Katy-area residents spend a 'night out' at local gatherings

Cooler temps are expected Tuesday night as Katy-area residents get out of their homes and into the streets with their neighbors to celebrate National Night Out.
Neighborhoods and communities from Fry Road into the Katy city limits are hosting barbecues and block parties where neighbors can get to know each other as well as the police officers who protect them.
If you're thinking that this event was in August, you're halfway right. National Night Out has traditionally been held the first Tuesday in August. But last year state participants decided August was just too hot of a month (can I get an 'Amen' anyone?) and moved the Night Out to October in hopes of increasing participation.
While we're still experiencing some warm days (highs are still in the low '90s), the evenings have been cool and breezy, just perfect for hanging out outside.
Tons of parties are planned and some of the bigger ones include Cinco Ranch's get-together at LaCenterra starting at 6 p.m. Deputies from the Fort Bend County Sheriff's Office will be there along with food, music and entertainment.
The Katy Police Department is hosting its Night Out at Katy City Park starting at 5:30 p.m. A LifeFlight helicopter is expected and will probably be the highlight of the evening, at least for the kids. Food and activities are also planned.
Other events include the Silvermill neighborhood's military and veterans parade. Residents who have served in the military will ride in the parade and Mayde Creek ROTC's Color Guard will perform. The oldest veteran is expected to lead the parade in a 1963 red corvette. Barbecue and activities are planned.
More than 15 block parties are planned in the Avalon/Seven Meadows neighborhood. The community's Neighborhood Watch group has encouraged as many parties as possible to support National Night Out. Last year, the neighborhood only had 5 parties.
And finally, deputies with the Harris County Sheriff's Office will be making the rounds to several parties including large ones planned at Westlake Place and Westgreen along N. Fry Road. Music, barbecue, games and hand-outs will be provided and firefighters are also planning to attend.
Do you have plans to host a Night Out event or to attend on? What do you like about this annual event?