When the sun sets Tuesday, there will be plenty of local parties around the area celebrating the 31st annual National Night Out.

The Highlands Neighborhood Association is stepping up the block-party tradition with a carnival theme from 6 to 9 p.m. at Archie Anderson Park.

Revelers can expect cotton candy and snow cones, chalk drawing, more than 20 vendors with games and food, and a visit from the Cowlitz Cobras football team, Highlands Community Center Director Sarah Williams said.

The torches of community solidarity will be lit throughout Longview between 6 and 9 p.m. at six other locations: Vandercook Park; Youth Family Link, 1952 9th Ave.; 200 block of 18th Ave.; 100 block of 16th Ave.; 1562 Floral Court; and 1708 33rd Ave.

Castle Rock will have a community barbecue and bicycle rodeo at Castle Rock Elementary, and Kelso will rally at Tam O’Shanter Park.

The 30-year-old event was started by the National Association of Town Watch to combat crime by bringing neighbors together and building relationships with police, according to the group.

If you don’t see your neighborhood’s event listed, please email frontdoor@tdn.com.