It’s time to party with the police. The Bainbridge Island Police Department is inviting the community to come celebrate at the 33rd annual National Night Out, planned for 5 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 2 at city hall’s Town Square.

National Night Out takes place each year on the first Tuesday in August to heighten awareness and strengthen local anti-crime efforts. It’s also a way to build bonds between the police department and the community. The family-friendly event includes free food and activities for all ages, with games, equipment displays and the opportunity to meet Bainbridge officers.

“I want to encourage all Bainbridge Island residents to attend this year’s National Night Out,” said Bainbridge Police Chief Matthew Hamner.

“Participating in National Night Out is not only fun for the entire family, it’s also a meaningful way to bring community members together with the officers that serve them,” he said.

One of the highlights of the event is the opportunity to participate in a pie-eating contest to raise funds for Bainbridge’s Chief for a Day honoree, Zoe Henry.

The “Chief for a Day” program gives children with chronic illnesses the chance to have a day where they can focus on their lives and not their illnesses.

The final contest of the evening will feature a pie-eating contest between Hamner and Chief Zoe, 7.

Support for National Night Out is provided by local merchants and nonprofits. Those who cannot attend National Night Out in person can still join in by leaving the front porch light on, which is a hallmark of the event.