Lower Merion's National Night Out is landing at Suburban Square in Ardmore for the first time this summer, bringing free carnival rides, live music and a chance to meet local police and firefighters to the heart of the Main Line shopping district.

The 43rd annual festival runs from 6 to 9 p.m. Tuesday, August 4, at Suburban Square. Admission is free.

"We are excited about the move to Suburban Square and are expecting a big crowd," said Matt Peskin, executive director of the National Association of Town Watch. Peskin is a Wynnewood resident who founded the event in 1984.

Peskin launched National Night Out with the motto "Lights On Means Lights Out for Crime," initially inviting neighbors to turn on porch lights and sit outside together for one hour each summer. The concept grew into the community festival format residents know now.

The Lower Merion event is hosted by the National Association of Town Watch in partnership with Lower Merion Community Watch. Representatives from the Lower Merion Police Department, local fire companies, and Narberth Ambulance will be on hand to meet residents and showcase emergency response equipment.

Beyond the safety exhibits, the evening includes food vendors, carnival games, jugglers, face painters and roving entertainment. The Lower Merion School District will staff a table with back-to-school checklists, activity books, and giveaways. District administrators plan to answer school-related questions and share information about job openings, according to the LMSD event listing.

Organizers are also asking attendees to bring non-perishable food items for the ElderNet Food Pantry.

If you go

What: National Night Out Festival

When: Tuesday, August 4, 6–9 p.m.

Where: Suburban Square, Ardmore

Cost: Free; no registration required

Bring: Non-perishable food items for ElderNet Food Pantry (optional)