People will be stepping out Tuesday night on both sides of the Androscoggin River.

Police in Lewiston and Auburn are planning their Annual Nights Out for the same evening. The nationwide event is aimed at strengthening neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships.

In Auburn, things will get under way at 6 p.m. Aug. 5 with a parade marching from the police department, down Court Street to Festival Plaza. Food will be served and numerous activities are planned.

Police are being assisted in the event by the Downtown Auburn Neighbor’s Association and the Citizen Police Academy alumni members.

In Lewiston, the night out begins at 5 p.m. Police, the Lewiston Recreation Department and the Police Athletic League will be dishing out food while kids enjoy pony rides, a petting zoo, arts, a moon walk and demonstrations by firefighters and public works at Lewiston High School on East Avenue.