LEWISTON – For police, it comes down to one simple fact: when neighbors look out for one another, crime rates go down.

In an effort to bring people out to mingle, Lewiston police will again be hosting a block party for a National Night Out Celebration. The party will kick off at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday at Marcotte Park.

The yearly event typically brings out hundreds. For some, it’s the free food grilled and served up by police. For others it’s the pony rides, arts and crafts, face-painting, moon-walking, music, fingerprinting and various raffles.

This year’s block party will feature a 10-foot police officer named Pal and exhibitions by police and fire crews.

The aim is entertainment with the bigger goal of getting local people to interact with each other and with police.

“National Night Out has proven to be an effective and enjoyable program that promotes neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships,” said police Chief William Welch. “As neighbors meet neighbors, our community benefits not only for the one evening, but the program provides and opportunity to develop positive relationships that will last all year long.”