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If you haven’t yet been able to enjoy a National Night Out event in Suffolk, we think this should be your year to take the plunge.

You can start before August even gets here, and though the ducks might get wet, you won’t.

The National Night Out Duck Pluck will take place July 30 during the T.G.I.F. concert at Bennett’s Creek Park, 6 to 9:30 p.m. Participants can obtain a free numbered ticket from the National Night Out tent. During the band’s first break, organizers will pluck a few numbered plastic ducks from the pool, and the holders of the tickets with the same numbers will win National Night Out-themed prizes.

Then on Aug. 3, the fun really begins.

National Night Out is known as a going-away party for crime. The concept is for people to turn on their porch lights, come outside and get to know their neighbors as well as local first responders who serve their area. Ideally, better connections among neighbors and between communities and first responders — as well as, perhaps, criminals seeing an active and engaged community in action — will deter crime.

At its most basic level, though, it’s a great excuse for a party, and after the past 17 months, who really needs an excuse? Events across the city will vary from small gatherings to large, multi-community events in the thousands. Activities at each event vary, but we guarantee you can find good food, crime-fighting information and a welcoming environment at each and every one. Plenty of events will also include things like children’s activities, health and safety information, connections to community resources for adults, and more.

You can read more information in the story that starts on the front page. To learn even more or find the party closest to you, visit suffolknno.com.