Neighbors all over Ballard took to the streets last night and raised awareness about crime the only way they knew how -- by partying and having a good time.

From Shilshole Bay Marina to Phinney Ridge to Crown Hill (as well as the rest of Seattle), neighbors blocked off roads everywhere. Residents ate barbecue, listened to music, played games, had their faces painted, met pirates and filled the air with chatter.

But Night Out isn't all just about fun and games. (Just mostly.) It's about meeting neighbors and preventing crime. And while Ballard is safe as far as violent crimes go, it does have a high rate of property crime, with a steady stream of burglaries and attempted burglaries happening every week. Robberies, assaults and even sexual assaults also happen occasionally.

One of the best ways to prevent crime is by getting to know your neighbor, making new friends, and keeping an eye out on each other.

The Ballard News-Tribune took part in a couple festivities, hitting up the Shilshole Bay Marina and the East Ballard Night Outs -- which have grown to be two of the biggest celebrations. Click on the main picture above or the thumbnails below.

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