12th Annual Chinatown Night Out

Chinatown Night Out is less about spectacle than the useful, lived-in side of neighborhood life. The 12th annual gathering sets up at Willie “Woo Woo” Wong Playground with more than 20 community resource booths, local officers and organizations sharing information on everything from scams and phone theft to personal safety. That practical focus is balanced by cultural performances, kids' activities, giveaways, a raffle and free boxed meals while supplies last, giving families plenty of reason to stick around rather than simply stopping by for information. This year's move to the playground's basketball court also puts the event in a more open, casual setting. It is free, open to everyone and runs from 4 to 7pm on September 9, making it an easy midweek outing for Chinatown residents and anyone who wants to spend time in the neighborhood while connecting with the people and groups that help keep it functioning.