The University of Arkansas at Little Rock community and its neighbors can enjoy free food, prizes, and live music by the UALR pep band during a National Night Out observance from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 6, at the University Plaza parking lot.

“It’s a big celebration to get together, meet new people, and have a good time,” said Ronald Copeland, university district director.

Hosted by the University District Neighborhoods Association, this event is open to all residents, employees, students, and friends of the University District.

“The purpose of the event is to encourage neighbors and the community to get to know each other and to reinforce the safety of the neighborhood,” Copeland said.

Hot dogs, popcorn, and drinks will be served at 5:30 p.m., and an awards ceremony for first responders will begin at 6 p.m. Little Rock police and firefighters, the Metropolitan Emergency Medical Services, and UALR public safety workers also will receive recognition.

Information tables with details about numerous community organization programs and businesses will be available, and attendees may enter their names into a drawing to win prizes.

National Night Out is a campaign through the National Association of Town Watch, a nonprofit crime prevention organization. The annual community-building campaign promotes neighborhood camaraderie and police-community partnerships as a way to make neighborhoods safer.

The University District Neighborhood Association includes the following neighborhoods: Broadmoor, College Terrace, Fair Park,  Midtown, Point O’Woods, South of Asher, University Park, and War Memorial.