WESTPORT–It’s a movement that began four decades ago, but August 4 will mark Westport’s first annual National Night Out.

Hosted by the Westport Police Department and lasting from 5 to 8 p.m. at Jesup Green and the Taylor Lot, the public is invited to meet and mingle with local first responders. The event is free.

Families are invited to meet local police officers, firefighters, EMS personnel, and other first responders who serve our town.

Assistant Superintendent John Bayers said that many of the officers assigned to Westport Public Schools, including the district’s School Resource Officers and members of the School Security Unit will be participating and look forward to seeing many students and families there.

The nationwide community-building campaign aims to strengthen neighborhood camaraderie and police-community partnerships.

In Westport, the event will include food vendors and games.

National Night Out was introduced in August of 1984 through an already established network of law enforcement agencies, neighborhood watch groups, civic groups, state and regional crime prevention associations and volunteers across the nation. It started with 2.5 million neighbors across 400 communities in 23 states and has since grown to include all 50 states, U.S. territories and military bases worldwide, always on the first Tuesday in August.

 In Connecticut this year, 39 cities and towns are expected to participate.