out” is a national Crime Prevention event, designed to heighten crime prevention awareness, increase neighborhood support in anti-crime efforts, and unite our communities.

"It is a great chance to learn about crime prevention, while also celebrating your community and spending time with your neighbors," the event's website states.

The event is an opportunity to bring neighbors together, welcome new neighbors, talk about crime prevention and Block Watch efforts, and mainly to have a good time with food, music, and games.

This year the theme is "Celebrating Crime Free Neighborhoods".

"If you have a neighborhood that has seen a decrease in crime, it is a time to celebrate your achievements. If you have ongoing crime problems you are working on, it is a chance to renew your focus, start a Block Watch if you haven't already, and take a public stand against crime in your neighborhood," the website states.

With approximately two dozen parties going on in Ballard and its nearby neighborhoods, there will be plenty of opportunities to enjoy the summer weather with your fellow Ballardites.

Shilshole Bay Marina is celebrating their ninth annual Night Out with a barbecue, potluck and live entertainment.

The event starts at 6 p.m. at the Main Plaza at Shilshole Bay Marina and at 7 p.m. there will be a brief speaking program about Crime Prevention.

Others are gathering at Ballard Corners Park for an informal potluck to celebrate the park.

To find a neighborhood party near you, visit the Seattle Night Out event map, here.