The Montezuma Land Conservancy will host the family-friendly 19th annual Harvest Beer Festival and Super Silent Auction at Parque de Vida on Sept. 9

“Each year, it is our only major fundraiser, and it benefits the Montezuma Land Conservancy,” said Marianne Mate, director of philanthropy and special events.

The silent auction is expected to feature more than 100 items and is a community favorite, according to Mate. The festival also includes music by The Lindells and the Afrobeatniks.

“There are a wide variety of items, which is why it is our ‘Super Silent Auction,’” she said.

A big-ticket item at this year’s auction will be a ride home in a firetruck provided by the Cortez and Dolores fire departments.

“It is a really fun family event, and kids activities are really fun,” Mate said. “Attendance is usually over 600 people.”

Breweries from Cortez and Mancos will serve up local brews in addition to some out-of-town varieties.

“It is a unique event because your ticket price includes unlimited tasting, so you don’t pay individually for beer once you get in the door,” Mate said.

Proceeds benefit the Montezuma Land Conservancy, which, as of August, has conserved over 44,000 acres of land in Montezuma, Dolores and San Miguel counties, Mate said.

“We work with willing local landowners in helping them find ways to conserve their land from development to keep it in agriculture or ranching,” Mate said.

Advance tickets are available online for $5 off regular price. Tickets at the gate will cost $35 and include for a collector glass and unlimited beer tasting. Tickets are $20 for nondrinkers and free for youths 15 and under, according to the website.

“Our motto for the event is ‘Drink beer, save land,’” Mate said.

Volunteer positions are available. For more information, contact Marianne Mate at 970-565-1664.