Many Michiana cities participated in the 26th annual National Night Out. Cities hosted the event to build community awareness and awareness.

Elkhart's Night Out seemed like a big block party. Elkhart police officers served 1600 hot dogs, 2000 cans of soda and water along with many bags of popcorn to residents.

The food was so popular, the police started to run out of hot dogs and had to buy 400 more.

There was also a dunking booth where residents could dunk a cop, and an inflatable slide for kids. Many groups set up information tables to inform the public of services provided by the different agencies.

Parents enjoyed a fingerprint and DNA collection table for kids.

"You never know if you're going to have it just laying around the house. It's reassuring" said Wendy Alexander, who just had her son, Joseph, fingerprinted. "It helps Elkhart going through what it's going through, it's nice to see everyone come together."

Mishawaka held a more formal event. Police officers discussed keeping the community drug free and how to spot potential drug problems.

Also on display were items that some homes should have, such as a fire proof safe and a paper shredder.

The Mishawaka Fire Department let kids play in one of their fire trucks.

"They're just showing us where the stuff is up here, how they drive it and stuff," said 10-year-old Haley Woods as she toured the truck.

South Bend hosted one of the largest events. Police gave away badges to kids and Target gave away $10 gift cards and beach balls.

The South Bend Police Department said National Night Out events are important to building community relations.

"You see up to 250 people that have come out and share with us, talking, getting resources and information and learning whats out there. Especially for the kids to see the community come together like this."

All of the organizers called the events a success and reported higher attendance numbers than last year.