MONTE VISTA — The eighth annual Rio Reels Film Festival will take place Friday, Nov. 15, from 6-9: p.m., at the Ski-Hi Banquet Hall in Monte Vista. 

Hosted by the Rio Grande Headwaters Restoration Project, the event will include dinner, drinks, and a selection of river — and water-related short films. This year’s films will include engaging stories from all around the world, including Peru and Pueblo, Colorado, and guest speaker State Senator Cleave Simpson will deliver remarks. 

The evening will include the showing of, ”Mirasol Looking at the Sun: A film about water, land and a way of life.” Award-winning director Ben Knight explores a national issue, magnified in the American West, around water scarcity, following a multi-generational Italian and Hispanic immigrant farming community living on “The Mesa” in Pueblo. The documentary sheds light on their history and heritage, each family sharing their agricultural lineage, one that transcends every aspect of their lives, shaping their culture and livelihood.  

Also, part of the event is a silent auction and door prizes including lodging, art, outdoor gear, clothing, and more. Advance tickets are available online for $30 and can be found by visiting riograndeheadwaters.org or searching Rio Reels Film Festival on Eventbrite. Tickets will also be sold at the door for $40. 

The Rio Grande Headwaters Restoration Project has been completing projects throughout the watershed for over 20 years. Funds raised from the event go directly towards these projects to improve water quality, wildlife habitat, recreation opportunities, and the overall river health. 

The event would not be possible without sponsors including American Rivers, Conejos Water Conservancy District, Cultivating Hearts, Robins Construction, RiverRestoration, San Luis Valley Irrigation District, Stephen Quiller, Stone’s Farm Supply, Cooley and Sons Construction, Colorado Potato Administrative Committee, and many other artists, individuals, and businesses who have generously sponsored this event and donated to the silent auction.