Block parties and pool parties are making a comeback next month with a goal of building connections to improve safety.
Many area communities are holding Night to Unite gatherings on Tuesday. The city of Mankato will celebrate later in the month.
The annual community-building gatherings were canceled last summer due to the pandemic but most are back on this year.
North Mankato Police Chief Ross Gullickson said the primary goal of Night to Unite is to create opportunities for residents to connect with and get to know their neighbors.
“Neighborhood connection and communication is an important aspect of helping to keep neighborhoods safe,” the chief said.
In many communities, first-responders visit the gatherings.
“Secondarily, Night to Unite is an opportunity for people to connect with their police and fire officials to talk about concerns, answer questions, and sometimes just enjoy some idle chit chat with one another,” Gullickson said.