MUSIC, WINE, AND MORE: The Sourland Mountain Festival returns July 15 with a wide range of activities for all ages. Proceeds benefit the Sourland Conservancy. (Photo by Richard Paul)

On Saturday, July 15 from 3 to 8:30 p.m., the Sourland Conservancy will be hosting its 18th Annual Sourland Mountain Festival at Unionville Vineyards in Ringoes.

A VIP Experience will again be provided by The Ryland Inn, and will feature live music, local food, craft beer, wine and spirits, mountain history, and family activities. Proceeds will benefit the Sourland Conservancy, the local nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting the history and ecology of the Sourland Mountain region of Central New Jersey.

The festival offers music, food, fun, and views in the central Jersey region. This year’s event will offer a wide array of educational exhibits featuring the Conservancy’s partner organizations. The Cool Critters area will host farm animals and amphibians Guests can pet some of the critters, ask questions of naturalists and farmers, and watch live demonstrations.

The 90-square-mile Sourland region is home to the largest contiguous forest in Central New Jersey. It encompasses a complex ecosystem of forest, wetlands, and grasslands, and is home to a rich diversity of animal and plant species, many rare or endangered. The forest is especially important as a breeding area for migratory songbirds, particularly those who nest only in large, wooded areas.

Tickets are now available for the festival, with early bird pricing. Visit sourlandmountainfest.com/tickets.