Many communities across the nation hold Neighbors Night Out events in the summer. UC Davis, the ASUCD and the city of Davis work together on Davis Neighbors Night Out — and it doesn't happen until after the new academic year has begun, thus giving students the opportunity to participate.

After all, the goal is to bring students and their neighbors together. “The event is an informal opportunity for neighborhoods to increase familiarity and communication among neighbors by way of a block party,” reads the Davis Neighbors Night Out website.

“We believe that starting the academic year on a positive note will reduce the potential for misunderstandings or conflicts, by opening lines of communication among all residents.”

This year’s event, the sixth annual, is scheduled for Sunday, Oct. 9 — at the beginning of homecoming week.

The first Davis Neighbors Night Out in 2006 comprised 60 parties. The number exceeded 100 in each of the last two years, and the 2011 event will continue that trend, with more than 100 parties having been registered as of this week.

The party sponsors are planning a variety of activities, from brunch buffets and appetizer potlucks to ice cream socials and dinner potlucks.

People are welcome to hold their parties any time from noon to 9 p.m., and university, ASUCD and city officials will try to visit as many parties as possible. The Cal Aggie Marching Band-uh and Gunrock will also make the rounds.

Sign up to be a party sponsor.