The program began in 2008 and was designed to curb violence in communities plagued by gangs.
It was a fun night under the lights at Ramon Garcia Recreation Center in Boyle Heights, one of 32 locations throughout Los Angeles.
"I like it because it's kid friendly. You're not afraid to come out because you see a lot of kids here, a lot of adult supervision," parent Norma Rodriguez said.
From July 6 through Sept. 3, Wednesday to Saturday park hours are extended until midnight.
From arts and crafts to video games, there are lots of activities for kids.
Program officials said the numbers speaks volumes.
"Last year we saw about a 40 percent reduction in gang-related Part 1 crime for all 24 sites combined," said Alicia Avalos, the program's director. "It's true that people do feel safe in our surveys that we've done with the community member."
